I have a deep appreciation for both visionary architects and brilliant structural engineers. However, when it comes to selecting a structural engineer, I’m far more discerning. In fact, I’m willing to pay a premium for top-tier engineering talent—something I believe is often undervalued in the industry.

In my opinion, opting for a bargain-basement structural engineer is a risky move, and here’s why: when comparing the cost to build with the cost to design, the numbers speak for themselves. The total construction cost can easily be 10 to 50 times higher than the design and engineering fees. A highly skilled structural engineer, even if they charge more, can often reduce the overall construction costs by as much as 10%. That’s a far greater return on investment than saving a few bucks on engineering.

A great engineer will not only safeguard the integrity of your project, but their expertise can result in substantial savings in the long run. So, investing in quality engineering isn't just smart—it's essential.

The most important thing for us as homebuilders is to make homes that last, are comfortable and healthy, durable, don’t contain toxic chemicals and provide a safe and secure home for our clients and their families.

Over the many years that we have been building, through careful research, we have found that many, many building materials companies use toxic compounds in their products, don’t tell their buyers or suppliers about the toxic chemicals and some even hide the fact that their products contain these toxic chemicals. Many also make claims about their products that just are not true.

We think it is important to shine a light in these dark places, to get manufacturers to change their behavior, be transparent about their products and start producing only products that are good for homeowners, good for workers and communities and good for the planet.

This video is one of the most startling revelations that we have discovered over the last year, leading us to dramatically change our specifications for our company and to strongly suggest to our clients and architects that they do not use or specify these materials for the reasons that we describe in this video.

This video is the start of our video series that dives deep into the toxicity or lack of toxicity of products found throughout the construction industry, from both the good players, who promote transparency and endeavor to use only non-toxic chemicals in their products and the many bad players who don’t or just don’t seem to care. Whether you are homeowner, architect or builder, we hope this video and subsequent videos, gives you some insight into this category of materials so you can make better choices for yourselves, your workers collaborators, subcontractors or your clients.

We often hear about the concept of PreConstruction and how it can dramatically improve the experience and outcome of a building project. In commercial and institutional construction, this phase is considered essential—an industry standard that ensures projects stay on budget, on schedule, and aligned with the client’s goals. Yet, in residential construction, PreConstruction remains surprisingly underutilized, despite its proven benefits.

So, what do highly experienced architects—especially those who have worked across Design/Build, commercial, residential, and collaborative project delivery systems—think about PreConstruction? In this video, we sit down with Bronwyn Barry of Passive House BB, an architect and industry leader in high-performance building. She shares why she refuses to take on a project without involving a builder from the very beginning. In fact, she believes so strongly in the value of early builder collaboration that she writes it directly into her contracts.

Join us as we explore why PreConstruction isn’t just a step in the process—it’s the foundation for a successful, cost-effective, and high-performing project. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or architect, understanding this approach could transform the way you think about residential construction.

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Building or remodeling a home is one of the most rewarding things you can do—but there’s a hidden danger lurking in the materials used to construct and finish it. The unsettling truth is that many modern building products are packed with harmful chemicals, from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that off-gas into your indoor air to toxic flame retardants, formaldehyde, and PFAS (forever chemicals) that can compromise your long-term health. Even worse, manufacturers often bury this information under layers of technical jargon, obscure safety data sheets, and misleading marketing, making it nearly impossible for homeowners—and even builders—to know what they’re really bringing into their homes.

At Earth Bound Homes, we refuse to accept the status quo. In this video, we unveil a groundbreaking initiative we’ve launched to identify and eliminate toxic materials from our projects. We’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden dangers in conventional building products and showcasing the safer, healthier alternatives we’re integrating into our homes. From advanced screening methods to rigorous material vetting, we are pioneering a cleaner way to build—one that prioritizes human health, sustainability, and transparency.

This is a video you don’t want to miss. The knowledge we share could protect you and your family from chronic exposure to hazardous chemicals you never even knew were inside your home. It could mean the difference between a house that slowly makes you sick and one that actively supports your well-being. Watch now—because your health, and your home, deserve better.

Explore the Newly Framed Venkatesh Project – A Mediterranean Masterpiece in Silicon Valley

Step into the Venkatesh Project, an approximately 4,000 sq. ft. new home taking shape in the heart of Silicon Valley. Designed by the renowned Dan Garber of Fergus Garber Architects (www.fg-arch.com), this Mediterranean-style residence is a true testament to thoughtful design and craftsmanship.

