K. Hovnanian Inc.: Freehold Township, NJ

Gather relevant design, installation, and cost data for each technology. Identify builder, trade, and consumer issues with the technologies.

• FPSF reduced foundation installation costs to the floor system.
• Steel floor joist system added stiffness to the floor system, which reduces vibrations.
• Connection of steel members required additional labor.
• The PEX plumbing system was easy to install and saved money, but plumbers objected to using this different technology.
• Overall ductwork length was reduced by keeping ducts in conditioned space, but duct leakage did not appear to be affected either positively or negatively (although duct leakage to the exterior was prevented).
• Pre-finished drywall corners were initially difficult to install, but ultimately the crew found them easy to install. The drywall corners provided an attractive, smooth finished appearance.
• Code officials caused delays with approval of the FPSF and the PEX plumbing system, because of unfamiliarity with the technologies.