If you will be building new in NH (climate zone 6), it seems a shame not to make it "superinsulated." You have one shot at doing it right, not just building "to code." Most people have no experience with living in such a house, but those who have lived in one understand that it is more comfortable, year round. Then of course the winter heating bill is far lower, and the house is practically freeze-proof. But from a practical point of view, you can't assume that whatever builder you pick knows how to build such a house. You have to do your homework. Start with a search on "pretty good house" over on greenbuildingadvisor.com, or a look at the myriad articles on the subject at buildingscience.com. OK, I've made my pitch.
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