Residential Building Science

High-Performance Homes. Built Right.

Building Science · Energy · Thermal Comfort · HVAC · Passive Design

Building science, energy, thermal comfort, and HVAC consulting for new home construction. For builders and homeowners who want it done right. From envelope optimization to mechanical system selection to whole-building energy analysis, we bring engineering rigor to every project.

Why High-Performance Matters

A well-designed, properly constructed high-performance home delivers more than lower utility bills. It provides consistent comfort, better air quality, quieter interiors, and resilience in the face of extreme weather.

Too many residential projects rely on rule-of-thumb approaches that overlook the interconnected behavior of building envelope, mechanical systems, and passive design.

Our residential consulting includes:

  • Building envelope performance optimization
  • Thermal bridging analysis and recommendations
  • Passive design strategy guidance
  • HVAC system selection and sizing review
  • Ventilation design per ASHRAE 62.2
  • Load calculations and energy modeling

What's Included

Envelope Performance Optimization

Insulation strategy, air sealing, fenestration selection, and thermal bridging minimization. We review design intent and construction sequencing to ensure the envelope is built to specification.

Mechanical System Selection Review

HVAC equipment sizing, ductwork design, and ventilation layout. We follow ACCA sizing methodologies to ensure equipment is matched to the actual building load.

Passive Design Strategy Guidance

Orientation optimization, shading design, thermal mass strategy, and natural ventilation potential. Early-phase input that shapes the overall design approach for maximum performance.

Load Calculations & HVAC Design

ACCA Manual J heating and cooling loads, ductwork sizing per Manual D, and ventilation per ASHRAE 62.2. Stamped calculations delivered for your records.

Building Performance Simulation

Whole-building energy analysis to forecast operating costs, identify savings opportunities, and validate design choices before construction begins. Inform decisions with data, not guesses.

Utility Program Coordination

Guidance on ENERGY STAR, local utility rebates, and incentive program alignment. We know the programs, the documentation requirements, and how to structure the project to maximize available funding.

Tools & Methodology

We use industry-standard tools paired with building science fundamentals to deliver deep analysis and actionable recommendations. Every analysis is documented and explained so you understand the reasoning behind our conclusions.

  • BEopt: Whole-building optimization and energy analysis
  • THERM: Thermal bridging and heat transfer analysis
  • ACCA Manual J: Industry-standard load calculation methodology
  • ASHRAE 62.2: Residential ventilation design
  • Building Science: Air flow, thermal dynamics, comfort analysis

Certifications & Training

ENERGY STAR NextGen Certified trainer for next-generation ENERGY STAR residential programs.
DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Certified in DOE's highest-tier residential energy performance program.
PE Licensed Professional Engineer. Institutional-grade engineering rigor applied to residential consulting.
CEM Certified Energy Manager. Energy analysis, optimization, and program coordination expertise.
HERS Rater RESNET certified. Residential energy rating, field testing, performance verification, and rating authority.
ASHRAE Professional member. Active in standards development and the HVAC and building science community.

Ready to Build Better?

Whether you are a custom home builder, production builder, architect, or homeowner building new, we bring engineering rigor to residential consulting. Reach out and let's talk about your project.