Our definition of High Performance. 

High Performance for us starts with Efficiency Vermont's High Performance Level certification

This  level of performance has a very specific threshold or balance between energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness in achieving a Net Zero Energy (NZE) ready home for Vermont's climate. It was developed to maximize the pairing of Cold Climate Heat Pumps and balanced mechanical ventilation with now-available superior windows and higher levels of insulation and achievable airtightness.

We use this standard as a starting point because we believe that homes built to this standard cost less to own and are more healthy and comfortable environments to live in, vs code-built homes. We are looking to build homes that save money and are a financially smart investment. Much design time has been spent refining a construction process and a building envelope that achieves these goals as cost-effectively as possible.

Enrolling a home with Efficiency Vermont and achieving the High Performance tier also ensures that there is third-party verification of the energy efficiency and performance standards for your new home, along with the resources and incentives that go along with enrollment.

For us, energy efficiency is only part of the equation of high performance. Equally important is the increased health and comfort benefits of a high performance home, along with long-term durability and low maintenance that can be built into the home. 

Our homes generally exceed this High Performance Standard where the benefits outweigh the costs, and if a homeowner chooses, we are happy to build to the highest energy standard possible, such as Passive House.