What We Don’t Do

We Don’t Use Fiberglass Batt Insulation

  • It’s production requires a huge amount of energy unlike the cellulose we prefer.
  • Even when installed perfectly it is prone to gaps unlike a blown in or sprayed product.
  • It provides very little protection from air infiltration.
  • It’s actual R-Value performance degrades in adverse conditions. In other words, it is at its worst when you need it the most.

We Don’t Install Vinyl Siding

  • PVC (the main ingredient in vinyl siding) manufacturing is incredibly inefficient and toxic.
  • It releases harmful toxins throughout it’s life cycle. Bad for our workers. Bad for your family.
  • This stuff is very unpleasant in the unfortunate event of a fire.

We Don’t Install Single/Double Hung Windows

  • They don’t seal well which allows too much air into your home when you would rather it stayed out.
  • You can only open 50% of the window which means they don’t let in as much air as you might want.
  • The casement and awning style windows we use perform much better.

We Don’t Rely on the Natural Leakiness of the Home to Provide Fresh Air

  • Passive ventilation (air blowing in through the cracks) isn’t enough in a tight home. We always provide mechanical ventilation to maintain extremely high indoor air quality.
  • Energy loss through sub-standard ventilation (bath fans, whole house fans) can make a significant difference in the efficiency and cost of your home compared to the energy savings of the HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) or ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) we will insist upon.

We Don’t Coat Your Home with Toxins

  • Toxic paints and finishes have been shown to cause numerous health problems and are suspected of many unproven health consequences.
  • Nobody sane likes the smell of chemicals in their home.
  • Low-VOC options for paints and finishes are readily available and similar in cost.

We Don’t Waste Water Without Reason

  • Faucets and other plumbing fixtures can cost you and the environment. Low flow fixtures are a very easy and affordable fix.
  • One flush toilets are are often a huge waste. Dual flushing options make water conservation as easy as pushing a button.
  • Rain is a valuable resource, particularly if you have plants to keep alive. We always help you find a way to collect it and use it.

We Don’t Install Inefficient HVAC Systems

  • Sizing an HVAC system is incredibly important, and we take it very seriously.
  • Proper duct design can save energy and money. We don’t just haphazardly install ducts.
  • Many builders aim for the minimums in HVAC equipment performance. We are always looking for the best performing, most cost effective system.
  • Properly pressurized and sealed systems work better and more efficiently. We put a lot of attention into this.

We Don’t Place Windows Randomly

  • Orientation and size of windows can make a big difference in the performance of your home. We will work with your designer to make suggestions to improve window choices.
  • Daylighting is an important part of a comfortable and efficient home. We consider this when reviewing building plans and making recommendations.

We Don’t Build Anything Less Then Energy Star Certified Homes

  • Standards play an important role in keeping everyone honest.
  • We can’t imagine how we could build anything less than this and sleep at night.

We Don’t Inflate Our Prices Because We are Building Green

  • We have built this way before and know the actual costs.
  • We aren’t afraid of new technologies or methods.
  • We are experts at modifying projects while respecting your design and efficiency choices.