Earth Day Spotlight: Passive House Farmhouse
What Is a Passive House and Why Windows and Doors Matter More Than You Think
Passive House isn’t just about energy efficiency - it’s a building standard that prioritizes comfort, air quality, and long-term performance. At the heart of it all? Thoughtfully engineered windows and doors.
The Basics: What Is a Passive House?
A Passive House (or Passivhaus) is designed to drastically reduce the need for traditional heating and cooling - up to 90% less energy than conventional buildings, according to the Passive House Institute. It relies on five key principles:
- Superinsulation
- Airtight construction
- High-performance windows and doors
- Thermal bridge-free design
- Heat recovery ventilation
While each principle plays a role, windows and doors are often the most visible - and most underestimated- components of Passive House success.
Why Windows and Doors Are So Critical
Unlike walls, windows and doors must do two things at once: let in light and air while still insulating and sealing. In a Passive House, they’re not an afterthought - they're performance tools. Here's why:
- Triple glazing helps control heat gain/loss and improves acoustics
- Thermal breaks in frames prevent energy transfer
- Airtight seals reduce drafts and energy leaks
- Proper installation ensures alignment with the building envelope
- Even the best Passive House design can underperform if the windows and doors aren’t up to standard - or if they’re not installed with care.
If you're considering Passive House principles for your next project, start with the right building envelope - and that includes windows and doors built for the task.
Check out our featured Passive House Project: Passive House Farmhouse
