Summary Statement of Proposed Project:
This research project will be determining which type of house construction is the most energy efficient for a house. It will be looking at different wood frame construction techniques, such as 2x4 and 2x6 construction. It will also be looking at ICF construction. It will include different types of windows, double glazed vs. triple glazed, and different types of insulation.
Purpose:
The purpose of this research project is to figure out which type of construction is most energy efficient, and to determine which will be more cost effective in the long run.
Goals and Objectives of the Project:
The goals of this project are to learn which construction method is the most energy efficient and which will be the most cost effective over the life of the building. The end result will be knowing which is the overall best choice of construction.
Methodology and Analytical Approach:
The steps that I am going to take to accomplish my goal are, first of all, I will gather all the specifications of the house I am going to be studying. I will need the floor area, wall type, insulation values and window types. From there I will enter all the information into HOT2000 and determine the energy efficiency. I will then change the wall types, insulation values and window types in HOT2000 for the different construction methods I will be studying. After that is done, I will consult contractors and/or manufacturers to figure out the cost of each method. Resulting in knowing which construction type is the most cost effective.
Previous Studies:
I have found studies from around the world on this topic. But none from the specific town I am going to be researching.
Plans for Dissemination of Work:
To get my research out to others I will be creating a blog and updating it regularly with the progress of my work.
Budget:
This research will not require a very large budget. Most of the research can be done online and with free software. If I was to do a blower door test on the house I am working with, I would need roughly $500 for the test and gas to drive there.
Contribution of the Project to Academic Goals and Objectives:
My role in conceiving this project is to start with online articles and books from the library. I will then get into the field and start talking to professionals who work in this discipline. If needed, I will conduct tests to help with my research. My overall academic objectives for this research are to better my understanding of why certain construction types are more energy efficient than others and to find out which method is most cost effective over time.
