Energy Star Difference
How D&D Homes Builds Energy Star Certified Homes
At D&D Homes, energy efficiency isn’t just a feature — it’s a commitment. Every home we build is carefully designed and constructed to meet the rigorous standards required to receive the Energy Star designation. From top to bottom, we integrate high-performance materials and smart building techniques that reduce energy use, lower utility costs, and increase year-round comfort. Here’s a look at the key steps we take to make every D&D Home more efficient, more comfortable, and better for the environment.
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Super-Insulated Attic
29% More Insulation Than Standard Code
Insulation is an important aspect of energy efficiency, and with Energy Star, the standard is higher, much higher. This is why our attic insulation is 29% more than code requires. Better insulation locks in heat during winter and keeps your home cooler in summer — all while reducing energy bills.
Advanced Wall Insulation
Foam-Sealed Walls Boost Standard Wall Insulation by 23%
Our wall insulation goes beyond the basics — foam sealing increases insulation performance by 23% over standard code and helps to seal the house, creating a more comfortable and efficient home.
Draft-Free Foundation
Foam-Sealed Foundation for Complete Air Barrier
We seal the foundation with high-performance foam to reduce the possibility of drafts from the ground up, helping to ensure every corner of your home stays comfortable year-round.
High-Performance Attic Sealing
XPS Foam Board for Superior Air and Thermal Barrier
We use extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam board in the attic to seal in comfort. This high-tech material reduces air leaks and boosts insulation by holding the wall insulation in place — a key to consistent indoor temperatures.
Energy-Efficient Windows
20% More Efficient Than Standard Code
Our ENERGY STAR® certified windows outperform standard models by 20%, minimizing heat transfer to keep your home cozy and energy-efficient year-round.
- U-Factor: A lower U-Factor means better insulation. Our windows are designed to reduce heat loss, keeping your indoor temperature more stable and your energy bills lower.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): With optimized SHGC, our windows help block unwanted heat from the sun in warmer months while letting in warmth during winter—perfect for year-round comfort.
- Visible Transmittance (VT): Our high-VT windows let in plenty of natural light without the heat, brightening your home while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
- Air Leakage: Tighter seals mean less air sneaks in or out. That means fewer drafts, more consistent indoor temperatures, and improved energy savings.
Together, these performance factors help you enjoy a quieter, more comfortable, and energy-smart home—season after season.
Airtight Ducts & High-Efficiency Heating
Cleaner Air, Lower Bills, Greater Comfort
We apply a specialized duct seal compound, instead of duct tape, to greatly reduce air leakage in the HVAC system. Reduced duct leakage results in less dust in your home and better performance from your system. Unlike traditional duct tape, which can degrade and lose adhesion over time, our advanced duct sealant provides a long-lasting, reliable seal that maintains HVAC system performance for years to come. Improved airflow means your system doesn’t have to work as hard, and when paired with our high-efficiency furnaces that use less natural gas, you’ll enjoy greater comfort and noticeable savings on your energy bills.
Radiant Barrier Roof Decking
Reflects Heat for a Cooler, More Efficient Home
We install radiant barrier decking in the roof to reduce the sun’s ability to heat up your attic. This smart layer dramatically reduces attic temperatures, lowers cooling costs, and keeps your entire home more comfortable — especially in hot climates.
Blower Door Testing
Blower Door Testing for Energy Star Certification in D&D Homes
As part of obtaining Energy Star Certification for D&D Homes, a third-party inspector conducts a blower door test to measure the home’s air leakage and overall energy efficiency. This process involves mounting a powerful fan into an exterior door frame to depressurize the home, which allows the inspector to identify unsealed cracks and openings where air may be escaping. By measuring the rate of airflow required to maintain a set pressure difference between the inside and outside, the inspector can determine the home’s airtightness. The results are then compared to Energy Star standards to ensure the home meets the strict requirements for energy efficiency. This independent verification is crucial in confirming that D&D Homes deliver high performance and comfort for homeowners.
Built for Efficiency. Designed for Life.
When you choose a D&D Home, you’re choosing more than just beautiful design — you’re investing in a home that performs. Our Energy Star Certified homes are built to last, save you money, and provide year-round comfort without compromise. With every layer, seal, and system working together, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a smarter, more efficient home.