ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. (WCAX) — Bit by bit, panel by panel… with every strike of the hammer, the
New Frameworks
The team is nearer to building a new residence.
“It represents our solution to Vermont’s housing shortage and, indeed, the country’s housing shortage,” stated company co-founder Ace McArleton.
Essex Junction businesses specialize in constructing tiny houses and accessory dwelling units, along with renovating existing structures. Despite their appealing exteriors, it’s the interiors that truly matter. McArleton has been utilizing straw in construction for the past 25 years.
Everyone benefits,” McArleton stated. “The local economy, our environment, and those living in these homes.
The outer layer of the panels consists of wood, whereas the insulation material used is densely packed straw. This straw is actually an agricultural leftover sourced from the Nitty Gritty Grain Company located in Charlotte.
“These individuals are cultivating produce to nourish our local populations,” stated McArleton. “Subsequently, we can utilize another portion of these plants to create remarkably attractive and highly efficient building materials for structures and residences.”
We had an inside view of the group constructing the panels. The head builder, fondly called “Nacho,” went through every process meticulously. Despite some linguistic challenges, McArleton helped interpret. According to them, they utilize a pneumatic device to compress the straw further. Even though this might appear to be an outdated method, the crew mentioned that it’s highly effective and resistant to fires. As there isn’t enough oxygen space within, McArleton compares igniting it to attempting to set a telephone directory ablaze. Additionally, Nacho noted that working with this organic material is far less hazardous compared to conventional insulators for the entire team.
Piles of completed panels fill up the workshop space. For every project, each floor plan specifies the number of required panels along with their dimensions. These small houses, known as “Casitas,” fit together similar to Lego pieces. Occasionally, they can be assembled within just three days. The buildings may either come unfinished down to the wooden framework or fully equipped based on the preferences of the purchaser and their location relative to Vermont.
“We’ve discovered that when we construct thoughtfully using these materials, with an understanding of building science, they can be highly effective for a very long time in structures,” explained McArleton.
He additionally mentioned that the quality, durability, and efficiency of these houses make them a highly feasible choice for Vermont residents. Although the cost is comparable to traditional building materials, he noted that they offer greater value for money.
“What’s accurate is that the level of quality we’re achieving would surpass everything at current market rates,” McArleton clarified.
Moreover, the ready-made design of these houses ensures stable pricing and facilitates more accurate financial planning.
As the firm expands, McArleton mentioned that they’re achieving this in a rather distinctive manner. They’ve chosen to provide
intensive training
For those who want to build these homes, after receiving coaching for two years, they have the opportunity to start their own branch of New Frameworks and operate collaboratively instead of as competitors.
The firm takes pride in incorporating underrepresented voices into the construction sector, such as those from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Furthermore, McArleton mentioned that these houses sequester more carbon than they emit. Environmentally friendly and cost-effective, New Frameworks aims to transform the construction sector.
And we achieve this by building homes that will be sustainable, durable, and beneficial for local farming and suppliers, promoting healthiness and helping reduce atmospheric carbon,” stated McArleton. “Why wouldn’t we opt for such an approach?
