1/10
BrightLeaf Homes built this 3,120-square-foot custom home in Brookfield, Illinois, to the high performance criteria of the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
2/10
Deep overhangs, covered porches, and fiber cement siding help protect this Chicago area home from the elements.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
3/10
ENERGY STAR appliances and advanced LED lighting add to energy savings.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
4/10
A dimpled rain mat and perforated drain pipe provide drainage around the basement foundation.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
5/10
A 10-mil vapor barrier and rigid foam protect the foundation slab from cold and damp.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
6/10
The builder staggers 2-by-4 studs on 2-by-6 top and bottom plates, which provides gaps to fill in insulation around the framing for a continuous blanket of insulation.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
7/10
House wrap is carefully installed to provide a continuous air and water barrier around the home.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
8/10
Dense-packed cellulose fills the walls and blankets the ceiling.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
9/10
The roof is protected with coated OSB that is taped at all the seams then topped by 30-lb. roofing felt and a water-proofing membrane at all eaves to provide continuous water protection under the light-colored asphalt shingles.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes
10/10
The basement is half in and half out of the ground with only 4 feet below grade, which allows for full 36-inch-tall windows that are completely above grade.
Photo courtesy of BrightLeaf Homes