What do you recommend about the use of structural insulated panel systems and insulating concrete forms for the building frame on a new home?
One system is not better than another from an energy perspective. All building systems (standard wood frame, SIPS, etc.) enable higher levels of insulation than code minimums. In choosing between systems, ask the builder to provide information on alterations and additions that can be made in the future. Some building systems cost less in material but more in labor. Some systems cost more in materials and provide a faster construction process that reduces construction loan costs. Builders should be able to provide a cost per square foot of wall that is in your plans. Take that cost per square foot and divide it by the r-value that you will have in each of the plans. This will give you the cost per square foot per r-value. Some additional resources: Search for “Hemphill Duluth house energy” at the Minnesota Public Radio website. The first is an example of a stick-framed home that requires only 25 percent of the energy a new standard home. Passive House Institute US has a number of articl
