Hello to All &…..Piffin should get a kick out of working through this one…..

I’m still thinking outside of the box and need help with the obvious for a future house plan that has yet to move beyond the hotdog napkin sketches….grandfather built some fine houses designing this way.

Which is better or are they the same?…….

A. Single R60 wall with living space inside…..or

B. R30 wall 8′ of sealed porch space not climate controlled/south facing windows/deep overhangs in SW VA….then another R30 wall with living space inside? (still total R60 materials between outside and living)

Next, do we have a consensus on how “fine homes” should be insulated for “long term” payback?……If I build with the expectation that one of my future grandchildren will own the house in 60 yrs….how much insulation do I use to maximize my comfort and return?……..is R60 in the walls worth it for a fine home…..should it be more?…earth home is not an option in this design (wife wants traditional look)

What about the floor and roof?…..Full basement for fun and hobbies….not overly concerned about heating and cooling as it will be part time utilized……main level will contain all primary living space….story and 1/2 attic area will have 2 additional bedrooms sealed off and occasionally used.

Maybe R60 all walls, R14 basement floor, R29 main floor, R42 attic floor, R60 Ceiling/Roof

At this level of insulation is there any practical reason to have greater in the ceiling areas than in the walls?…..for years it’s been recommended by the industry to have much more in the attic than in the walls……but with a metal roof reflecting summer heat and a well sealed house…..actual heat rise shouldn’t be a problem with standard ceilings.

Current sketch has the basic foundation as 48’x48′ including enclosed solar porch.

To those super energy conscious wanting me to reduce it to 800 sq ft….sorry that ain’t happening here….so the best we can hope for is to make it as energy efficient as possible within the confines. There will simply be too much entertaining at this home to reduce the main floorplan and I operate my business office from home thus eliminating another building and vehicle travel emisions.

So, what have I left out of the equation?

Pedro the Mule – crazy hoofed animal