Energy Consumption of Housing: A Case Study of RE and SB Construction in Northern Colorado

This study investigated rammed earth (RE) housing as an alternative to the current method wood frame (SB) used in residential construction in Northern Colorado (NoCO). Using an embedded methodology including; direct observations, archival records, and documentation to produce the findings. The objectives of this research evaluated the energy consumption by both RE & SB housing. RE is purported to be more energy efficient because of the thermal dynamics of wall construction. The claims, by proponents of RE indicate residents can save between 30–50% on energy consumption. This study substantiates that RE can conserve on energy consumption, however the percentages were lower. This is a comparative analysis rather than a definitive choice of prototypes.