It’s been three years since Katahdin beefed up their 39-year-old insulation package to create the Energy Envelope System™—an insulation system that met the new energy 
conservation codes enacted by Congress. Since that time states have been creating and upgrading the requirements within their individual state energy efficiency codes to essentially meet those new requirements.
Just in case you missed the discussion, here’s a recap as explained in Katahdin’s August 2009 press release. Since the bill’s passage, all states have been working to create or upgrade their building code standards to meet the requirements of the 2009 International Energy Efficiency Code (IECC).
Why this makes a difference in the log home you choose
Some states have given log homes an exemption from the IECC codes, while others have made no exceptions for log homes over other stick-built homes. We’ve found a way to comply without compromise. The US Department of Energy maintains a site that is a good place to start regarding individual state compliance with the federal mandate. It’s a good idea to double check with your local and state authorities to find out what is required for energy efficiency.
At Katahdin Cedar Log Homes, we’ve built our reputation on more than 39 years of surviving some very tough Maine winters with log homes of unparalleled energy efficiency. Since 2009, Katahdin has been alone in offering a whole-log solution that meets the new 30% increase in energy efficiency standards now required nationwide.
Our Energy Envelope System™ gives you the only whole log solution to the new energy efficiency requirements: no log siding on stick-built walls; no wacky, over-engineered “logs” with foam filling; no hybrid designs that turn logs into architectural flourishes.
Katahdin’s Energy Envelope System™ is a tested, whole log system that increases the R-value of the log wall by up to 156% and meets or exceeds all the IECC code requirements in the continental U.S. The Energy Envelope System™ has some added benefits beyond superior energy efficiency, including simpler and less labor-intense plumbing and electrical installation. And, it doesn’t hurt to start with the driest, most stable log species available: Northern White Cedar.
If you have further questions about the effects of the 2009 IECC regulations, please contact us: we’ll be happy to answer your questions!