Hi,
Have been reading all the comments with interest:)
I can certainly appreciate Cyndi's and dawn's views, and I surely do
understand where Jeff and Eric are coming from.
But the answers are just not that simple. I'm in the process of designing and
building a new passive solar home...and have whittled down the choices on
building systems, energy efficiency, cost etc. down to what I feel is
realistic for my budget and goals.
No one has mentioned cost...yet that is a big factor for many. And
alternatives are not so readily available. For example stucturally insulated
panels composed of a sandwich of polystyrene and OSB board are recommended as
energy efficient, easy to put up, saves wood, utilizes waste etc. but do use
polystyrene.
The purpose of the Dow polystyrene was primarily for insulating the
foundation from the earth not for water control. Believe me I'd rather use
all natural eco friendly materials in my home too, but where are the
alternative products?, what do they cost, and why is not information readily
available on such products.
I'm sure Cyndi and Dawn would also prefer to use such products too.
So while I may agree with Jeff and Eric's philosophy I feel that I must do
the best I can within my resources and use certain products like SIPS,
insulated concrete forms, and perhaps even vinyl siding which some may regard
ecologically unfriendly.
Just my two cents! Balance is hard to achieve:) Best to all. Frank
