Pretty Good House

How it started

The Pretty Good House idea grew out of a building science discussion group in Portland that Dan Kolbert moderated for a decade. It is not a “how-to” as much as a “why-to”, a guide to thinking through the critical issues of weather protection, air leakage, insulation, and vapor control without prescribing a solution beforehand. The goal is to design and build a house as a system, where all the pieces work together rather than at cross purposes.

The book grew out of a desire to share our thoughts and conclusions with a wider audience. Whether a homeowner, prospective homeowner, builder or designer, the book will help figure out how to build higher performing, lower impact buildings that are durable, safe and healthy for occupants and the environment, all while keeping an eye on the budget.

Not surprisingly, at Kolbert Building we are guided by these lessons in every project we take on.