Robert Dorsey holds a chunk of structural insulated panel (SIP) that was cut out of his study wall for a window. Six inches of foam is sandwiched between sheathing to provide support and insulation for the exterior walls.

The Nu-Air ventilation machine ensures that equal amounts of fresh air comes into the house as stale air leaves it. In airtight houses, like Dorsey's, the heat recovery system is necessary for air quality and to prevent condensation from forming in the house.

Tubes distribute water to each faucet throughout the Dorsey house.

The wood beams were made from ash trees cut on Dorsey's farm in Lincoln County.