How We Built The New American Home 2021
A first-person account of the annual show home’s construction
Is Your Problem-Solving Like Playing Whac-A-Mole?
Up your problem-solving game with these steps for process improvement
Mitigate Cracks With the Right Detailing
Creating adequate separation between materials is critical to mitigating cracks (and worse) along cementitious surfaces
Net Zero Energy: The Ultimate Z.E.N. Home's Comfort Solution
The Ultimate Zero Energy Now Home took a team approach to conquer aggressive performance and cost goals and deliver optimum indoor comfort.
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Moisture Management
Waterproofing Showers, Part 2: Site-Built Pans
Pay attention to these details to properly waterproof site-fabricated shower pans
Waterproofing Showers, Part 1: Preformed Pans
Fix these three mistakes to mitigate problems with prefabricated shower pans
Solar
Net Zero Energy: The Ultimate Z.E.N. Home's Solution for Solar
The Ultimate Zero Energy Now Home takes a holistic approach to optimizing investments in renewable solar energy at production scale
Healthy Homes
Net Zero Energy: The Ultimate Z.E.N. Home's Indoor Air Quality System
The Ultimate Zero Energy Now Home stretches the boundaries of a fully integrated indoor air quality system to address health concerns
Construction
Net Zero Energy: The Ultimate Z.E.N. Home's Wall Assembly
The Ultimate Zero Energy Now Home proves there’s more than one way to deliver a high-performance wall
Sales + Marketing
Become the Big Fish: How to Seize Tier 2 and 3 Market Opportunities
Builders can use this checklist to dominate Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets that offer potential
Framing + Building Envelope
How to Frame Walls That Combat Moisture
A pair of recent research studies reveal best practices—and a new assembly sequence—to combat moisture in framed walls
Construction Quality
How to Avoid Cracks in Post-Tensioned Concrete Slab Foundations
How home builders can avoid cracks in a post-tensioned slab-on-grade foundation by preventing certain errors during the installation process
HVAC
Why Compact Duct Layouts for HVAC Make Sense
The approach shown here for HVAC duct layouts is a win-win: It saves money and reduces homeowner complaints about indoor comfort
Quality Matters
Construction Quality Assurance Program Fundamentals
Take these steps to create an effective QA program that yields lasting results
