Zero energy doesn't mean a house uses no energy, it means the house combines on-site power generation with efficient structural materials to return a net zero utility cost. By producing green energy and avoiding fossil fuel consumption we create a living space that leaves little or no carbon footprint.

The H.R Weaver Building team has been researching and designing the ZERO ENERGY HOME for nine months based on a theory that the home could be heated by a light bulb. The result was a plan for a 2,300-square-foot home with 15 rooms and a two-car garage nestled on a 5-acre lot.

All Aboard

The ZEH story continues. The trusses have been installed and the roof is now dry. Our windows and doors are in place. The staircases have been installed and our garage and porch floors are now poured. Our MEP contractors are in place roughing in the electric, plumbing and HVAC systems. The roofing and siding should be showing up any day now. The cabinetry has been ordered and the final bit of rough carpentry is being completed.

We are working on finalizing the solar array for ordering. The rainwater harvesting project is also underway.

Next stop…Greenhouse. We are designing a greenhouse/gardening shed combo to compliment the garden and orchard. There are so many different ways that this could go. The idea is to balance the homeowners’ needs with cost and aesthetics. Not too mention the small issue of time.

All in all, this project has been coming together like it was out of a textbook. Our suppliers and trade contractors have been exceptional. Our own crews have also been doing a phenomenal job.

Follow along as we continue our journey to Zero Energy…

Wednesday, April 15, 2009