Because Kaplan Thompson's minimum insulation value for projects in the Northeast is R–40, the firm specs a product designed for extreme conditions. It often turns to cellulose insulation, which has the lowest “embodied energy” of its product class, uses up to 85 percent recycled newspaper, and offers better R-value in areas with wide temperature variations. Cellulose Insulation Manufacturers Association, 888.881.2462; www.cellulose.org


Kaplan Thompson Architects
phil kaplan, aia, leed ap, and jesse thompson, aia, leed ap
portland, maine
www.kaplanthompson.com