Installing Windows on an Exterior-insulated, Tight House

South facing windows

Windows add immense value to a property. If installed correctly, the occupants enjoy natural light, views of mother nature, and controlled ventilation. But if the window is installed  incorrectly, the occupant will endure increased energy consumption, uncomfortable drafty conditions, and premature wall failure. Windows are an essential element to every building and the installation is … Read more

Utilizing an HRV System for Ventilation in My Energy Efficient Home

Ventilation Duct Work

The extremely tight envelope of my home is designed to prevent air from leaking in or out. That’s why I installed an HRV system to mechanically send stale air out and bring fresh air in.  When I tell people about my continuous insulation and air tight home design, I often hear, “but the house needs … Read more

Laying Hardwood Flooring on Second Story with No Subfloor

Rift Sawn Oak Flooring - No Subfloor

When building a two-story home, it’s standard to put a subfloor down during the building process, and put the finished flooring (whether it be hardwood, carpet, tile, etc.) down toward the end of the project. I chose to ditch the subfloor altogether, and use one layer of hardwood as both my structure and my finished … Read more

Using XPS Foam and Polyiso Insulation on My Energy-Efficient Home

Exterior XPS Foam Insulation

In an energy-efficient home, the right insulation details are critical. I have a continuous layer of insulation around my entire building envelope. I used multiple layers of XPS foam on the walls and in the foundation, and used polyiso on the roof. Read on to learn more about my design, product selection and installation. We … Read more

My Energy-efficient, Healthy, Modern Home Being Built in Hilliard, Ohio

Howdy! If you live in or around Old Hilliard there’s a good chance you’ve been past my new job site on Wayne Street. You probably even slowed down after seeing two bearded guys in kilts. I have designed an energy-efficient, healthy, functional, modern home for my family and I, and am now in the process … Read more

Water and Air Control Layer in My Energy-Efficient, Healthy Home

CCW-705 Air Control

One extremely important detail on my new home is the water and air control layer. It is continuous around the entire house, from the foundation to the roof. I plan to have very little air infiltration, which means cleaner healthier air, lower heating and cooling bills, no bugs and a more durable structure. As I’ve … Read more

My Unique Framing Technique: Energy-efficient, Strong and Studless

I want my home to stand the test of time. My non-traditional framing technique is one way I will ensure that happens. My framing details were designed not only for strength and durability, but also for energy-efficiency. Learn more about my framing detail, and why I chose this unique method. When you think of framing … Read more