How to Design an Energy‑Efficient Home: Insulation, Air Sealing and Panelized Construction Explained
About this episode
Steve Tuma explains how to design an energy-efficient panelized home, focusing on insulation, air sealing, and practical building strategies.
Show Notes:“Green,” “sustainable,” “net‑zero,” and “solar‑ready” get thrown around a lot, but what do they actually mean when you’re designing and building a panelized home? In this episode, Steve breaks the concepts down into practical terms for owner‑builders. He explains how Landmark’s structural package already uses renewable, engineered wood products from regenerating forests, and how true energy efficiency goes far beyond just adding insulation—it requires designing the home so required insulation, ductwork, and mechanical systems actually fit and work as modeled, and then making sure they’re installed correctly. Steve walks through how window choices, air sealing, duct design, venting, and even small penetrations (hose bibs, outlets, doorbells) affect performance, and how Landmark’s plans incorporate energy‑code requirements while still staying within realistic budgets. He also clarifies the difference between “sustainable materials,” “green building,” “net‑zero homes,” and “solar‑ready” design, and shows how simple design moves like roof overhangs, orientation, and energy‑heel trusses can boost performance without exotic tech. Throughout, the focus stays on building a…
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