Concrete Homes

As people look for more energy-efficient homes, concrete -- which stays warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and is both fire and storm resistant -- is gaining popularity. A look at three concrete homes.

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PLACE/PRICE: Bolingbrook, Ill. / $619,900

PROPERTY TAX*: 12,000 to $14,000 per year

THE PROPERTY: 3,800 square feet, with 4 bdrms, 3 baths, about 25 miles west of Chicago

DESCRIPTION: The kitchen comes with custom cabinetry and French doors that lead to a deck. The master suite has his and her closets.

NOTABLE: Newly constructed home's framing is entirely made from concrete paneling -- the walls, floors and ceilings -- to make the house soundproof and tornado proof.

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PLACE/PRICE: Frisco, Texas / $899,900

PROPERTY TAX*: $20,115 per year

THE PROPERTY: 3,800 square feet, with 4 bdrms, 4 baths, on the north edge of Dallas

DESCRIPTION: The home runs on 8-kilowatt solar electric power and comes with special windows that let in more light than regular windows.

NOTABLE: Has heated concrete floors, concrete countertops, concrete-filled exterior walls. The exterior is covered with fiber-cement wood and concrete artificial-stone exterior.

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PLACE/PRICE: Cary, N.C. / $2.695 million

PROPERTY TAX*: $15,278 per year

THE PROPERTY: 9,789 square feet, with 6 bdrms, 6 baths and 4 half-baths in a Raleigh suburb

DESCRIPTION: English-style home includes a gourmet kitchen, wine cellar with tasting room, home theater and covered terrace.

NOTABLE: Solid concrete surface makes up the exterior and interior walls, floors and the roof deck, as well as porches. Radiant heat flooring in the basement and first floor.

Note: *Current owner's payment

Sources: higginsdreamteam.com; zeroenergyhomedallas.com; rufty.com; and Portland Cement Association Market Research Department

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