Energy costs in timber frame homes has always been one of the items we bring to the table when we discuss the advantages of timber frames. The cost to heat and cool a home that’s wrapped in structural insulated panels is typically low. As we designed our home, we wanted plenty of natural light, but understand all too well that windows are the least efficient wall space. However, our utility bills continue to please us.
We heat and cool our house with electricity. Propane to cook and for the tankless water heater runs less than $100 a year. In the past twelve months, our electricity has cost less than $886. While we are watch our usage, we comfortable and don’t live in a dark, cold home. Even with an abundance of windows, our costs average $2.41 per day for electricity. Timber frame homes offer these economies naturally.
As we discuss designing homes with our clients, we consider daylighting, air flow, and overhangs to be an important part of the design process. Homes shouldn’t only be beautiful, they should be comfortable and efficient. We bring this altogether in the final design.
Energy costs will continue to rise, so it is always important to consider ways to make homes more efficient. This alone will minimize the money spent in the future to heat and cool a home. Adding a well insulated envelope to the items on your wish list in your new home is the most effective way to save money long term. Today we can’t stress the importance of this too much. Save money…daily.
So, consider your options, and when you build…build boldly!