Turning a barn into an energy-smart home
A century-old barn gets the ultimate makeover - with lots of energy-smart technology.
Builders enlist help from energy raters and performance consultants to create the most energy-efficient house plans. This process starts with the framing, by looking for gaps and holes which occur due to wood not being uniform.
In phase two, they check insulation to ensure there is enough and that all the walls and the attic are properly covered.
In the final phase, devices are used to perform a multitude of tests to measure the energy efficiency of the house before the homeowner closes on their new home. Many energy-efficiency problems can be fixed by the builder before the closing date.
In this video: See how involving an energy rater during the planning phase ensures an energy efficient outcome for a new home.
A century-old barn gets the ultimate makeover - with lots of energy-smart technology.
Using universal design principals, your home can adapt to your changing lifestyle needs.
A geodesic design uses interconnected triangles to create a strong, environmentally friendly structure.
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
Your roof and attic play the most crucial role in your home's energy efficiency system, reducing your energy costs during the winter and summer.
More builders are offering sustainable choices in new home construction. Find out what's available and how it impacts the earth and the bottom line.
Habitat for Humanity is an organization that provides simple, sturdy homes. Learn how energy efficiency is a key factor in building these homes.
A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.
New, energy-efficient homes need new solutions to circulate and ventilate the air inside the home.