Green home construction
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.
Some call it a "dome home," but the technical term is a geodesic dome.
A geodesic design uses triangles to create a super-strong sphere structure. The shape encloses the most amount of space with the least amount of materials, making these homes very economical and earth-friendly.
The most famous geodesic dome in the world is "Spaceship Earth" at Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park.
The freestanding dome shape allows tremendous flexibility in the placement of walls and the size and shape of rooms. Nooks and crannies can be used for storage and play space.
The high open ceiling provides great ventilation and bright sunlight all day long. In the summer, warm air rises along the curved walls and escapes through windows in the top of the dome, providing natural air conditioning.
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.
Structural insulated panels, also called SIPs, foam-core panels or stress-skin panels, are significantly more airtight than stud walls.
This kitchen remodel features a new window, energy-efficient lighting, new appliances and side-wall insulation.
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.
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
Using the sun's stored energy to heat your home reduces your conventional energy consumption.
When building your new home, don't forget about the importance of energy-conserving products like furnaces, air conditioners and appliances.
Check out a new neighborhood concept and see how one builder is changing the way homes are built with a goal to use zero energy.