Almost Dead-Zero Energy Bills: A Net-Zero Home in East Texas

How Wright-Way Built a 5,000 sq ft Luxury Home That Costs $20–$40 a Month to Run

A modern brick house featuring solar panels on its roof, surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a commitment to sustainable living and renewable energy.

At Wright-Way Services (12863 CR 192, Tyler, TX), we love helping clients achieve true energy independence. The Wingard residence is one of our standout projects — a stunning 5,000 sq ft custom home that delivers luxury living with incredibly low operating costs.

From Oklahoma Net-Zero to East Texas Reality

The family had lived in a net-zero home in Oklahoma with geothermal and ICF construction. After looking at over 20 existing homes in East Texas with their realtor, they decided none met their efficiency standards. So, they hired us to build exactly what they wanted.

The results speak for themselves:

• Typical monthly electric bills: $20 – $40

• Worst summer month: around $120

• Scored a Negative 2 on our efficiency rating

Extreme Energy Efficiency Features

• Highest R-value 2x6 wall system we’ve ever built: Advanced framing + 1¼" rigid foam insulation + Tyvek ThermoWrap → nearly R-40 walls

• Super-airtight envelope with proper flashing and sealed joints

• Balanced whole-house airflow design

• Generous 18-inch roof overhangs that shade windows year-round, dramatically reducing solar heat gain

• High-quality argon-filled insulated glass windows

• Oversized 4-ton air conditioner (runs far less because the home stays so efficient)

• Full solar array with solar thermal drain-back system on the roof

• Battery backup system (good for several days of minimal use during outages)

Elegant Design That Also Saves Energy

• Deep, tall entryway with significant outcropping: Shields the front door from direct sun and weather, keeping it near ambient temperature instead of 150°F+

• Beautiful brick and stone exterior with zero-scaping (later adjusted for HOA)

• Ornate interior with Baccarat crystal chandeliers, Venetian plaster walls, LED uplighting, and custom crown molding with hidden lighting

• FSC-certified Natty Alder cabinetry and built-ins throughout (same sustainable lumber used on our other premium projects)

• Real hardwood floors (including beautiful reclaimed Tigerwood brought by the owners)

Luxury Without Compromise

This home proved you can have old-world elegance, high-end finishes, and dramatic curb appeal without sky-high utility bills. While neighboring homes in the same neighborhood were running $300–$1,000+ per month in summer, this home stayed ultra-efficient year-round.