| About Zero Energy Homes
Comparison of Zero Energy Homes vs. Standard
Construction Homes
Zero Energy
Homes:
- Provides economic
security with alternative sources for heat AC and
electricity – most or all of those costs are
included in the price of the home
- Generates solar
electricity, geothermal heat and cooling, and active
and passive solar heat
- Provides higher R
value thanks to rigid EPS insulation
- Offers 3 times the
sound resistance of standard construction
- Takes less time to
construct due to the use of SIPs
- Maintains high
structural strength and fire resistance due to the
use of steel in the SIPs
- Resists mold and
insects due to borated insulation
- Qualifies for
Energy Star mortgage
Standard
Construction Homes:
- Saddles homeowner
with steadily rising monthly bills for heat, AC and
electricity for the life of the home, in addition to
the purchase price of the home.
- Consumes
electricity, oil or gas at constantly increasing
prices ($$$)
- Delivers lower R value due to fiberglass insulation
- Offers poor sound
resistance – transmits loud noises
- Takes longer to
construct and requires more labor
- Provides low wind
resistance, which requires additional strapping,
labor and other costs
- Requires
time-consuming and weakening boring of studs/joists
for plumbing and electric
- Attracts mold,
termites, and other pests
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Look
for the USGBC Symbol
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a nonprofit
organization dedicated to increasing awareness of
sustainable buildings. Members include building owners,
real estate developers, architects, designers,
engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, and
building system manufacturers, among others. Look for
the USGBC symbol when researching sustainable building
and zero-energy homes. |
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Why Is Energy Star Important?
Energy Star homes cost less to heat in the winter and
cool in the summer – a significant savings for every
year you own the home. This in turn lowers the demand on
natural resources because Energy Star homes minimize
reliance on fossil fuel use. In addition, these homes
provide higher indoor air quality.
The bottom line is Energy Star homes are recognized for
greater value, lower operating costs, increased
durability, comfort and safety. |
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PATH
PARTNER
PATHnet is the central information source
for the Partnership for Advancing Technology
in Housing (PATH), a program supported by
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD). PATHnet offers a wealth
of tools and information to help you to
integrate advanced housing technologies into
your project. |
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