Building America: Cost Saving System Trade-Offs for Hot Climates

This Building America fact sheet compares the energy performance of vented roofs versus unvented roofs and high performance windows versus conventional double glazed windows in homes in Tucson, Arizona. The houses are models in the Pulte Home Corporations' Retreat at the Bluffs housing development and have controlled mechanical ventilation to insure air exchange required for good indoor airquality. The design approach addresses the effect of air leakage in ductwork and air handlers in vented attics.