Energy Efficient Timber Frame Homes

A well-built home with the ability to significantly reduce energy costs, while providing a pleasant living space; that is what building energy efficient timber homes means to us. Riverbend timber frame homes are built to last generations, not just because of the endearing nature of a timber home, but because our integrated building system is designed to seal your home from the elements year after year after year.

Your Home's Energy Envelope

When we refer to your home's energy envelope we are speaking of how well the walls, foundation and roofing work together to seal your home from energy loss. Energy loss through a wall or roof system is measured primarily in two forms, air leakage and conductive heat loss. Air leaks allow the heat to escape in the seams of your home and fiber-based insulation, while conductive heat loss occurs thorough ineffective insulation. In the image to the right, dark blues represent low levels of energy loss, while on the other side of the spectrum, bright white represents extreme loss. You can see the drastic difference in the home which uses SIP construction versus the conventional stick-frame house. A home that uses structural insulated panels has a solid core and a higher R-value - the amount of resistance a material has to heat loss.

Investing in the Future

For most, the decision to build a traditional timber frame home is an investment in the future. This is a home you plan to enjoy for a lifetime and may even plan to pass down to future generations. We realize that you want to build according to the long term investment your home represents. By investing in quality building techniques, such as SIPs and ICFs, you can take advantage of energy savings for the life of your home. In addition to monetary savings, a Riverbend home provides a comfortable living space due to consistent temperatures throughout the house.

Green Home Certifications

If your home building goals go beyond energy efficiency and you want to secure a certification such as LEED®, Energuide or EnergyStar, Riverbend homes are designed to help you meet any level. Using SIP and ICF construction starts your home on the path and Riverbend's experienced design team will help you understand what additional aspects may be required. We have helped clients meet the criteria for multiple green home programs over the years and are available to discuss the possibilities for your project.