Episode 43 — Energy Efficiency, R-Values, and Building Passive Houses
Architect, builder, and designer Steven Baczek talks about juggling mechanical and window package costs, plus how to pick a contractor.
Steve Baczek joins FHB editor Justin Fink and design editor Brian Pontolilo in this podcast episode. The conversation ranges over energy efficiency, solar heat gain from windows, R-values, and constructing to the passive house standard. The guys also tackle a listener question on how a homeowner can pick a good contractor. Plus, Steve’s upcoming events.
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The Fine Homebuilding Podcast embodies Fine Homebuilding magazine’s commitment to the preservation of craftsmanship and the advancement of home performance in residential construction. The show is an informal but vigorous conversation about the techniques and principles that allow listeners to master their design and building challenges.
Steven Baczek’s series on building a passive house from the ground up:
- Part One: Designed for Success
- Part Two: Air-Sealed Mudsill Assembly
- Part Three: Superinsulated Slab
- Part Four: Framing for Efficiency
- Part Five: Installing High-Performance Windows
- Passive House Video Series
Other resources and links related to this podcast:
- FHB articles by Steven Baczek
- Steven’s risk-free basement article
- The Passive House Build: Getting the Mechanicals Right
- Steve Baczek’s website
- In-ground gutters
- Old house renovation
Steve Baczek’s Homebuilding Crossroads events:
