At P.E.A. Builders, we design and construct high-performance homes that prioritize durability, efficiency, and occupant health. This cottage-style home integrates sustainable systems and materials while meeting the client’s need for a healthy indoor environment.
The homeowners requested careful material selection due to prior health concerns. Standard practices were elevated with low-toxicity and low-dust solutions, including Marmoleum flooring, prefinished engineered wood flooring (to reduce on-site dust), and full maple cabinetry assembled with no-added-chemical adhesives. Mold-retardant paint was applied in the garage and shed. Job site cleanliness and indoor air quality were key priorities throughout construction.
Each P.E.A. Builders home includes an air exchanger, delivering fresh air approximately 4 times per day to maintain consistent indoor air quality.
Site and layout decisions supported the homeowners’ goal of maintaining a natural backyard habitat. The design includes a deck with direct ground access and an attached shed oriented toward the backyard for convenient storage and use of gardening tools.
Energy performance is driven by a high-efficiency building envelope. The Tier 1 hybrid wall system includes:
• 2” closed-cell spray foam
• 2” R-13 continuous polyiso exterior insulation
• Taped sheathing with integrated drainage plane
• Total wall performance: R-26 to R-28
Additional envelope specifications:
• Foundation: 2” high-density polystyrene foam (under slab and exterior)
• Attic: 2” closed-cell spray foam plus R-50 blown cellulose (Total R-65)
• Siding: LP SmartSide engineered wood for durability and longevity
The home is all-electric and powered by an 8 kW grid-tied photovoltaic solar system, sized to meet operational demand.
Performance testing by a certified energy rater resulted in a HERS Index of 23—approximately 53.5% more efficient than current Wisconsin state building code requirements.
This project demonstrates how targeted material choices, efficient systems, and thoughtful design can deliver a healthy, durable, and energy-efficient home.
