This is what an NFRC label looks like.  Listen now at http://GetRatedNow.com/radio for why this is important.

We’re talking about insulated concrete form live on Home Energy Solutions Radio.  Here about how we are building a 5-star energy efficient home out of ICF, and what we are putting on the exterior.

This is what ICF, Insulated Concrete Forms look like being installed.

Listen to us live at http://GetRatednow.com/radio.

Kevin McLain of Dow educates builders on DOW SIS

It’s no secret that the new residential construction Industry has faced some tough times during this recession. Shoot, there are some economists and pundits who would argue that it was this sector which began the domino effect, leading us to where we are now.

But, as they say, you can’t blame the player, instead blame the game (financing, demand, etc…). How can a new home contractor be blamed for meeting demand for new homes? Yet, I digress.

Currently, the Austin Market is considered one of the strongest in the nation for residential construction, yet even here New-Home Starts are down nearly 50%. But, you wouldn’t get that pessimistic impression if you attended the DOW SIS product seminar, hosted at our BMC West facility in Cedar Park. Over 20 independent contractors were present to learn more about DOW’s newest line of Styrofoam SIS structural sheathing.

The contractors in attendance recognized one important fact that has been quietly observed during the recession: homebuyers want quality, energy efficient homes. And, to that end, DOW SIS is one product that can help a home stand out. That’s because the SIS sheathing is a third of the weight of OSB, provides an R-3 or R-5.5 insulated value, and acts as a water barrier. 

 What caught my attention was that even the sector which was hardest hit by the recession, there was hope, and in fact, a keen interest in ways to meet consumer and homeowner demand for more energy efficient homes. That’s because, despite the housing collapse, demand has been growing for energy efficient construction practices. And this is for both new and existing homes. The builders who attended the product seminar/showcase didn’t show up because they were seeking ways to cut their production costs, but rather, for ways to help reach the demands of homeowners and potential customers who want reduced utility bills and efficient homes.

 Other products were also presented by BMC West and Home Energy Solutions staff which could help builders significantly cut energy usage in their home, while at the same time add a only a small cost to their bottom line. And this is where things took off. Products mentioned included:

With the energy savings and homeowner demand for energy efficiency, you would be foolish to not consider SDHW on your next home.

• Solex Solar Attic Fan System
• 3M Window Film
•  Thermal Infrared Imaging
•  High Efficiency Windows and Doors
• Chromagen Solar Water Heating System

 In fact, the demand was so overwhelming, BMC West and Home Energy Solutions will be putting on similar product education seminars for the above mentioned products over the next several months. If this interests you, go to GetRatedNow.com to leave us your email and continue to check us out for the latest green building news, energy efficient products, advice, and information.

We’d love to get your input on our products, services, and information. Leave comments, share these blog postings with friends, and spread the word about all this “low hanging” fruit we’re serving up.

There is a lot of confusion about what exactly constitutes “Green Building”. Builders and remodelers are faced with choosing between competing certifications such as the National Association of Home Builders’(NAHB) new National Green Building Standard, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system.

While LEED has been around for longer, it was initially designed for commercial buildings and is being updated to include residential. The NAHB program, however, was designed specifically for residential builders and is better suited for their needs. The Pro Builder website has 2 great articles explaining the programs and summarizing the differences.

Make sure to read Green Goods: What’s in a Key Section of NAHB’s New Green Building Standard and Green Goods: How LEED for Homes Most Affects Dealers.