Our June 17 Pro Tour in Pulaski, NY first net zero homes in Central/Western NY. Homeowners Tom Lambert and Ann Buchau offered both a professional perspective on net zero construction and energy modeling, and the homeowners’ perspective on living in a house built to the stringent net zero standards. Tom is a graduate of the Zero Net Energy Homes course in the Building Energy Masters Series. Other project team members were available to answer questions during the tour.

This isn’t your typical net zero design – Ann and Tom partnered with New Energy Works Timberframers to design a house that utilizes  traditional stick building elements combined with the age-old craft of timber framing. Natural lighting, on-site PV array, and a design allowing winter passive solar heat gain and summer shade are just the tip of the iceberg. The homeowners are excited to share their experiences to help inspire others interested in building science and energy during this Pro Tour. Overall the home marries finely tuned energy and enclosure solutions with an environment suited for creating artwork, woodworking and a generally relaxed retirement lifestyle.

Project Features:

• 2,853 sq.ft., newly constructed home
• Projected completion in spring 2016
• Frame utilizes Douglas Fir timbers, as well as Black Cherry and White Oak lumber harvested from property for interior millwork
• 10,260 watt ground mount solar array consisting of 36 SW 285 mono panels with Enphase M250 micro inverters
• Projected pv production of 12,702 kWh/yr
• Inline fiberglass triple pane windows
• Mitsubishi ducted air source heat pump
• Pre-panelized 12-inch walls and 18-inch roof
• Conscious material selection for low carbon footprint:
• Euroshield EuroLite Slate eco friendly rubber roofing
• Insulation materials include dense pack cellulose, Roxul and Foamglas and minimal use of foam board
• Reclaimed wood floors and cabinetry

Schedule