Energy Star

To earn the ENERGY STAR®, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20 - 30% more efficient than standard homes. Certification is granted through a "rater" that qualifies the home via testing and inspection. This includes:

-Blower door testing for "leakiness" of the envelope.
-Visual inspection of envelope, insulation and air/moisture barriers.
-A complete air barrier (ZIP System® wall sheathing) reduces convection currents and air infiltration, the leading causes of energy loss in a home and also serves as a water-resistive barrier.

Energy Star Seal and Insulate Effort
ENERGY STAR’s Seal and Insulate program recommends building practices that improve energy efficiency in homes. Practices include: sealing air leaks throughout the home to stop drafts, adding insulation to block heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, and choose ENERGY STAR qualified windows when replacing windows.

Using ZIP System™ tape can help reduce air leaks as recommended by the Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR effort.