Going beyond building zero

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Learn how a hybrid insulation approach can help achieve exceptional energy performance, interior comfort and long-term airtightness. 

One of the showstopping elements of the 2026 International Builders’ Show was The New American Home 2026 exhibit. Installed by Orlando-based Synergy Foam, the 16,000-square-foot residence showcased how a carefully designed thermal envelope can help structures reach a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index potentially lower than -40. 

How is such a low number even possible? Synergy Foam’s design for The New American Home 2026 combined Enverge EasySeal open-cell spray foam with a Fi-Foil radiant barrier in order to address multiple forms of heat transfer:  

• Conductive heat flow: The four inches of foam installed limits air movement and slows conductive heat flow. To reach ultra-low air leakage levels, AeroBarrier was also applied after the insulation. 
• Radiant heat: The foil reflects radiant heat. The crew utilized a two-inch air gap between the reflective layer and the foam to optimize this performance. 

The resulting wall system delivers an effective R-value of approximately R-24. The same approach was used along the roof deck to create a sealed, unvented attic that improves thermal stability.  

In addition to this incredible energy performance, the use of Enverge EasySeal foam supported interior comfort. Specifically for this project, which serves as a venue for Jonathan’s Landing (a nonprofit supporting adults with autism), the foam’s sound-absorbing cellular structure was key.  

The completed envelope works alongside 108 solar panels generating approximately 43 kW and helped the home pursue ENERGY STAR, NGBS Emerald, DOE Zero Energy Ready Home and Indoor airPLUS certifications. 

Learn more about how Enverge EasySeal and a hybrid insulation strategy supported the performance goals of The New American Home 2026.