It’ll stop them from using innovative building techniques to future proof your sustainable home.
Imagine investing in your dream home, only to face mould issues just a few years later.
Unfortunately, with many custom home builders clinging to outdated techniques and building houses like it’s the 1980s, this scenario is all too common – especially in homes built 5-7 years ago.
There’s no denying it – a high-performance home is more comfortable, more energy efficient, and more durable than a traditional home.
So why aren’t more custom home builders are embracing it, when it means less energy consumption, lower bills, and less maintenance for homeowners?
It all boils down to these 4 myths which are prevalent in the industry:
Myth #1: Airtight Construction Creates Mould
Some custom home builders hear about the current trend of airtight construction and go all-in on sealing things up. But they forget two critical steps: installing a proper ventilation system and eliminating thermal bridges.
As such, moisture gets trapped inside and creates a perfect storm for mould and poor air quality, leaving you with a home that feels stuffy, makes you sick, and costs you big in repair bills.
But if they embrace the right tools and building techniques they are able to easily and cost effectively build more precisely.
This precision ensures that gaps, cracks, or inconsistencies that could allow air leakage are minimised or eliminated. By visualising and adjusting these details in the design phase, the software ensures an airtight building envelope, which is crucial for moisture control and mould prevention.
Myth #2: Timber isn’t as Durable as Concrete or Brick
There’s a common misconception that timber (a fundamental building block in high-performance homes) isn’t as durable as concrete or brick.
Yet when properly protected from moisture, timber can last indefinitely.
Think about it: there are centuries-old timber buildings still standing today. This proves that, when installed correctly, it’s both a durable and sustainable choice for modern homes, despite the myriad differences in how we live now, compared to a century ago.
Myth #3: Prefabricated and Pre-Finished Materials are Low Quality
There’s a lingering myth that prefabricated and pre-finished materials used in high-performance homes are somehow inferior to traditional materials, leading people to believe they won’t last as long or perform as well.
In reality, these materials are engineered in a controlled, off-site environment, ensuring they are consistent, precise, and free from the variables that can compromise quality during on-site construction. This controlled process leads to fewer surprises during installation, significantly less on-site waste, and faster build times — all while maintaining high standards of durability and performance.
Myth #4: High-Performance Building Membranes are Unnecessary in Adelaide’s Climate
While some might think high-performance building membranes are only needed in extreme climates, Adelaide’s winter — with temperatures dropping as low as -2°C and regular rainfall — can actually create the perfect conditions for moisture-related problems.
Widely adopted in Europe, these advanced membranes act as a crucial moisture barrier, blocking external water from entering the home while allowing trapped moisture to escape. This keeps the structure dry, prevents mould and condensation, and supports air quality. By integrating these membranes, custom home builders can create more resilient homes with fewer long-term maintenance needs.
Summing It Up:
Build Smart, Build for the Future
In the end, choosing a high-performance home isn’t just about being energy efficient—it’s about enjoying real benefits that traditional builds can’t offer:
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Lower energy bills with efficient heating, cooling, and lighting systems
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A smaller carbon footprint, contributing to a sustainable future
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Less maintenance, thanks to durable materials that stand the test of time
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A healthier home with better air quality and reduced risk of mould
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Consistent comfort all year round without skyrocketing energy costs
By embracing modern building techniques, you’re not only creating a home that will last but one that’s better for your family and the planet.
But there’s more to building your dream home than what we’ve covered here.
That’s why we created this comprehensive guide for you:
The 5 Key Skills of an Energy Efficient Builder
This guide will help you navigate the construction process and avoid the pitfalls that far too many homeowners face.
Download it today so that a year from now, you can look back with confidence, knowing you partnered with a builder who’s ahead of the curve—not one stuck in the past, building homes like it’s 1980.
