so what is high performance

So what is a high-performing home?

We believe it is the combination of maximising our buildings' energy efficiency and durability, ensuring that it provides a safe, healthy and comfortable environment for its occupants to live in. But before we go further, it's important to note that a high-performance home does not mean it is a passive house (Passivhaus).

A certified passive house is a building resulting from strict design and construction metrics being met. For a home to be classified as a passive house, it must be certified. If the home is not certified, it is not a passive house. This is where high performance enters the conversation. A high-performance home can be almost as good as a passive house. It can follow many of the same principles but does not demand the rigorous testing that a passive house does.

Unfortunately, there is no specific description of what "high performance" is so we want to share with you our cheat sheet on what we consider high performing using the data and knowledge we have today. It is very important to note that a high-performance home is not about picking and choosing some of these concepts; it's an all-or-nothing approach. Many of these principles have a flow-on effect; for example, if you wrap the hope correctly, you should be airtight, which means you then need mechanical ventilation. If you remove any of these high-performance criteria, you put yourself at a high risk of building failure in the future.

Please note this guide is for those who build and design in a cool temperate climate, ie Melbourne. Our projects are located in the inner suburbs of Melbourne, and this cheat sheet applies to those projects. As sustainable builders in Melbourne who specialise in passive house construction, we believe we have a duty of care to make sure our builders are built healthy, comfortable and energy efficient.

The advice provided herein is of a general nature and should not be considered as a substitute for professional or personalised guidance. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided, we cannot guarantee its completeness or applicability to your specific circumstances as every home and project is different. The advice offered is intended to serve as a starting point for your own research and decision-making. It is important to consult with relevant experts or professionals to obtain advice tailored to your individual needs. We disclaim any liability for damages or losses arising from the use or reliance on the information provided.