Many home improvement projects begin when a home owner recognizes specific shortcomings of the house (outdated appliances, not enough communal space, small master bathroom, etc.) and then begins to envision a solution. These ideas grow and take shape when viewing home improvements programs and design and architectural magazines. Home owners may even hire an architect to draw up a set of plans and obtain the necessary building permits. It is only then that the home owner contacts general contractors to bid on the project.

This hierarchal and sequential process in the design, budgeting, bidding and construction of home improvements ignores the interaction between the different house design characteristics and how the house performs.

Through energy modeling software and field testing, Aspen Enterprises can assist a homeowner throughout the design process to provide the information needed to understand how changes affect performance. The goal is not to convince a home owner to add or take away features, but rather to understand the performance repercussions of design changes. Some design changes may improve energy performance, while other changes may dramatically decrease performance. Without proper testing and modeling, a homeowner 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 budget costs of the project. And that’s not including the added benefits that the homeowner receives in lower energy bills, a more comfortable and durable house, a healthier indoor climate, and doing right by the environment.

Aspen Enterprises can provide the testing, modeling, knowledge, and expertise to understand your home from a whole house perspective, and to make your remodeling project result in a superior home for you and your family.