Energy Star SIP Cottage Granite Falls NC

Location: Granite Falls, NC

Project Information

Project Type: Residential, Affordable Housing
Manufacturer:
Builder: Howard Building Science
Design Professional:
Year Built: 2024

Performance

High Performance: No
HERS/EUI Index Score: 44
ACH50 - Blower Test Results: 2.76
kBtu/sq.ft./year:
CO2 lbs./sq.ft./year:

Awards/Certifications: DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, ENERGY STAR Certified, EPA Indoor AirPLUS

House Specifications: Two-bedroom, two-bath home with 1,600 square feet of conditioned space
Design Features: SIPs wall and roof construction, simple roof design, additional loft storage, and sloped ceilings

Read more about at:
SIPA Blog - Unlocking Affordability with SIPs: Case Studies in High-Performance Homes 
 
PROJECT DATA

• Layout: 2 bdrm, 1 bath, 1 fl, 800 ft²
• Climate: IECC 4A, mixed-humid
• Completed: January 2023
• Category: Affordable

MODELED PERFORMANCE DATA

• ERI: without PV 44
• Annual Energy Costs: without PV $900
• Annual Energy Cost Savings: (versus typical new homes) without PV $600
• Annual Energy Savings: without PV 5,800 kWh
• Savings in the First 30 Years: without PV $25,650

KEY FEATURES

• Walls: SIPs, R-26 total: closed-cell foam core. Exterior face of panel has an integrated coating for rain screen and water control.
• Roof: SIPs gable roof: exterior face of panel is coated OSB, taped at seams.
• Attic: Unvented, 5.5" R-40 SIPs with closed-cell spray foam core. 400 ft2 storage space.
• Foundation: Unvented crawlspace: concrete masonry unit, R-10 rigid insulation on interior of walls, 10-mil vapor barrier on ground.
• Windows: Double-pane windows, U=0.25, SHGC=0.19.
• Air Sealing: 2.76 ACH50; closed-cell foam sill gasket; flashing tape on panel seams; stretch tape and liquid flashing around windows and doors; all penetrations sealed with spray foam and liquid flash.
• Ventilation: ERV, distributed system. Sensors to monitor humidity, VOCs, smoke, carbon dioxide, and PM2.5 particulates.
• HVAC: Ductless mini-split heat pump, 11.1 HSPF, 26.3 SEER. Dehumidifier in enclosed crawlspace.
• Hot Water: Heat pump water heater, 50-gal, 3.75 UEF. Core plumbing design.
• Lighting and Appliances: ENERGY STAR appliances.
• Solar: None.
• Energy Management System: Ventilation system controlled by sensors that monitor indoor air quality.
• Other: Electric vehicle charging outlet. Part of a neighborhood of ZERH-certified affordable homes.

SUSTAINABILITY FEATURES

The Howard Building Science project, a component of the Duke St. Cottages development, highlights sustainable construction by employing Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) in innovative ways. This project demonstrates how SIPs contribute to sustainable building practices:

  • Energy Efficiency: This home was designed with a focus on maximizing energy efficiency, using SIPs for superior insulation and airtight seals that significantly reduce heating and cooling needs. The design meets U.S. DOE Zero Energy Ready Home standards, ensuring low energy consumption and a reduced environmental footprint.
  • Material Efficiency: The construction process emphasizes precise material usage with two-foot dimensions to minimize waste and promote sustainability. By incorporating SIPs, the project reduces the need for additional framing, contributing to a lower overall environmental impact.
  • High Performance: SIPs are used to create elevated storage spaces and high ceilings, adding both functionality and style to the home. The structural strength and thermal efficiency of SIPs ensure a comfortable, durable living environment, providing long-term benefits like reduced energy bills and improved indoor air quality.

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