3.  Low-E Windows

The low emissivity windows have a coating of metallic oxides on them that prevent the heat to transfer through them. Normally the windows are employed on external windows without double-pane windows. There are two types of coatings; soft and hard coating. The soft coating is usually between the glass panels while the hard one is on the outside of the glass. These windows cost 10 to 15 percent more than your average storm window however they do save 10 to 20 percent in heating costs.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqeky_Wfrx0?[/youtube]

2.  Vacuum Insulation Panel

For an inch panel, the vacuum insulation panel (VIP) can give as much as 10  times more insulation as compared to our conventional products. Although this is an exceptional technology, yet it is currently only available for commercial industrial refrigeration and specialized container systems. It’s a textured silver rectangle that holds a core panel enclosed in an airtight envelope. Manufacturers can make the panels in any size. According to National Association of Home Builders the major problem with the material is its fragile exterior. The association is working with The Dow Chemical Company, the chief manufacturer of the product, to make the panels available as insulation for attics in future residential construction.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NITunk0dmM0[/youtube]

1. Earth

Building with rammed earth or adobe has its advantages. To begin with it is free, abundant and readily available at the site thus eliminating the need for transportation. However, finding the right craftsmen for this type of construction on the other hand is not an easy job. Countries like China, Peru and New Zealand actually have integrated such type of constructions in their building codes, United States on the other hand refrained from it. This is mostly because craftsmen are not easily available and cost for labor alone for such work can go up to $80 per square foot.  Even so, researchers at the association note that earthen walls provide excellent thermal protection, and the material comes from the ultimate in renewable sources.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxTQorQ72_o[/youtube]