The way a home is built, has gone unchanged for generations. Manufacturing of trees into homes is still the most feasible and green way to build. But the building industry is an evolving world of change. Green building is the use of natural  resources, but with a management twist. The other products of residential construction have changed drastically. Touring the IBS (International Builders Show) or the PCBC (Pacific Coast Builders Convention) will convince you of the fact that our older homes are in need of some level of upgrade. Window technologies cut the cost through thermally broken frames. Doors are efficient through the use of fiberglass and insulation to the tune of 'R' values as good as exterior walls. Insulation in a BIB, or Spider systems save enormous amounts of energy. Foil technology on roof OSB or roll out foil over the insulation or between the rafters refracts radiant energy back to the atmosphere. PV (Photovoltaic) or wind driven electric production in conjunction with an electric water heater and/or Step Warm Floor, can completely eliminate the need for fossil fuel to heat water or conditioned air space. These are but a few of the examples of responsible home ownership in times challenge. And the builders and suppliers have everything to offer the home owner for energy savings, equity, and comfort. Invest now for savings later!

Where will the future of energy efficiency go? Net zero homes like the New American Home in Las Vegas? A 9000 square foot home that operates on technologies that keep the annual operating costs below five hundred dollars? CSD's (Community Service Districts) who serve not only water, but power to all homes in a subdivision? Who knows. But one thing is certain. We all need to become more aware of the issue, of Energy Conservation, and the Changing Construction Environment.