Decoding Building Requirements

Insulated concrete forms in the ground

An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.

Modular home assembly in a factory

Modular homes are built in a factory under controlled conditions, then shipped to the homesite and placed on a permanent foundation.

Mom and daughters playing in leaves

When building your new home, don't forget about the importance of energy-conserving products like furnaces, air conditioners and appliances.

Trusses in an attic

Your roof and attic play the most crucial role in your home's energy efficiency system, reducing your energy costs during the winter and summer.

Boy and grandmother on front porch

A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.

Pete and Megan talking with homeowners

Hear from real homeowners and builders who made energy efficiency a priority.

Graphic of heating and cooling circulating through a house

Our four-part series explores how to handle comfort issues in a new home.

Man installing steel framing

You have energy efficient and sustainable options when it comes to framing your new home.

Geodesic dome home

A geodesic design uses interconnected triangles to create a strong, environmentally friendly structure.

Decoding building requirements