Building Sciences
Seeing the Light with Building Science
High Performance Lighting is a value differentiator
Lighting is sometimes an afterthought in new home building, left until the trim-out phase. But emerging technology is forcing builders to look at lighting as a system, just like the HVAC system. In turn, these developments are opening up opportunities for builders to differentiate the homes they offer through high-efficiency lighting systems. Today, High Performance Lighting doesn’t just save energy and money, it also has other appeal.
5 Hot Spots for Poor Quality
Reduce costly repairs by using building science to do the job right the first time.
It’s a rare home builder who doesn’t claim to offer a quality product. But the definition of “quality” is changing, and there will be real costs for builders who don’t keep up. Legislation is making building codes tougher and energy standards higher. Meanwhile, quality issues may be cutting into your organization’s bottom line more than you realize.
Building a Net-Zero Home
Lab Home explores ways for production builders to offer affordable, energy-efficient houses.
Changing building codes and consumer expectations have builders feeling pressure from all sides. These forces are pushing builders to reduce costs while also improving their homes’ performance and quality. It’s a tough place to be, but it’s also an opportunity. Right now, building higher performance homes can help a builder stand out from the crowd and gain market share.
Building Science Is Key to Success
All builders can benefit from knowing more about high-performance construction.
At the Housing Leadership Summit in May, I hosted a panel discussion with Chris Schoonmaker of S&A Homes, C.R. Herro of Meritage Homes and John Friesenhahn of Imagine Homes — all high-performance builders — on “Seizing Energy Efficiency as a Competitive Weapon.” I was struck by how packed the session was — standing room only.I’ve seen full sessions at these events when the topic is capital, land or design trends, but never when its
Stop Pontificating on Green Building and Start Documenting Performance
As green codification expands, builders will shift from showcasing sustainability to promoting savings.