Homes

Many homeowners think that putting up solar panels or a small wind turbine is the best way to make their house green. While these are admirable efforts, often energy generation is the final step toward a green building, not the first. A high performance home goes beyond renewable energy – it uses less energy to light, heat and cool; is healthier, more comfortable, and less expensive to operate. Further steps are taken to lower water use, build and furnish the home with durable, non-toxic materials and local materials, and provide greater environmental comfort to residents.

At The Jordan Institute we help clients visualize, design and build residences of many different types, from private residences to affordable housing to multi-family developments. We have extensive residential construction experience and know all the opportunities and challenges associated with homebuilding. Our goal is to help builders, architects, and homeowners achieve the most environmentally sound residences possible.

Leveille Residence, Grafton, NH, certification in process for LEED for Homes Silver  - passive solar, insulated panels over timberframe constructed from all onsite lumber, heat recovery ventilation, non-toxic finishes throughout


In general, the net cost of owning a green home is less than that of owning a conventional home. While the initial cost of a high performance home may be higher, when the long term costs including energy use are included, Green homes save money compared to a conventional home because they:

• Use less energy – between 30% and 60% less in homes case studies
• Use less water – in case studies, as high as 50% less
• Use non-toxic building materials that lower exposure to mold and mildew, reducing healthcare costs
• Make owners eligible for advantageous mortgage options with some lenders
• Lower home insurance premiums

The U.S. Green Building Council has named the Jordan Institute an official LEED for Homes provider, which allows us to lead consumers through this green building certification system from start to finish. LEED for Homes is an increasingly popular program that verifies high performance design and construction through third-party review and inspection.

To learn more about The Jordan Institute’s high performance homes services, please contact Hilary Harris.