Since its introduction and proliferation in the mid 20th Century, the detached wood frame single-family home has come to epitomize American housing.

Because of the widespread popularity of this typology it is critical to adapt to the Passive House standard. The existing building, located in in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, NY is a 3-story wood framed house built in 1907. The building was designed in the Victorian style typical of the area, and it’s characteristic features were largely preserved in the renovation. The existing structure was uninsulated 2x4 wood framed walls. The existing windows and building exterior were poorly maintained and in need of replacement, making the project a perfect candidate for an EnerPHit retrofit. The general scope of work included re-cladding and insulating the building envelope, updating interior finishes, and opening up the floor plan to improve functionality of interior spaces. The specific items that were replaced include:

• Removal of exterior cladding and windows

• New sheathing / air barrier

• New continuous exterior insulation

• New triple glazed windows

• New ERV and air handler unit for heating and cooling

• New heat pump hot water heater

• New interior finishes

• New foundation waterproofing, insulation, and drainage