Green Building Techniques: Superinsulation

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Superinsulation techniques can be used in new or retrofit construction.
Superinsulation techniques can be used in new or retrofit construction.
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Diagram: Figure 2 Larsen Truss.
Diagram: Figure 2 Larsen Truss.
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Diagram: Figure 1 double wall construction.
Diagram: Figure 1 double wall construction.
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Diagram: Figure 3 thick conventional wall.
Diagram: Figure 3 thick conventional wall.

As Lester Brown points out in this issue’s interview, the recent drop in the price of oil is a temporary situation. Eventually — certainly within the life span of a well-constructed home (and probably very much sooner) — that price is bound to rise.

The present economic breather, however, would seem to be an ideal time to build a new home. Mortgage rates are low, and building material costs are stable. Perhaps more important, though, energy-efficient green building techniques that have been in development for the last 15 years are now mature.

Green Building Techniques: Superinsulation

The next 15 years will no doubt see many more advances, but the intensive research and the trial-and-error practices of the last decade and a half have brought energy-conserving design to a remarkable position today. The basic principles and the practical methods are now established. Better yet, this understanding has brought the language of design down from lofty mathematics to everyday “rules of thumb” — guidelines to build by.

Superinsulation’s Wide Application

  • Published on Sep 1, 1986
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