Real World Michigan: 12 Test Homes Examine the True Value of High Performance Building

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Las Vegas Convention Center, North 262, Level II
Track: High Performance & Energy Efficient Building
Continuing Education: NAHB – 1 hour, AIA - 1 LU hour
Level: Novice

In partnership with Dow Building Solutions, Cobblestone Homes undertook a five-year research project: an energy efficiency test community comprised of 12 occupied single-family homes in Midland, Michigan (Climate Zone 5). This real-world test represents the nation’s first active subdivision specifically designed to capture quantitative and qualitative data. Hear how the data collected is being used to combat misconceptions and educate builders and home buyers about the accessibility and affordability of achieving energy efficient homes. In addition to examining the cost to build, energy use and hygrothermal performance of the each of the models, you will also review the results of bi-annual occupant
surveys that provide insight to the value of high performance homes as reported by the families who live in them. By examining four varying building envelope strategies, you’ll leave with a better understanding of the high performance features you’ll want to include in your projects.

Speaker(s):
Brian Lieburn, Dow Building Materials-Solutions Division, Columbus, OH
Melissa Wahl, Cobblestone Homes LLC, Saginaw, MI