Most home builders have a hierarchal and sequential process in the design, job costing, sale, and construction of their homes. While some feedback between the field and the office occurs, most design decisions are made based upon limited information about how certain features may affect overall home performance. For example, a two-story wall of windows may make a striking impression upon a visiting customer, but little analysis is usually done to see how that feature will affect the heating and cooling systems, comfort levels, house durability, or energy costs.

Through energy modeling software and field testing, Aspen Enterprises can assist a builder throughout the design process to provide the information needed to understand how changes affect performance. The goal is not to convince a designer to add or take away features, but rather to understand the performance repercussions of design changes. Some design changes may improve both performance, while others may dramatically decrease performance. Without proper testing and modeling, a home builder cannot make a fully informed design decision.

Design consultation extends beyond those architectural features that a home buyer may see. The design of the wall systems, roof systems, lighting and mechanical systems all interact with each other and the home owner. Emerging technologies and materials can provide considerable home performance improvement. Additionally, many improvements may not only decrease the operational costs of the home for the customer, but they can decrease the initial direct costs for the builder. And that’s not including the benefits that the homebuilder receives in higher customer satisfaction, less callbacks, higher brand loyalty, and better marketability.

Aspen Enterprises can provide the testing, modeling, knowledge, and expertise to understand your product from a whole house perspective, and to provide your customer with a superior home.