Changes, they are a coming!  Everybody’s home project will change due to new state energy regulations.

Planning to renovate your home or build a new one in Massachusetts?

It will not be the same exterior building envelope as in the past and potentially all electric with no gas.  All towns across Massachusetts will be adopting a new Energy Code in summer of 2024. This is a step towards Massachusetts achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

 

What does that mean for you?

The good news, your homes will be far more energy efficient and therefore cost less to operate. The downside, the house may cost roughly 4-8% more to build.

For those of us designing homes, our goal is to make the aesthetics and systems that comply with code coexist harmoniously. Although most of the requirements are for elements not seen (i.e. insulation in walls), it does impact how we detail houses moving forward.

Houses today use insulation between the studs in the walls.  Changes to the code will relocate the insulation outside of the studs like a skin. This helps avoid the poor insulating properties of wood framing which can make up 20% of the house’s exterior.  Though this building method of insulation on the outside has been used on commercial buildings for the past 20 years it represents the biggest residential design change in years.  All walls may now be 1-3" thicker which will affect exterior detailing and normal construction conventions.

Other changes of note include, a statewide push for all electric houses.  You can still opt for a gas cooktop and gas fireplace, but you will be penalized in your energy calculations for permitting.

 

What homeowners should know

Improvements in building technology (including doors and windows) have made our houses tighter than ever, but we compensate for that by adding ventilation systems. The most important aspect homeowners need to know: is your design team knowledgeable and up to date on all changes in the energy code? Are they presenting you with information about energy consumption and materials? Even if you’re not looking for a “sustainable” or especially “green” home, we all need to understand the codes impact on green systems you will be required to adopt.

Have more questions? We’re always happy to answer any questions and provide additional information. Let’s talk.