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The 2018 FHB House is a net-zero energy, high-performance home in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills designed to meet the goals of the California 2020 initiative and comply with the most progressive energy code in the country. The project combines a very tight, well-insulated envelope, cutting-edge mechanical systems, and unique material choices, all wrapped up in a one-of-a-kind modern design.

California 2018

Tools & Materials

A Modern California Home Wrapped in Rockwool Insulation for Energy Efficiency and Fire Resistance

The designer and builder of the 2018 Fine Homebuilding House detail why they chose mineral-wool batts and high-density boards for all of their insulation needs.

By David Good, Mela Breen

Sponsored by Rockwool

Builder David Good and designer Mela Breen of Atmosphere Design Build have made a commitment to building the most sustainable, healthy, and energy-efficient homes possible. The durable, non-toxic, recyclable fibers that make up Rockwool rigid boards and batts play a big part in making that possible. Dave and Mela discuss how Rockwool rigid mineral wool insulation and unique architectural details reduce thermal bridging throughout their newly constructed high-performance home in the western foothills of California’s Sierra Nevada.

The main role of the continuous blanket of stone wool insulation boards underneath their standing-seam metal roofing and siding is comfort, but the non-flammable, mineral-based insulation also adds a good measure of fire protection–a very important feature in this wildfire-prone region. The couple has even been able to use the high-density insulation boards as sub-slab insulation, meeting a need that was once only accomplished with rigid foam insulation. Watch the video above to see the role of insulation in their beautiful net-zero home.

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California 2018 Videos Behind the Build: Rhode Island 2016 Behind the Build: Vermont 2017 Behind the Build: Kentucky 2019 Behind the Build: Connecticut 2020

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