Design/Build
September 25, 2018
Common Myths About Building Codes and Energy Efficiency
Facts speak louder than myths. Contrary to conventional thinking, this survey of building codes in the Northeast United States shows that energy-saving building codes don’t cost more or reduce construction activity.
Read ArticleSeptember 24, 2018
How to Save Money Building Affordable Zero Net Carbon Apartments
Giv Group just finished a zero energy affordable housing apartment project in Salt Lake City that cost less than a comparable building built to conventional energy standards. Now, they want to share what they learned so others can duplicate their accomplishment.
Read ArticleSeptember 23, 2018
My Zero Energy Retrofit Beats my 401(k)
This analysis, using standard business investment metrics, shows that a complete zero energy home retrofit can return 15% a year with zero risk. Beat that Wall Street!
Read ArticleJuly 20, 2018
Passive House Busts High Cost Myth
The first certified Passive House in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers more than super energy efficiency. It demonstrates that high-performance homes can be built for the same price as code-built homes.
Read ArticleJuly 16, 2018
Is Aerobarrier the Future of Air Sealing?
Imagine a world where a builder can set a precise level of building air tightness, pay one contractor to deliver it, and reach the same performance standard on every home. That world is here... today.
Read ArticleJuly 12, 2018
HVAC Design Strategies for High-Performance Homes
One payoff of a super insulated building envelope is a smaller heating and cooling system. Achieving the payoff requires HVAC contractors to plan and implement the project a bit differently than a typical one.
Read ArticleJune 19, 2018
Product Spotlight: Smart Energy Recovery Ventilation with CERV2
High-performance homes deserve high-performance ventilation. BuildEquinox now offers a second generation ventilation system with an integrated heat pump and sophisticated user-friendly controls.
Read ArticleJune 17, 2018
Imery Homes – A Systematic Approach to Zero Energy Home Construction
Making zero energy homes affordable requires a systematic approach that includes solid building science and thoughtful client relations. Learn more about how Imery Group has built a successful business in Georgia.
Read ArticleMay 23, 2018
The Zero Net Energy Primer: A Guide to the Future of Home Design
Designers and builders may need to make adjustments in their homes when California implements its upcoming zero energy building code for homes. Those adjustments are spelled out and illustrated in this new booklet. It’s a great guide for zero energy home design no matter where you live.
Read ArticleMay 22, 2018
The Future Looks Bright for Natural Gas in Earth Advantage Zero Energy Certified Homes
Third-party certifier, Earth Advantage, has evolved their zero energy home standards to make it easier for builders to include natural gas in their zero energy homes. Here’s what they did.
Read ArticleMay 17, 2018
Improving Efficiency of Existing Commercial Buildings Cost Effectively
A Colorado project shows how a PACE loan changed the calculus of energy efficiency investments for one leaseed commercial complex. Energy savings for this project exceed the payments, so property owners and tenants are cash flow positive immediately.
Read ArticleMay 14, 2018
ZERO Code: The Future Has Arrived
The time is now for zero energy commercial buildings. To that end, Architecture 2030 has developed a new international building code for commercial buildings allows jurisdictions in North America and beyond to establish zero energy as the new standard.
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