MADE Project: Bowie, MD

View the ToolBase Field Results- MADE Home Project: Bowie MD (PDF) for an overview of the details and findings of this evaluation.

Precast Concrete Foundation:

• Local codes required the application of waterproofing, even though the high-strength concrete is naturally water resistant and does not require additional waterproofing.
• Preparing the gravel footing for the walls took about two hours for each site.
• Setting the basement walls took one hour per house with a crew of five, including the crane operator; total installation time was three hours per house.
• The first floor decking is framed before backfilling to provide structural support against the soil pressure.

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New Generation OSB Sub-flooring:

• Despite two episodes of rain before the floor was under roof, the OSB subfloor experienced no edge swelling. The OSB and truss system provided squeak-free floors without the use of screws for fastening.

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Air Admittance Valves:

• Although the technology is widely accepted in the codes, the local authority did not initially approve AAVs. However, a waiver was granted for their use ultimately.
• A plumbing riser diagram, prepared by the manufacturer, simplified the use of the technology by the plumber.
• One, 2-inch vent was required to the outdoors.

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Electric Tankless Water Heater:

• Plumbing hook up was very similar to a conventional water heater.
• Hot water flow to tubs may need to be partially constrained in order for the water heater to meet hot water demand during the high flow rate used during tub filling.
• Required 120 amps and, therefore, a 300-amp service panel.

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Structured Wiring:

• Low-voltage wiring for security system and structured wiring (CAT5) took a half day per house to install (see Dollars & Sense table on page 4 for cost information).

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Fiber Cement Siding

• Siding installation for contractor and one helper took two weeks. This time included window flashing to project specifications and careful attention to detail.

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Builder Survey Results

Table 5 in the Final Report summarizes builders’ responses as to their likelihood of incorporating MADE concepts and technologies into their future homes.

Caulkless Fiber Cement Results

• According to the data and actual inspection of the house, there appeared to be no water leakage or moisture migration through the walls in normal weather conditions. The seven wetness sensors between the fiber cement siding and the house wrap showed no indication of wetness.
• The 22 moisture probes around the window area revealed no evidence of water intrusion.

Additional Information

View evaluation method of these technologies