And on the inside...

We keep putting pictures of the master shower, showing the rough in work. It looks like all the valves have been installed on the second floor. What some of you may notice is the piping is mostly not traditional copper or PVC. The "green" alternative is PEX water supply pipes. If you are interested in many of the "green" aspects of PEX check out this link, http://jobsite.buildiq.com/articles/greener-building/pex-plumbing-green.aspx .

This may make my plumber father roll around in his grave but this is the way of the future. Besides the potential benefits listed in the article, it is quicker to install since the lines are flexible.

A couple of guys came while I was there to start sealing the building envelope with spray foam insulation around the windows, and caulk around exterior outlets and at the wall/floor joint. Doing this is one easy way to save energy in heating and cooling the home. I found some interesting studies on line (the scientist in me I guess). The Department of Energy states that up to 40% of heating and cooling costs are due to air infiltration in the building envelope. A recent NAHB study (1997) showed that a good caulk-and-seal (foam-and-seal) package reduces annual heating and cooling costs from $150 - $300, on average. Also check out this pdf from energy star, http://www.energystar.gov/ia/new_homes/features/AirSealing1-17-01.pdf .

Finally, the electricians are about done on the second floor running the wire and installing the recessed lighting. They are planning on doing the first floor next week.