Building a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. We work with builders and
homeowners across the Wisconsin Northwoods, and nothing makes us happier than seeing a dream
come to life.
If you’re like most homeowners, you’re knee-deep in making decisions about countertops, floor plans,
and finishes. Energy efficiency is probably an afterthought… But it shouldn’t be!
You can have a beautifully built house and still end up with sky-high energy bills and comfort issues
because insulation is just one piece of the puzzle. The bigger question is how your entire home is
set up to perform.
This conversation about energy efficiency starts with your builder, well before construction ever begins.
Let’s go over the seven questions you should be asking.
Question 1: What Are Your Goals for This Home’s Energy Performance?
This is the most important question on the list. A good builder should have an answer.
Are they building to the minimum code? Are they aiming higher? Do they even know the difference? If
they can’t answer this clearly, that tells you something.
Code is the minimum. It’s the floor, not the ceiling. Some builders stop there. Others push further with
better air sealing, higher R-values, or energy certifications like a Focus on Energy rating. Know which
kind of builder you’re working with.
Question 2: What Does “A Good Job” Mean to You?
Every builder will tell you they do good work. But push further. What does that actually look like? What’s
the standard? “Good” should be the baseline, not the finish line. You want to know what’s beyond good.
Question 3: Are You Looking at the Whole Home for Energy Efficiency? Or Just Insulation?
Insulation matters a lot. But a well-insulated house can still be expensive to run if the mechanical
systems, windows, and air sealing aren’t dialed in.
Ask your builder how they’re thinking about the whole picture to ensure maximum efficiency. Heating,
cooling, and ventilation systems have a massive impact on your monthly bills.
Specifically, ask about:
● HVAC efficiency ratings
● Water heater type and efficiency
● Ventilation strategy
● How these systems work together
Question 4: Should We Pursue a Focus on Energy Rating?
Have you heard of this verified standard? Homes that earn a Focus on Energy certification in Wisconsin
are independently tested and inspected to meet strict energy performance guidelines set by the EPA.
Ask your builder whether they build to these standards or partner with someone who can help certify
the home. Not every builder does. But those who do are committing to a higher level of accountability.
Benefits include:
● Lower monthly energy costs
● Better indoor comfort and air quality
● Third-party verification that the home was built right
● Higher resale value
● Much more durable home
Question 5: How Do You Verify the Building Science?
A builder who tests their work stands behind it. A builder who doesn’t? You’re just taking their word for
it!
This one separates the pros from everyone else.
● Ask if they do a blower door test.
● Ask if they verify air sealing before drywall goes up.
● Ask how they know the insulation was installed correctly.
Question 6: Do You Understand MY Goals?
Your goals should shape how your home is built. Make sure your builder knows what they are!
But most homeowners have a hard time articulating this. They want a beautiful, functional home. They
don’t want to spend a fortune on energy bills. They still want comfort. But how do you put that into
words?
You don’t have to have a perfect, scientific answer, but it’s worth thinking through. Do you want the
most efficient home possible? Are you trying to hit a specific monthly energy budget? Are you planning
to live there for 30 years or sell in 10?
Energy Efficiency for Your New Home
Energy efficiency is about the whole home build – how it’s designed, built, tested, and verified. And the
best time to have this conversation is early in the process.
At RVI, we work alongside builders and homeowners across Northern Wisconsin to ensure these
questions are answered. A truly exceptional home isn’t just meeting code. It’s a house that performs the
way you expect it to – for years to come!
