The Journal of Light Construction has assembled an all-star team of national building and energy experts to help you understand energy efficient construction methods and apply them to your new construction and remodeling projects. This practical book describes in detail the proven field-tested techniques that are both cost- effective and resource-efficient. Many energy-efficient building techniques are overly complicated. They're costly. And they frequently fail to deliver the promised energy performance. In contrast, this hands-on book from JLC cuts through the confusion and identifies the best building techniques and materials to help you achieve superior energy performance in all your projects. Without breaking the bank.

Passive is the new green. Passive Houses—well insulated, virtually airtight buildings—can decrease home heating consumption by an astounding 90 percent, making them not only an attractive choice for prospective homeowners, but also the right choice for a sustainable future. The Greenest Home showcases eighteen of the world's most attractive Passive Houses by forward-thinking architects such as Bernheimer Architecture, Olson Kundig Architects, and Onion Flats, among many others. Each case study consists of a detailed project description, plans, and photographs. An appendix lists helpful technical information. Including a mix of new construction and retrofit projects built in a variety of site conditions, The Greenest Home is an inspiring sourcebook for architects and prospective homeowners, as well as a useful tool for students, and builders alike.

This book, written by two authoritative figures in the area of energy technology, is the first to thoroughly describe in simple, clear language the technology known as superinsulation. Appropriate for anyone involved in residential construction and for students of engineering technology, it provides a conceptual understanding of the superinsulated house as well as details for assembling the construction elements of such a system. Includes over 250 photos and architectural drawings.

Sue Roaf is famed for her approach to design and her awareness of energy efficiency. Here she reveals the concepts, structures and techniques that lie behind the realization of her ideals. By using her own house as a case study, Roaf guides the reader through the ideas for energy-efficient design or 'eco-design'. Now in its fourth edition, the bestselling Ecohouse continues to be both a technical guide and an inspiration for thousands of architects, designers and eco-builders all over the world. Ecohouse provides design information about the latest low-impact materials and technologies, showcasing the newest and best ‘green’ solutions. Revised and updated, this edition also includes new case studies inspiring readers with more real-life examples of how to make an ecohouse work.