Here we share some observations about and snapshots of the Passive House we had built in Oakland County, Michigan. All photographs were taken by us unless otherwise noted.

Dense-pack dry cellulose insulation is now being installed by Spink Insulation. Holes are cut into the exterior fiber board into which the insulation is blown. This is done at various heights. The insulation cavities are formed by the air barrier on the interior side, the vertical twelve inch TJI joists on the sides, and the Minnesota fiber board on the outside. The holes are capped and airsealed after the insulation has been densely packed.

Cellulose insulation batting is being considered for the inside of the exterior walls.

Instead of a central HVAC system for heating and cooling, two ductless wall mounted mini splits will likely be specified for the house. Each of these units has a wall mounted compressor on the outside of the house and an interior wall mounted evaporator unit. The components are connected with a refrigerant loop. An additional line carries condensate away from the evaporator.

Michael installed the front door today. Like the windows, this unit is beautifully engineered with much attention paid to air sealing and insulation.