new build

Describes elements of the 'Building America' initiative, a federally sponsored initiative that has as its goal to persuade production builders (100 plus homes a year) to build more energy efficient and durable homes. Some 'volume builders' in America build more than 20,000 homes a year. It is difficult to persuade buyers to invest in energy efficient homes. Many mechanical contractors fit two furnaces in unconditioned space, because duct runs are easier to install.