Insulated concrete forms
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
Turning a barn into an energy-smart home
A century-old barn gets the ultimate makeover - with lots of energy-smart technology.
In this video: A contractor and homeowner share how they turned their vision for a barn house into a unique, energy efficient home.
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Historic preservation
A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.
Talk to your utilities
Before you break ground on a new house, give your utility companies a call. They can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and construction delays.
Building an energy-smart house
Finding an energy-smart builder
An energy-smart builder will help you make the right choices for your family and lifestyle.
Structural insulated panels
Structural insulated panels, also called SIPs, foam-core panels or stress-skin panels, are significantly more airtight than stud walls.
Air quality and ventilation in new homes
New, energy-efficient homes need new solutions to circulate and ventilate the air inside the home.
New home comfort issues
Geodesic domes
A geodesic design uses interconnected triangles to create a strong, environmentally friendly structure.