Zero Energy Multifamily Buildings: Three Case Studies

…providing a great starting point for heating and hot water. 15% of the energy use was reduced through building super insulated walls and ceiling. The zHome’s R-38 walls are twice…

Builder Blends Zero Energy with Montana Style

…generally use casement windows, because they are tighter than other window styles.” His earlier projects employed double-stud wall construction for thick insulation and airtight drywall (ADA) to reduce air leakage….

Affordable Zero Energy Homes Take Creative Collaboration

…Mehlschmidt home, the double-stud walls are filled with dense-pack cellulose insulation. Double-studs offer plenty of space for insulation, but Davenport became disenchanted with tilting up heavy assemblies or framing the…

Glossary of Zero Energy Terms

The Challenges and Opportunities of Exterior Air Sealing

…each stud where a sheathing joint will occur gives a good seal. Before standing up the wall, another bead, or better two beads, can be placed under the bottom plate…

Calif. Embraces Passive House for Zero Carbon Multifamily Housing

…causing wildfires, dangerous air quality, and widespread power shut-offs. A recent study funded by the California Public Utilities Commission highlights how Passive House (PH) design principles should be utilized in…

DOE Targets Air Leaks in Path to Zero Carbon

…accompanying dashboard. Typology studies like this have valued precedents in other countries, particularly in Europe, but this is the first-ever, national-level study of the US housing stock. Updated in 2022…

Design Strategies for Zero Energy Homes That Builders Will Thank You For

…materials, and never design walls where it is difficult to properly cover insulation. Pay particular attention to soffits, attics, bathtub surrounds, and fireplace enclosures. If you’re drawing double-stud walls, be…

Zero Energy Project Newsletter – May 2022

…and sustainable products make it easier for homeowners and builders to get homes on the path to zero – no matter where you live. Read More Double Stud Wall Simplified…

Redefining Healthy Homes in the Age of Climate Disruption

…combustibility of interior wall and ceiling supports and finishes, as well as to the exterior siding and roofing. For example, using metal studs instead of wood may offer more protection….

Zero Homes are Comparable in Cost to Standard Homes

Even though the energy efficient, high performance features of a zero energy home are slightly more expensive, any added cost can be kept to a minimum using several strategies. Doing…

Builder Profile: Solaire Homebuilders

…heat-recovery ventilation, and high-efficiency mechanical systems. Ten years ago, they adopted a high-R envelope strategy revolving around double-stud, wood-frame walls ranging from 8- to 12-inches thick. They also applied advanced…