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.
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Deep overhangs, covered porches, and fiber cement siding help protect this Chicago area home from the elements.
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ENERGY STAR appliances and advanced LED lighting add to energy savings.
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A dimpled rain mat and perforated drain pipe provide drainage around the basement foundation.
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A 10-mil vapor barrier and rigid foam protect the foundation slab from cold and damp.
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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.
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House wrap is carefully installed to provide a continuous air and water barrier around the home.
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Dense-packed cellulose fills the walls and blankets the ceiling.
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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.
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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.