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There are four elements to Passivhaus (phius.org). Thermal control, air control, radiation control, and moisture control. We have thought through the process to ensure our building fits the highest passivhaus standards available in Michigan.
Passivhaus does not add substantial costs [1] to the construction of buildings. While it may add 1-2% to capital costs in the present day, this is equalized by a reduction in operating expenses over time. Additionally, building Passivhaus is an investment for the future - the more institutional knowledge there is, the more opportunity locally.
Thermal control
Thermal control
Our Ecococon straw panel is Passivhaus-ready. Its strong insulation capabilites will allow us to have a high-performance enclosure for our structure.
The intentional single-stair design of our structure, with minimal exterior modulation and clean and simple lines eliminates the surface area for energy to escape, cutting down on potential thermal bridges.
Air control
Air control
We need to ensure airtightness and balanced ventilation with heat and moisture recovery. We plan to work with Mitsubishi Comfort [2] and local contractors that have worked on existing passivhaus developments.
Radiation control
Radiation control
We are using very high quality windows. Also, old aged trees surrounding the property give us shade.
Moisture control
Moisture control
Ecococon paneling is made of straw and has high quality moisture retention. Proper mechanical system selection, which will be able to get through work with Mitsubishi Comfort, as well as commissioning will help us maintain the proper moisture level in our building.
Sources
Phius Alliance Cost Data - https://www.phius.org/resources/policy-work/cost-data
Mitsubishi Comfort Ann Arbor Passivhaus Case Study - https://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/case-studies/ann-arbor-passive-house
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