Decoding Building Requirements

Trombe wall on the interior of a home

Using the sun's stored energy to heat your home reduces your conventional energy consumption.

Utility worker with an electric meter

Before you break ground on a new house, give your utility companies a call. They can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and construction delays.

Adjustable height kitchen sink

Using universal design principals, your home can adapt to your changing lifestyle needs.

Building materials, blueprints and paint chips

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.

Megan standing in front of the barn home

A century-old barn gets the ultimate makeover - with lots of energy-smart technology.

Graphic of heating and cooling circulating through a house

Our four-part series explores how to handle comfort issues in a new home.

Energy rater performing analysis on a front door

An energy rater can help make your new home more energy-efficient through every stage of the construction process.

Volunteers joining hands

Habitat for Humanity is an organization that provides simple, sturdy homes. Learn how energy efficiency is a key factor in building these homes.

Two people walking into a new home

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.

Decoding building requirements