The concept was developed in Germany in 1988, and was known as “passivhaus.” It involves continuous insulation throughout the structure without the use of thermal bridging. Passive house construction is airtight, and is further enhanced by high-efficiency doors and windows, preventing both infiltration of outside air as well as loss of conditioned air.
Expensive yet efficient
A home certified by the US Passive House Institute may cost more upfront compared to regular homes, but the extra cost is mitigated to heating and air conditioning. For example, heating and cooling for a 2,500-square-foot home with a passive design can cost only around $500 to $800 a year, which is about the equivalent of the monthly cost of a regular home.
One common misconception about passive homes is they usually look boxy and minimalistic, but the truth is, the design can be accommodated by structures of any size and style.
Passive Homes in Fairfield County
This trend is currently gaining increased momentum, and has arrived at Fairfield County, where two developers introduced the concept to both residential and commercial markets.
Construction Management Group (CMG), which is based in New Canaan has already finished two passive homes in North Stamford, while two more are scheduled for completion in New Canaan. Another company behind the passive house concept is BPC Green Builders in Wilton, which has completed two properties certified by the Passive House Institute. One is located in Watertown, while the other is in Danbury, the first in the state to have earned the certification.
The two companies expect more projects within the coming years, and more and more builders are beginning to see the potential of the passive housing standard.
