The years 2019 and 2020 brought a mixed picture for energy efficiency in home building. On one side, states and cities pushed forward with ambitious new codes and programs. On the other, federal rollbacks threatened to undo years of progress. For builders, architects, and homeowners alike, understanding these shifts is essential for making informed decisions […]
The International Builders Show (IBS) and Greenbuild represent two of the most important gatherings for professionals in the construction industry. These trade shows bring together manufacturers, builders, architects, and researchers to showcase the latest innovations in building materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable design. For those unable to attend in person, understanding the standout products and
Radiant heat transfer is one of the three fundamental mechanisms of heat flow, yet it remains the most misunderstood by builders and homeowners alike. While conduction and convection rely on physical contact or a fluid medium, radiation works across empty space at the speed of light. A striking example of this phenomenon can be observed
Green building certification programs have transformed the construction industry by establishing measurable benchmarks for sustainability. Programs like LEED, BREEAM, and others provide clear frameworks that reward energy efficiency, material selection, and site stewardship. Yet there is a less discussed challenge that even the most well-intentioned projects face: project information creep, where the original vision slowly
When we flush a toilet, most of us do not think about what happens to the nutrients we just sent down the drain. In the world of sustainable building, there is growing interest in a different approach: separating urine at the source and using it as a fertilizer. This practice, championed by organizations like the
The construction industry depends on a complex network of specialized manufacturers supplying everything from structural components to finishing materials. When a critical production facility suffers a catastrophic event, the effects cascade through the entire supply chain, affecting builders, contractors, and homeowners alike. The 2012 experience of Serious Energy, a California based energy efficiency company, illustrates
Water-resistive barriers (WRBs) form a critical component of the building envelope, yet they are often misunderstood or improperly installed even by experienced builders. When the Green Building Advisor encyclopedia published its dedicated article on water-resistive barriers in 2013, it brought together decades of building science knowledge on how to keep water out of wall assemblies.
Across the United States, local governments are discovering that green building incentive programs offer a powerful way to accelerate sustainable construction without imposing new mandates. By offering rebates on permit fees, fast-tracked plan reviews, and public recognition for certified green projects, cities and counties are making it financially attractive for builders and property owners to
The push toward net zero residential construction has gained meaningful traction in recent years, and programs like the Connecticut Zero Energy Challenge offer a window into how builders, buyers, and policymakers are navigating this shift. Launched by the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund, the Challenge invited builders to construct homes that meet rigorous energy performance standards,
Homeowners exploring metal roofing options often encounter compelling promises from manufacturers about dramatic energy savings. The Metal Roofing Alliance, for instance, claims that a cool metal roof can reduce energy costs by 25 percent compared to a dark gray asphalt shingle. But how much of this is genuine building science versus clever marketing? When a
