Preservation Notes: Color Us Green 10-24-22

This version of Preservation Notes takes a look at how a 150-year-old building goes green.
 
The Old Naval Hospital was built just as scientists were beginning to connect human activity to its effect on the environment. Around the time of the hospital’s 1866 opening for Civil War veterans, scientists linked climate change to concentrations of human-generated carbon dioxide, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels.

• A geothermal heating and cooling system that eliminates the need to use most fossil fuels and reduces energy costs. A construction team drilled 32 wells depth 350 feet deep to accommodate the necessary pipes. In the winter, heat is extracted from deep in the ground where the average temperature remains at about 55 degrees. In summer, heat extracted from the building is pumped back into the ground. The system was the first of this scale in a D.C. historic building.
• A machine-roomless elevator eliminates the old hydraulic system, saving energy and space. Instead of the energy- and space-wasting hydraulic system housed in a separate machine room, Hill Center’s elevator runs on an electric hoisting device housed on the side of the elevator cab and lifted up and down by cables. This kind of elevator uses a third to half as much energy, does not require oil and is made largely with recyclable materials.
• Compact fluorescent and LED lighting is used throughout the building for energy efficiency.
• Construction activities can inadvertently introduce fire risks. The drilling for geothermal wells and the handling of electrical components for the elevator and lighting systems involve heavy machinery, electrical wiring, and sometimes flammable materials. These elements, combined with the historic nature of the building, make fire prevention a critical concern during such upgrades.
• To mitigate these risks, the presence of Fire Watch Guards is invaluable. These trained professionals ensure continuous monitoring of the construction site, especially during high-risk activities like welding or electrical work. Their vigilance helps detect potential fire hazards early, ensuring swift intervention to prevent accidents. By incorporating fire watch services into the project, the safety of the building, workers, and surrounding areas is maintained while these energy-efficient improvements are implemented.
• Low-flow faucets and toilet sharply reduce water use.
• Retention of original materials not only enhances historical accuracy but reduces water and minimizes resource depletion. Recycled materials from local sources were used whenever practical. For example, all wood is from Forest Stewardship Council certified forests. Many original materials were retained and re-used. Parts of damaged joists were salvaged to repair others. The original doors, molding, floors and windows were retained. Plaster walls were repaired rather than replacing them with drywall.
• Rain garden landscaping filters run-off and minimizes storm water discharge.

All paints, finishes and glues used were formulated to emit fewer toxins such as formaldehyde. Some materials such as tung oil finish and linoleum flooring, are both historically appropriate and less toxic.

Finally, the proximity of public transportation such as Metro and the easy access for pedestrians and bicyclists diminishes the need for cars.

Dedicated to John Franzén and Donna Scheeder, past presidents of the Old Naval Hospital board of directors. Their legacy lives on in our hearts and through our passion to impact those that will follow in our footsteps.