Special Issue on Residential Construction

摘要

Residential construction is the largest segment of the building industry in the United States. The light-frame construction system typical for North America has not dramatically changed, and platform construction dominates the market. Energy has become a focal point of design, but despite major advances, our homes are significantly behind those in Europe in energy efficiency because high energy prices dictate developments in this area. Our homes are still relatively energy inefficient, with poor acoustic performance and high maintenance demands. On the other hand, they meet sustainability requirements because renewable resources are used in construction. The homebuilding industry is constantly striving to improve its products and has made significant progress in adapting green design concepts.