In this video, Bob Brock and Craig Bushon tell you exactly why it is so important to properly insulate your attic, and explain how this will help your HVAC system run better, cleaner and more efficiently.

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Take a look inside the attic of one of the Streetman Homes in Mueller, as Craig Bushon demonstrates why this is a great way to build your new home.

Homeowners Deserve Answers
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Tell us what you do to make your home more energy efficient.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Lawmakers have their eye on more than cash-for-clunkers and improving the fuel efficiency of the American transportation fleet. 

 
That’s because the built environment, that is, how much energy is consumed by residential and commercial buildings, constitutes the largest source of energy consumption in the U.S. Therefore, if we make our homes and buildings more efficient, we make a create a cleaner, greener America.

 
The current climate bill (Waxman-Markey) which will be debated, discussed, and amended in the Senate floor later this year, has one section which every builder should be aware of: Section 201, covering national building energy codes.

What are these proposed national building codes?
• in  2010, 30% below the baseline energy code (IECC 2006 and ASHRAE 90.1-2004)
• in 2014-2015, 50% below the baseline energy code, and  
• every three years after, out to 2029-2030, an additional 5% reduction

Source: @2009 2030, Inc./ Architecture 2030

What does this mean for the builder? Well, Austin and its surrounding communities should fare better than other locations and states which currently lack statewide commercial and residential building codes. That’s because Texas does have a statewide Building and Energy Codes (IBC 2003 and IECC 200). And many communities already have adopted the IECC 2006 Energy Code. Although Central Texas builders are familiar with Energy Codes, they are going to have to become familiar with energy efficient home building.

If the above codes pass, then every new home constructed in the U.S. will have to be more energy efficient than what the current Energy Star for New Homes label requires.  If you still think that “green building” is a passing fad, think again.

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.