Take Two

Good morning, Gentle Readers!

Yesterday, I said I was going to try to remake that image I brought forth for your perusal. Here is the result. As you can see, it is different, but it is still much the same. I hope you enjoy!

After thinking- a lot- I think I know where to find the last bit of information I really do need for my project. I still have to place a few inquiries, but it should come together easily now. I am speaking relatively: At least I'm not giving it a glassy-eyed stare.

I also did a little bit of research about green and high-energy efficiency homes. I learned a lot of very interesting things!

1) An energy efficient eco-friendly home is not that much more expensive to build than a conventional one. The things that adds to the price tag of the homes portrayed on television are the high-end finishing touches, such as the granite counter tops and so on. I think granite is a lovely material, but I can live without it. I just don't want formica, thank you!
2) One thing that adds to the energy efficiency of a home is a layer of insulation called a 'thermal wrap' in addition to the standard insulation between the studs. In conventional construction, the joints where the frame is assembled aren't insulated. Nor are a lot of the areas around doors and windows. According to an article I found, ideally a home should be so well sealed that a ventilator fan is needed to facilitate air exchange.
3) Even just the orientation of the house can make a difference in how much energy it uses.

There are more things I found, but I think I will stop there. It's an exciting time to be learning about these things!

Until we meet, Gentle Readers...