Energy Efficiency Archives - Page 2 of 2

Builder Tips March 3, 2020

4 Steps to Winning with Lean Construction

Yes, it’s about reducing waste, but it’s also a mindset shift with far-reaching payoffs Brought to you by JELD-WEN Jobsite waste bleeds profits in ways builders don’t consider. Take the example of trips to supply houses to pick up forgotten items or exchange incorrect ones. “We have hard evidence from 5,000 suppliers and trades that the total cost can be as much as $10,000 per home,” says consultant Scott Sedam. That’s 50 trips at roughly $200 per trip in labor and overhead. It’s just one of many examples of hidden waste that impacts the vast majority of projects, no matter their size. The upside, Sedam says, is it’s all preventable. As president of True North, a consulting company in South Lyon, Michigan, he helps production builders implement Lean construction. Lean is a continuous improvement philosophy that came from auto manufacturing: Toyota used it to grow into one of the world’s largest car makers.…

Energy Efficiency January 27, 2020

3 Advantages of the Performance Path

Most builders still use the prescriptive path for energy code compliance, but a growing number are switching to the performance path and seeing savings. Most builders use the prescriptive path to comply with energy requirements since it seems easier to use particular parts as specified in the regulations. But builders who choose the performance path can calculate the whole building energy efficiency to comply with regulations, freeing them up to choose different components. Many who make the change find that they can save money with the performance path. With great software simulation tools like Ekotrope, REScheck, or REM/Design on the market, it is getting easier to change over to the performance path. These tools then estimate the home’s annual energy use to make sure it is at or below what the regulations require. Letting the computer help you figure out the best options for a project can save a lot…

Builder Tips January 17, 2020

Using Construction Process Maps for Increased Productivity

It’s easier than you think to use process mapping to help your company reduce wasted effort and materials, and get jobs done faster. There are many ways to help you decrease waste in your process, but few are as easy to implement as Process Mapping. Plus, with the continued shortage in skilled labor, any efficiency you add to your SOP can make your entire team more productive—and your company more profitable. To analyze and eliminate waste in your projects, process mapping may be just the thing to help you use your resources—people and material—in the most efficient way possible. Training managers first Many companies opt to get in-depth training for their project managers, lead carpenters, or supervisors, so they can then teach workers the new skills on-site. This works for many types of training, especially as changing regulations and newer building materials necessitate working in new ways. Even the government…

Energy Efficiency December 7, 2018

Energy efficiency terms explained

Terms you need to know relating to glass energy efficiency You’ve probably heard of several energy efficiency terms. But you may not know exactly what they mean. We put together this quick list for your reference. By understanding these terms, you can be knowledgeable and informed in your energy efficiency journey. Common energy efficiency terms Clear Insulating Glass An airspace separates two clear panes of glass, providing insulating properties that benefit your home. This option offers maximum visible light transmittance and basic energy efficiency in most climates. ENERGY STAR® ENERGY STAR® is a voluntary program created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that helps businesses and individuals reduce energy consumption to save money and protect the environment. You will see an ENERGY STAR® label on a window or door if it meets the energy saving specifications for a designated climate zone. Gas fills Manufacturers often fill the space between glass panes with gas,…

Energy Efficiency November 21, 2018

Energy efficiency tips: what you need to know

When temperatures spike, drafty windows and doors can quickly turn into rising utility bills. New energy efficient windows and doors are crucial to maintaining a home’s comfort all year long. This is especially true in the coldest and hottest months. We’ve put together a few energy efficiency tips to help. Updating windows can save you money as well. Using ENERGY STAR® qualified products could save the average homeowner $126 to $465 a year when replacing single-pane windows. Here’s what you need to know to maximize energy efficiency in your home. Give your home an energy makeover ENERGY STAR® has a program, Home Advisor, that can help you. It works in three steps: Create an energy profile for your home.Get customized recommendations.Get your list of projects, and start work. Start at the front A home’s front door can play a vital role as one of the first lines of defense against the elements. If…