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 In March 2008, OPAL began construction on a 7.1 acre parcel located across from the medical clinic on Mt. Baker Road. The neighborhood is designed in clusters of 5 to 8 homes with common open space screening one cluster
from another.
With every neighborhood, OPAL strives to incorporate more "green" features. The Wild Rose Meadow Neighborhood includes:
- Maximizes day light potential (balanced with privacy) to reduce electricity consumption.
- Metal roofing for durability and reduced maintenance expenses.
- Hardie cement-board siding (“lap”, board and batten, and shingle accent) includes recycled content, improved durability, and reduces maintenance/replacement cost.
- Panelized (wall) framing in controlled “factory” reduces waste, assures protected materials storage – reducing opportunity for mold/mildew within wall cavity.
- Blown-in-Blanket (formaldehyde-free) insulation – R-21 exceeds code.
- ¾” plywood sub floor (not OSB) reduces off-gassing.
- Engineered-wood flooring (refinish-able) on main floor is more durable than carpet and reduces allergen/dust mite potential.
- Option of 100% wool carpet (second floor and stairs of 4-bdrm homes) provides “green” and durable possibility for quieter homes.
- Marmoleum (linoleum) in wet areas (kitchen, bath, laundry) greener than vinyl sheet flooring.
- All-plywood cabinet boxes are durable, with no off-gassing.
- Post-formed countertop reduces possibility of leaks (under back-splash) and water damage.
- Toto maxi-flush toilet and reduced-flow fixtures reduce water consumption.
- Noritz on-demand propane water heater saves energy (and water).
- ConvectAir (radiant electric) wall mounted heaters (LivRm/DR) are quiet, efficient and eliminate fan-blown dust.
- Propane fireplace installed to provide back-up to electric heat (in case of power outages) and ambience for homeowners’ enjoyment.
- Energy Star rated appliances.
- Reclaimed water (roof runoff) is available for irrigation.
- Stub-outs for future option of Photovoltaic (electricity) and solar water (pre) heating capability.
- “Energy Detective” installed to monitor (electric) energy use.
- Lighting designed for CFL’s where possible and appropriate.
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