Sun tempered superinsulated (STS) homes

Solar Orientation

• Orient main activity rooms and windows to the south.
   
• Locate patios and decks on the south side of the house.
   
• Properly shade south exposure with roof overhangs and correctly placed shade trees to provide summer comfort.

Increased Insulation Levels

• Superinsulate walls using 2” x 6” framing, R-19 insulating batts, and a layer of rigid insulation over the exterior wall framework.
   
• Insulate ceilings to R-40.
   
• Insulate foundation walls with exterior rigid board insulation.

Effective Air/Vapor Barrier

• Install a continuous impervious membrane on the inside of exterior walls with no breaks; seal all penetrations with gaskets and caulk.

Controlled Ventilation

• Install an air-to-air heat exchanger to control ventilation rates in the house.
   
• Use a furnace and water heater that draw combustion air from the outside.

Energy Efficient Window Treatment

Use this STS checklist to compare house designs you are considering building or buying. The STS measures add only a small increase to the overall house cost and will be paid back many times in lower energy bills and increased comfort.
 

• Minimize windows on the north and west walls of the house.
   
• Reduce window areas to eight percent of the floor area of the house.
   
• Install window frames made of a non-conducting material.
   
• Install double-paned windows treated with low emissive (“Low E”) coatings.