New build in Wisconsin: insulation and framing options?
Ulfhednar
| Posted in Green Building Techniques on
Hey folks,
I’m looking to build a new house in a 6A climate. It’ll be fairly modest in size (<1900 sqft, 3BR), and am hoping to be < $160/sqft… so passivhaus is likely out of question. What are some fiscally reasonable framing/insulation options to get close to PGH standard? Larsen trusses seem like they wouldn’t be too bad (framing being a low-cost labor & cellulose being a cheaper material). Not sure if there are concerns of drying in a place that has such extreme seasonal temperatures though. I’m pretty new to all of this, so toss me some ideas. TIA!
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Replies
Sean,
Start with these four articles:
How to Design a Wall
Martin’s Pretty Good House Manifesto
Green Building for Beginners
Building a Low-Cost Zero-Energy Home
You can build a net zero energy home or PGH on a modest budget if you set that goal and make smart decisions towards that outcome. When your builder says to increase the square footage to 2500 for better resale value, say no. When your family says to put hot tubs in each of your bathrooms, say no.
Keep in mind, there are many other factors that will seriously impact your budget besides framing/insulation. Site work (excavation, well, septic, etc.) was one of the biggest surprises for us.
If you don't have a builder lined up that has experience with techniques like exterior foam/mineral-wool, you may want to lean towards a double stud wall. Read the articles that Martin linked to and stick to the principles.
You should also consider doing some of the work yourself at that budget goal. My wife and I had ZERO building experience before our recent home build and we did this: all interior trim, painting, finished concrete & wood floors, installed RTA cabinets, all interior doors, helped with siding, sod & finish landscaping, and much more.
Sean: Cost per square foot is not usually a useful number, because everyone has a different view of what should be included. You're better off with a total project budget, including everything you'll need to have a finished home, including appliances, furniture, etc.
Brian suggests a double-stud wall if your builder hasn't done exterior insulation. That was our situation and our builder had no trouble with the double stud concept.
If you spend more on the basic building envelope, you can spend less on a heating system. You can always add a stone countertop later, but adding insulation or better air sealing after the build is costly and difficult.
Slabs are cheaper than basements. Concrete makes a nice finish floor.
Even if solar isn't in the budget, orient the house so it can be added later. Running some conduit from the roof to carry the solar wiring isn't a bad idea, but consult with a solar installer.
Look for reclaimed foam for under the slab.
Think hard about window locations. Fewer, better windows may be a place to save money. Windows are costly to frame and install. Put windows where they enhance views. All else being equal, minimize north side windows. Fixed windows are cheaper than openable.
You can spend a fortune on plumbing and light fixtures. Or not.