I really want to build a new green home soon. I have some money set aside and seeing as how I may be able to get things done a little cheaper right now, I wanted to see about doing this before the market bounces back.

I was hoping that someone could help me to understand what the best choice is for building techniques when it comes to going green.

I have heard of pre-fab, SIPs, ICFs, and all those things, but don't know anything about which is the right choice. It just seems like too much information.

I would really like to do this all myself with the help of some friends and maybe a subcontractor here and there for the really technical stuff.

So I ask.... HELP?

It all depends on what you want out of your house, where you live and what the design looks like,. Straw bale works best in dryer climates, but it doesn't mean it can't be used elsewhere. SIPs are a great option for some designs as are ICFs. You should probably work with a local green building professional to get a feel for what you options are. If you don't know how to find one, then I guess you could list some more specifics here and see what people come up with. Just be ready for opinions strewn in with some helpful information.

I think that SIPs are one of the better technologies for homes out there today, but a green home isn't just about the technology. Its about what you design and the simplification of form.

I can't see doing SIPs by myself at all. I do think that the way that ICFs work that a do-it-yourselfer could get the whole thing ready and just have the truck come and poor the concrete. Am I right with that assumption?

Even though ICFs are much more in the line of do-it-yourself, it might be good to work with someone experienced, if only for the first day. An investment such as a home is something you don't want to screw up with poor construction or craftsmanship.

Do you really think a local builder would come out and help me just for one day, teach me how to do things that he could charge me for? I don't see that as likely. Could I learn what I need to do from a book?