In the build series, we have examined what it takes to build an Energy Star ZERH (Zero Energy Ready Home) in the Minneapolis, MN, area. We have used a sworn construction statement developed for Blue Barn Construction using the 2×6 EcoSmart™ Stud wall system for a 1420 sq ft rambler built on a reclaimed residential lot.

The Build Series underscores the affordability of an Energy Star ZERH home when built with the 2×6 EcoSmart™ Stud wall system. The cost upgrade for the 2×6 EcoSmart™ Stud wall system for this build is ($1,458.50).  That is over 70% less than Continuous Insulation R20+5CI ($6,831.25) exterior wall system! The total upgrade costs for the example 1420 sq ft rambler Energy Star Zero Energy Ready Home are ($4,485.37), and that is less than the estimated upgrade cost for a continuous insulated wall system alone! This reassures you that your investment in an Energy Star Zero Energy Ready Home built with the EcoSmart™ Stud wall systems is a cost-effective energy saving choice.

For review, click on the links to see the posts for the entire Builder Series. Up first, what’s already covered by current Minnesota Energy code and common builder practices in the area.

Current code and builders’ standard practices.

Next, we moved on to the individual elements of the Energy Star ZERH program;

1. Water Heaters
2. High-efficiency lighting systems
3. Heating and cooling systems
4. Foundation Insulation
5. Attic/ceiling insulation
6. Windows
7. Cost Review

Some of these elements had upgrade costs, and some had no upgrade costs. Next up is what used to be the most expensive part of an Energy Star ZERH build: the 2012-2024 Energy Code, and why Minnesota is still using the 2012 National Energy Code with amendments: the upgraded insulation required for the exterior wall.

With the EcoSmart™ Stud exterior wall, we had to break it into 4 parts to cover all aspects of the EcoSmart™Stud wall system.

1. Part 1: Cost and complexity
2. Part 2: Insulation
3. Part 3: Resilience
4. Part 4: Embodied Carbon

By utilizing the thermally broken EcoSmart™ Studs, we have created a straightforward, cost-effective, highly insulated, and robust exterior wall system. This system not only enhances exterior wall insulation but also simplifies the construction process, providing a practical and efficient solution.

With the EcoSmart™ Stud exterior wall systems, an Energy Star ZERH single-family home becomes a “why not” choice rather than a “why” choice when looking to build a new home.