Simplified, stylized drawing of a house with multiple rooflines, a chimney, and a garage, in black, gray, white, and green colors.

Passive House Standards

Why Passive House?

Passive House (or "Passivhaus") is the most rigorous building energy standard in the world. Originating in Germany and refined in the U.S. by PHIUS (Passive House Institute U.S.), this method results in ultra-efficient, comfortable, and durable homes.

Certified Build offers PHIUS+ certification as an optional upgrade for Bespoke-level clients seeking the highest level of performance and indoor air quality in new construction.

Certified Build – Optional PHIUS Upgrade for Bespoke Clients

Open-concept living room and kitchen with high vaulted ceiling, exposed wooden beams, large sliding glass doors, white walls, beige sofas, brown leather chairs, and modern decor.

Learn More About PHIUS Certified Homes

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The 5 Core Passive House Principles

Continuous Insulation – A super-insulated envelope that dramatically reduces heating and cooling demand.
Thermal-Bridge-Free Design – Smart detailing that eliminates weak points where heat and cold can transfer through the building shell.
Airtight Construction – Exceptional envelope sealing and testing to reduce drafts, moisture infiltration, and energy loss.
High-Performance Windows & Doors – Triple-pane, argon-filled glazing with tight seals and solar orientation strategies.
Balanced Ventilation with Energy Recovery – Continuous fresh air from energy recovery ventilation (ERV/HRV), such as Zehnder systems.

Certified Build: Passive House Aligned

Our approach integrates many Passive House principles — even on non-certified projects, especially in:

Roof and wall assemblies designed per BSI-145 guidance
Climate Zone 5 vapor and thermal control using 5-10-20-40-60 targets
High-efficiency HVAC design with Zehnder, Unico, or Mitsubishi systems
Window and door packages selected for U-factor, SHGC, and air leakage performance
Blower door testing and airtightness goals far exceeding code minimums

Passive Energy Design – with Energy Vanguard

Certified Build works with industry-leading building science professionals like Energy Vanguard to ensure
best-in-class HVAC and envelope performance design. For PHIUS+ and Passive-aligned builds, we coordinate:

HVAC design using Manual J, S, and D load calculations
Duct layout and pressure balancing
Energy modeling to support PHIUS+ or Zero Energy Ready Home targets
Air sealing strategy support to meet <0.6 ACH50 goals

Whether you're pursuing full PHIUS certification or simply want a quiet, efficient,
low-load home, Energy Vanguard’s engineering aligns seamlessly with our construction detailing.

Optional PHIUS+ Certification – Bespoke Projects Only

For homeowners seeking full PHIUS+ certification:

We partner with certified third-party raters such as Red Fox Inspections, who can verify PHIUS
performance standards without requiring a separate architect
Design and detailing may be coordinated with one of our architectural partners, including **Imprint Architects
(Karl Chambers) or Steven Baczek, both familiar with advanced enclosure systems and high-performance detailing
Certification includes rigorous energy modeling, on-site verification, and final documentation

Typical benefits:

Up to 90% reduction in heating and cooling energy use
Continuous filtered fresh air – ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers
Whisper-quiet interior comfort year-round
Massive reduction in operational carbon footprint

A Home That Reflects Purpose

We believe in building with intent: health, stewardship, craftsmanship, and legacy. For clients who desire the very best
in building science and sustainable performance, the Passive House path is the most complete expression of our mission.

Ask us about making your Certified Build a Passive House Certified Build — designed for resilience, built for generations.