Stress-Skin Homes Move Mainstream

by Steve Carlson Builders assemble a custom saltbox using panels provided by Branch River Foam Plastics. Panels are cut in the field according to shop drawings that Branch River supplies for each home. STRESS-SKIN HOMES MOVE MAINSTREAM With refined systems foam-panel manufacturers are penetrating more markets 0n a wooded hillside in Keene, N. H., heavy machinery is at work building roads and laying sewer lines for a 54- house development. The houses are far from identical, but share design features such as steep roofs and cathedral ceilings. Those that are closed in wear the badges of energy efficiency: tiny heating systems and airto- air heat exchangers. The development looks similar to many others in the upper-middle price range. But instead of studs, joists, or timber frames, the houses are all