Many construction options exist to build homes which comply with energy code requirements. Dow Building Solutions partnered with Cobblestone Homes to build case study, single family research houses in Midland, Michigan (climate zone 5) in 2011 to compare the performance of four building energy efficiency strategies. Energy code compliance strategies ranged from 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), 2012 IECC, and beyond 2012 IECC high performance enclosures. A total of twelve houses were built for this case study, with three house plans replicated for each of the four energy efficient strategies. All twelve homes are in very close proximity with a similar geographic orientation and will remain occupied through the multiyear study period.

This paper analyzes the cost and benefit of each enclosure construction method, plus a comparison of overall energy consumption. HVAC equipment energy use was separated from plug loads to understand its impact on the entire energy use of the homes.

Additionally, this paper addresses durability and moisture concerns raised about some high performance envelope strategies. Hygrothermal performance comparisons of the above grade and below grade walls was measured by relative humidity, temperature, and moisture content instruments installed in each house. This data was used to evaluate relative durability risks associated with each energy performance strategy and construction.

Presented at Thermal Performance of Exterior Envelopes of Whole Buildings XII, December 2013