Open Email sent a month ago to various USA orgs who work for stronger / better buildings such as : BuildStrong Coalition, National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), Resilient Design Institute, Smart Home America, U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), Habitat for Humanity, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)
No replies have been recieved so far
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Request for Comments on Research Regarding Construction Methods and Materials in U.S. Homes
Dear Sir / Madam
I
hope this letter finds you well. My name is Paul Ridley, a Director of a
small social enterprise, Cabinz cic in the UK.
I am currently conducting research into construction methods and materials used in residential housing across the United States.
Specifically, I am investigating why approximately 90% of homes in the U.S. continue to be constructed using traditional stick-built methods, predominantly insulated with fiberglass, despite the availability of structurally insulated panels (SIPs) for over six decades.
SIPs, as you may be aware, utilize rigid spray foam insulation and offer significant advantages in strength and thermal efficiency over conventional framing and insulation methods.
Ironically, many of the materials used in
some types of SIPs, like OSB sheets, make up a large part of stick built
houses, but they are used in a weaker and way less insulative
construction design.
I am also interested in research into reinforced concrete dome homes, particularly
concrete dome
homes in hurricane prone areas
Research Background and Focus
The aim of my research is to understand the barriers preventing the widespread adoption of SIPs and other innovative construction materials in the residential sector. Numerous studies have demonstrated that SIPs are more resilient to natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes, offer superior energy efficiency, and provide a streamlined construction process. Yet, traditional framing with fiberglass insulation remains the dominant choice in new construction projects.
Seeking Your Comments and Insights
Given the potential implications of these findings for building safety, resilience, and sustainability, I am reaching out to government officials, disaster recovery organizations, and key stakeholders like yourself for your insights on the following:
Policy and Code Standards: To what extent do building codes and zoning laws in your jurisdiction facilitate or hinder the adoption of innovative materials like SIPs? Are there specific barriers in updating these codes?
Public Awareness and Education: Do you believe there is sufficient awareness among homeowners, builders, and developers about the benefits of using SIPs or similar materials? Are there any initiatives in place or planned to promote such awareness?
Cost and Economic Considerations: Do you have insights into the economic factors affecting the choice between traditional construction methods and alternative technologies like SIPs? Is there reluctance due to initial costs, or are there other economic incentives or disincentives influencing these decisions?
Disaster Resilience and Safety: Given the increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes and other natural disasters, what measures are being taken to strengthen residential housing in vulnerable areas? In your experience, are there ongoing discussions or legislative efforts aimed at promoting the use of more resilient construction methods?
Supply Chain and Construction Industry Challenges: Are there limitations in the supply chain, labor expertise, or industry practices that may be preventing the adoption of SIPs or other innovative technologies?
- Previous Legal Action : Has there been any significant legal cases in this area ? (not specifically re: Sips) I am aware of : 1. State Farm Florida Insurance Co. v. Gonzalez (2015) 2. Blanchard v. State Farm Mutual Auto Insurance Company (2002) 3. In Re: Katrina Canal Breaches Consolidated 4. Severe Penalties for Code Violations in Hurricane-Prone Areas (Post-Hurricane Andrew, 1992)
I am eager to explore these questions and to understand the perspectives of those involved in policy-making, building safety regulation, disaster recovery, and community development. I would greatly appreciate any insights, comments, or feedback you may be able to provide based on your experience and expertise in this area.
Conclusion
The resilience of our communities in the face of increasing natural disasters depends on the choices we make today regarding building standards and materials. By understanding the reasons behind the continued reliance on traditional construction methods, we can better identify the opportunities and challenges in promoting stronger, more energy-efficient, and disaster-resilient housing.
If you are willing to contribute to this research, I would be happy to provide more details or schedule a time to discuss this further at your convenience. Please feel free to reach me at cabinznet@gmail.com or phone me in the uk +44 743 2315470
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of en
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