The project consisted of four MADE (Marketable, Affordable, Durable, Entry-level) single-family detached homes, each under 2,000 sq. ft., located in the NAHB National Research Home Park in Bowie, MD. In-ground basements were made of precast concrete panels or decorative split-faced block. Wall frames consisted of 2x4 studs with R-13 fiberglass, R-30 blown cellulose attic insulation and were air sealed for optimum interior comfort and thermal performance. Open web floor joist framing allowed mechanicals to be located within the conditioned space of the building envelope and energy-efficient heat pump equipment was specified. Fiber cement siding and roofs covering entries provided durable features and architectural appeal. Composite architectural shingles or standing seam metal roofs with deep overhangs covered the homes. Two homes include OVE-framed roof rafters and two homes utilized roof truss systems with integral girders. The systems were compared for cost and installation time. Walkways adjacent to a community footpath used pigmented concrete.
Site plan
Chestnut elevation
LifeWise Home
The Marketable, Affordable, Durable, Entry-level (MADE) homes were planned and designed using the concepts from the publication, A Builder’s Guide to Marketable, Affordable Durable, Entry-Level Homes to Last. The efficient floor plans have a simple footprint, and features that are designed to be affordable for the life of the home. Energy efficiency and durability were emphasized.
Technology Implementation
Since the project was planned to demonstrate the use of a wide variety of advanced building technologies, most of the information collected was qualitative, rather than quantitative. Throughout the process of design, permitting, construction, and occupancy, NAHB Research Center staff participated in and monitored the implementation of the various technologies. In addition to monitoring costs, the team noted barriers to the use of the advanced technologies including performance, scheduling, interaction with other technologies, codes, and homeowner perception. This information was carefully collected and logged on the project website and the final report for the various systems of the homes.
A diverse group of over 30 builders was given a tour of the MADE homes. During the tour, concepts and technologies were pointed out and discussed. Builders were then given a short survey to gauge their current practices and the likelihood of using the concepts and technologies demonstrated in the MADE homes.
Fiber Cement Siding
The siding was installed with 2-inch galvanized roofing nails. Where face nailing was required on fascia and soffits, 8d spiral shank nails were used. Data collection focused on the area between the exterior cladding and the weather resistant barrier (WRB) and on the interior of the wall sheathing. Twenty-two pairs of moisture probes were installed around the test window to detect moisture migration through the sheathing. Six leaf wetness sensors were applied to the outside surface to determine if liquid water was present behind the cladding. The sensors were located between the fiber cement siding and the WRB.
Data were recorded in 15-minute intervals over a 12-month period between March 2002 and March 2003. In order to correlate the wall data with outdoor conditions, a weather station was also installed and monitored.
The Aspen - Detail at Garage Offset
Fiber-Cement Circular Saw Blades
Additional Information
View evaluation results of these technologies
Week 1: Construction Begins!!
Week 2: Setting the Basement Walls
Week 3: Pouring the Slab
Week 4: Let's Get Framing!
Week 5: Framing the Walls and Roof
Week 6: Installation of the Garage Stemwalls
Week 7: Installation of Weather Barrier, Flashing, Windows, Doors
Week 8: Rough-Ins: HVAC, Fire Protection, Plumbing
Week 9: Rough-Ins II: Electrical and Budget-Wise Structured Wiring and Security
Week 10: Insulation Installation
Week 11: Roofing
Week 12: Drywall, Trim, and Paint
Week 13: Siding Installation
Week 14: Exterior Decking
Week 15: Exterior Painting
Week 16: Hard Floors Installation
Week 17: Trades Finish Work (Part I)
Week 18: Trades Finish Work (Part II)