The East Lansing READ Project House was affordable to build and costs less to operate than a comparable home built using standard construction methods and materials. This home achieves a five star rating, the highest rating available, on the Michigan Home Energy Rating Scale. The Energy Office offers these home energy ratings which indicate the energy efficiency of a home.
SIPs create a sturdier, tighter, super-insulated structure which is faster to build.
The calculated R-value for the READ home's walls is 26. SIP panels were used to construct the basement walls as well as the above-grade walls and ceiling. Home is designed to maximize usable space. Eave overhangs shade south facing windows and minimize heat gain and reduce cooling load. House is well insulated and air tight - A small ventilation fan provides adequate ventilation air and control of the interior pressure relative to the outside.