It took research to build this house

When Matt Tulio purchased a house in Crown Hill last year, he demolished it to build an environmentally friendly structure that features the latest in "green" technology.

Tulio had done his research on ways to build green.

"It's been an experience," he said.

As a result of doing his homework, Tulio learned about new products and says he was sometimes overwhelmed. Now he wants to show other people how to construct a green house.

With 30 years of experience in construction, doing additions and remodels, Tulio, joined by his wife Marla, have done 90 percent of the work themselves.

Standing on a dusty floor, surrounded by wallboard and power equipment, Tulio points to the floor where a radiant flow heating system has been installed in the bamboo floor. The heat is powered by solar energy and will provide 75 percent of the energy the home needs in a year for a four-person family.

"We are saving 49 percent on heat over what the code says you have to have," said Tulio.

He said the old home was an "inefficient box." It was so dark, lights had to be turned on in the day.

Windows bring in plenty of sun. "It was important to provide as much daylight as possible," said Tulio.

An on-demand water heater is rated at 92 percent efficiency and only heats water then it is needed. A heat recovery ventilator in the ceiling brings in fresh air and absorbs stale air.

Everything removed from the house has been put back to use in some form.

Tulio gave away some of the old wood to be recycled for other projects. The former home's trusses are now installed in a barn in Lacey. The plumbing fixtures were donated to Habitat for Humanity.

Drywall that was removed has been ground up and recycled. The asphalt roof has been recycled in Snohomish. Pieces of concrete from the driveway are now used for a retaining wall in the backyard.

What did Tulio use for insulation in the walls? He purchased denim, old blue jeans that were ground up.

The roof is made of a synthetic plastic material and will last 50 years. Rainwater is filtered back into the ground. Only 1 percent of the water goes into the street.

The utility wires, including phone and cable television are underground. Drought tolerant plants were selected for low maintenance.

"It's just learning some new ways to do things. It costs more now, but will save in the long run," said Tulio.

The Tulio's plan to sell the house when it is completed. The selling price will be $700,000.

"My wife insists we have to stay one night here," said Tulio.