New Construction Process

From Blueprint to Move-In

JB's Home Energy

Step 1 : Energy calculations

When a builder has blueprints ready to get a new home started and needs to get the documents for his permit. The builder sends us the blueprints for the home with a “builder information sheet” telling me what he is going to be putting into the home as far as insulation, windows, doors, and HVAC is concerned. Our team then models out the home ensuring what is being put into the home will meet code standards. Once that process is complete, the builder is provided the energy compliance documents needed to get their permit.

Air and Dict Sealing

Step 2 : Air sealing / duct sealing

Once the home is framed and rough mechanicals are complete we come into the home and seal all penetrations in the home and HVAC system to ensure that air is not leaking into them. The blower door and duct leakage test confirm this seal has happened. This service ensures that a builder will pass the tests needed at the end.

Thermal Bypass Inspection

Step 3 : Thermal Bypass Inspection (Insulation inspection)

Once the home is insulated we come in and make sure that everything that was modeled in the home was actually installed. We document insulation, window, HVAC, specs and ensure that the home will pass the blower door and duct leakage test once drywall is put up.

Blower Door and Duct Leakage Testing

Step 4 : Blower Door & Duct Leakage Test

A blower door and duct blaster test is required on every new home in America in order to get an occupancy permit. The best time to do a blower door test is once the carpet in the home has been laid and the thermal envelope is sealed. This test ensures that the air leakage in the home and duct system is at an acceptable level for code requirements.

Renovation & Additions

(Massachusetts Only)

Energy Calculations

Step 1 : Initial Inspection / Modeling & Registration

A homeowner will schedule an initial inspection with JB’s Home Energy to get a baseline on where the home stands. The Mass Save® Program pays participants based on the energy savings that they have created from pre to post construction. At the same time of initial inspection, our team will model the home on the Mass Save® approved software for rebates and register the homeowner for rebate incentives.

Thermal Bypass Inspection

Step 2 : Thermal Bypass Inspection (Insulation inspection)

Once the home is insulated our team will come out and document anything and everything new that was installed in the home. The more things that are replaced the higher your incentive will be due to creating more energy efficiency. This is the most important step in the process, if an insulation inspection is missed on a home, it will not qualify for incentives.

Blower Door and Duct Leakage Testing

Step 3 : Final inspection

Once the home is completely finished, our team will come in and complete the final inspection. During this inspection we are running a blower door test, gathering pictures of anything else new that has been installed in the home and submitting the home for the utility incentive. Checks from utility companies and Mass Save® are typically mailed out 10-12 weeks after the final inspection.

Step 4 : Collect Incentive money

Clients using the Mass Save® Program can qualify for up to $20,000 in incentives for renovation and addition work being done to the home.