The Hidden Energy Waste in American Homes: Understanding R-Value

In the United States, structures have long been significant contributors to energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions. While this may come as no surprise, the culprit behind this issue often remains concealed in plain sight: the relatively low R-value of American homes and buildings. R-value, a term unfamiliar to many, is a critical factor in the energy efficiency of structures.

What is R-value?

R-value measures the thermal resistance of a building material. In simpler terms, it gauges how well a material can insulate against heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Many structures in the USA have low R-values due to outdated building practices and materials.

Impacts on Our Planet and Wallets

The consequence of low R-values is far larger than you may initially think. First, energy waste in heating and cooling becomes rampant as buildings struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures. Buildingswith poor energy efficiency may have lower property values. Potential buyers and investors often consider long-term energy costs, and properties with higher energy demands may be less attractive in the real estate market, potentially affecting property values and resale opportunities. Energy waste can also lead to increased wear and tear on HVAC systems, which can result in higher maintenance and repair costs. These unexpected expenses can strain both individual homeowners and commercial property owners’ budgets, impacting their overall financial health. Lastly, this waste significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change and posing a dire threat to our planet’s future.

The implications are felt daily. We pay higher energy bills, struggle with uncomfortable indoor temperatures, and witness the devastating effects on our planet. It’s a crisis that affects us all, both financially and environmentally. 

Vero Building Systems: A Path to a Sustainable Future

At Vero Building Systems, we recognize the urgent need for change. That’s why we’re dedicated to bringing a better way to build to the U.S. market. Our solution lies in SCIP (Structural Concrete Insulated Panels). These panels, composed of polystyrene and a steel wire mesh, are encased in concrete on both sides, providing unparalleled insulation.

Building structures with VERO’s panels reduces CO2 emissions by up to 40% during the construction of the building and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 65% during the structure’s lifetime, resulting in overall energy cost savings.  This is evident in a 5,000-square-foot residence constructed with SCIP panels in the state of Florida. Remarkably, this dwelling has consistently maintained energy bills at or below $300 per month, a noteworthy contrast to the prevailing market norm of $500 to $650 per month for residences of comparable size. 

Our SCIP panels offer customizable R-ratings ranging from R9 to R37. Compare this to the average R-rating of structures built in the USA, and it becomes evident that we provide a transformative solution to the energy waste problem.

Visit verobuildingsystems.com to learn more about how SCIP panels can revolutionize how we build, reduce energy waste, and keep families safe.