Advantages of High-Performance Homes

High-Performance Homes: The Key to a Sustainable, Comfortable, Healthy, and Affordable Home.

High-performance homes are designed to be energy-efficient homes – homes that are comfortable, durable and healthy. They use less energy than traditional homes, which can save you money on your energy bills. They also have better insulation and air quality, which can improve your comfort and health.

Don’t we mean “green homes” or “sustainable homes”?

Yes and no. The reason why we call them high-performance homes, is because the terms “green” and “sustainable” have become so overused and misused that they have lost some of their meaning. For example, a product may be labeled as “green” simply because it is made from recycled materials, even if it is not actually a very energy-efficient.

By calling them high-performance homes, we are trying to be more specific about what we mean – a home that is designed and built to be energy-efficient, comfortable, durable and healthy. It is a home that performs well in all of these areas, not just one or two.

We also want to avoid the implication that high-performance homes are only for people who are concerned about the environment. These are energy-efficient homes can be a good choice for anyone who wants to save money on their energy bills, improve their comfort, and live in a healthier home.

Here are some other reasons why we call them high-performance homes:

  • The term “high-performance” is more objective than the terms “green” or “sustainable”. It is based on measurable criteria, such as energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality.
  • The term “high-performance” is more accurate. It describes the way that these homes perform, rather than making a subjective judgment about their environmental impact, hence, a high-performance home is an energy-efficient home.
  • The term “high-performance” is more appealing to a wider range of people. It is not as likely to be dismissed by people who are not concerned about the environment.

Here are some of the key benefits of high-performance homes:

  • Lower energy bills: high-performance homes use less energy to heat and cool, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your energy bills each year.
  • Increased property value: high-performance homes are in high demand, so they tend to sell for more than traditional homes. This makes them a wise investment for the future.
  • Enhanced comfort:  high-performance homes are better insulated, so they stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. They also have better air quality, which can help you breathe easier and feel more comfortable.
  • Healthier living environments: high-performance homes are built with materials that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful chemicals that can off-gas from building materials. This can help improve your health and reduce your risk of respiratory problems.
  • Reduced maintenance costs: high-performance homes are designed to be more durable and require less maintenance than traditional homes. This can save you money in the long run.

If you are thinking about buying or building a home, a high-performance home is a wise choice. It can save you money, improve your comfort and health, and increase the value of your property.

Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a high-performance home:

When considering purchasing or building a home, opting for a high-performance home is a prudent choice. The benefits extend beyond environmental considerations, encompassing substantial financial advantages.

  • The location of the home. Homes in warm climates will need different features than homes in cold climates.
  • The size of the home. Larger homes will require more energy to heat and cool.
  • The age of the home. Older homes may not be as energy-efficient as newer homes.
  • The features of the home. Some features, such as solar panels or energy-efficient appliances, can add to the cost of the home but can also save you money in the long run.

If you are interested in learning more about high-performance homes, there are many resources available online and in your local community. You can also talk to one of our certified and qualified builders or architects to get their recommendations.

Vocabulary

What are other terms people might use:

  • Energy-efficient homes
  • Comfortable homes
  • Healthy homes
  • Green homes
  • Sustainable homes
  • Net-zero homes
  • Passive homes
  • LEED homes
  • Energy Star homes
https://buildingscience.org/for-homeowners/

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