Energy Savings

We know that a home is one of our customer's largest investments. But at New Tradition Homes we know that it's so much more than just a house. It's a safe haven, a nest egg, a place where families grow, celebrate holidays, play, and work - it's where our customers do life. 

That's why our team works hard every day to make sure every home we build is to a higher standard.  Because a better built home starts from the ground up. When it comes to energy efficiency and durable construction, it's what's behind the walls that really matters. 

Our journey to energy efficient and sustainable construction began in 2005, making us one of the first pioneers in the industry to adopt energy efficient and better building practices. Our In-House Building Science Team is dedicated to designing and constructing homes that are energy efficient, healthier, more durable, comfortable, and environmentally sustainable. New Tradition Homes continues to be the Northwest’s leader in green building practices and is committed to building 100% of our homes to a higher standard. Our ‘Built for Life’ program encompasses our approach to innovative development, enduring design, lasting value, and cost savings for your family.

Not all homes are built alike. When it comes to your home, it’s what’s behind the walls that counts. All our homes are designed to exceed local energy codes and are third-party certified by ENERGY STAR®.  We are a RESNET Energy Smart Builder®, and every home we build comes with a HERS Score (a home energy rating) so you know how much money you will save each month on your utility bills. 

Our homes are also performance tested for air loss, moisture and undergo a complete systems analysis. With high performance windows, a high efficiency furnace, advanced insulation, filtered fresh air, and performance tested wall systems, your home stays comfortable all year round... with lower utility bills! 

New Tradition Homes began our partnership with the EPA's ENERGY STAR® Program in 2004, pioneering the way for this program in the Pacific Northwest.  We received 7 consecutive Regional ES Awards until 2016, when we began receiving this honor on the National Level. 

We are proud to have recently received the 2022 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award for continued leadership and superior contributions to ENERGY STAR® by the US Dept. of Energy. 

ENERGY STAR® Certified new homes offer better efficiency and performance compared to other homes. Our homes are at least 10% more efficient than a home built just to code. Homes with this designation also have better comfort, healthier air, and a higher resale value. 

We are committed to building 100% of our homes to meet this higher standard.  Learn more about the benefits of an ENERGY STAR® Certified home.

New Tradition Homes has earned the designation by RESNET® (Residential Energy Services Network) as an Energy Smart Builder.  

Each home we build is energy rated by a 3rd party, and each customer receives a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) score on their new home.  These scores tell homebuyers at a glance how energy efficient those homes are. And that means they can make informed decisions when choosing a home.

The HERS Score is like an MPG rating for your home. You wouldn't buy a car without knowing the MPG rating, right?  We think homes should be the same. HERS rated homes with low HERS Index scores are more energy efficient than standard homes. This translates into increased home comfort, lower utility costs and a more environmentally friendly home. 

Learn more about our HERS ratings. 

New Tradition Homes cares greatly about our environment and building sustainably. That's why we have our own In-House Building Science Team, dedicated to research and ongoing innovations in best green building practices. Every single home we build is crafted to these higher standards. 

BENEFITS OF BUILDING GREEN

SAVINGS

A green built typically saves money on operating and maintenance costs through more efficient energy use, utilizing features such as extra insulation and more efficient water heaters, lighting and appliances. The use of natural daylighting techniques can also reduce energy consumption. Efficiency means more money in your pocket!

HEALTHIER, MORE COMFORTABLE LIVING

No need to worry about that stinky coat of paint or new carpet smell. Using low VOC and low toxic interior paints and finishes reduces toxins and increases indoor air quality in a home. This makes the home healthier and more comfortable for you and your family.

CONSERVES NATURAL RESOURCES

Rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo, cork and strawboard can be managed, grown and harvested in a sustainable way and can effectively replace traditional lumber. Countertops made from recycled glass, concrete and paper are aesthetically pleasing and eliminate the use of traditional or precious stones. From flooring to cabinetry to building materials, there are hundreds of cost-effective, sustainable options on the market today!

HEALTHIER HABITAT

Water conservation can be achieved by planting drought tolerant landscaping and avoiding turf grass. Pervious pavement can be used in driveways and walkways to allow rainwater to seep into the ground instead adding to polluting stormwater runoff. Erosion control methods are used to help reduce sedimentation into streams and protect the natural features of the site. All of these methods benefit aquatic habitat which makes for healthier ecosystems.

REDUCES YOUR FOOTPRINT

Building a more efficient home reduces your water, energy and carbon footprints. By reducing your energy and water use, you conserve resources and have less of an impact on the climate and the environment—which makes for a healthier, happier planet.