A Walk Through the Frame of Elegance

As we walk through this newly framed home, the vision behind its layout begins to come to life. Expansive open spaces, carefully curated room placements, and architectural details characteristic of timeless Mediterranean design set the stage for a warm and inviting residence.

The Genius Behind the Design

Fergus Garber Architects, one of the top architectural firms in the San Francisco Bay Area, has masterfully balanced old-world charm with modern functionality. The Venkatesh Project embraces signature Mediterranean elements—arched openings, exposed beams, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions—while ensuring a design that meets the needs of contemporary living.

A Sneak Peek at the Layout

• Grand Entryway & Open Living Spaces – A welcoming entrance leads to airy, light-filled living areas perfect for entertaining.

• Gourmet Kitchen & Dining – Thoughtfully designed to be both beautiful and functional, this space is set to be the heart of the home.

• Luxurious Bedrooms & Baths – Spacious retreats with elegant finishes promise relaxation and comfort.

• Outdoor Living & Landscape Integration – True to Mediterranean tradition, the design seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for enjoying the mild Bay Area climate.

Join us on this journey as we watch this incredible home take shape, from framework to finishing touches. Stay tuned for more updates on this stunning new build!

What is the one thing that can block the sun from overheating your home in the summer while still allowing it to warm your living spaces throughout the year?

The answer is simple yet often overlooked: roof overhangs. These architectural features, once a staple in home design, are increasingly omitted in favor of sleek, modern aesthetics. Unfortunately, removing them can have serious consequences for both comfort and energy efficiency.

Why Roof Overhangs Matter

Roof overhangs play a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements. They shield windows and walls from direct sunlight, helping to keep interiors cooler during hot summer months. At the same time, their strategic placement allows the low-angled winter sun to penetrate deep into the home, providing passive solar heating when it’s needed most.

But their benefits don’t stop there. Roof overhangs also:

• Prevent Water Damage: By directing rainwater away from walls and foundations, they help reduce moisture intrusion, mold growth, and premature material degradation.

• Improve Energy Efficiency: By limiting unwanted solar heat gain in the summer, they reduce reliance on air conditioning, leading to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

• Enhance Comfort: Properly designed overhangs help create a more stable indoor temperature, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

• Protect Exterior Finishes: They extend the lifespan of siding, doors, and windows by minimizing UV exposure and weathering effects.

The Science Behind Proper Overhang Design

The effectiveness of roof overhangs depends on factors such as latitude, window placement, and roof pitch. In warmer climates, deeper overhangs provide essential shade, while in colder climates, they must be carefully sized to balance shading with winter heat gain.

A well-designed overhang considers:

The Sun’s Path: The height and angle of the sun change throughout the year. In summer, when the sun is high, deep overhangs block direct rays. In winter, when the sun is lower, its warmth can enter under the overhang and heat the home naturally.

• Window Placement and Size: Larger south-facing windows benefit the most from overhangs, as they allow for passive heating while still being shaded in the summer.

• Roof Slope and Depth: Steeper roofs may require longer overhangs to achieve the same shading effect as a shallower roof with shorter eaves.

A Timeless Feature for Modern Efficiency

Despite the push for modern, overhang-free designs, the science behind passive solar design remains unchanged. Incorporating well-designed overhangs into any style of home can enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and durability.

When it comes to creating a comfortable, energy-efficient home, every material choice matters. That’s why the EcoCocon wall system is becoming a game-changer in the world of passive house construction.

This eco-friendly system, made from natural straw, provides exceptional insulation and airtightness—key components of a true passive house. It helps keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, all while reducing your carbon footprint.

Fire resistant? Contrary to popular belief, straw and wood buildings resist fire very well. The straw in the EcoCocon panels is compressed at a density of 110kg/m³ (6.9 Ib/ft3), leaving no space for oxygen that would fuel the fire. Straw has a high content of silica, a natural fire retardant. When burning, both materials create a charcoal insulation layer on the surface that protects them from flames. Combined with clay plaster, the panels are rated to withstand two hours of intense fire according to the REI 120 and REIef120 certifications, meeting strict fire safety requirements. In fact, after two hours of over 1000°C (1832°F) on one side, the other side showed an average temperature increase of only 17.7°C (63.9°F).

The plumbing and electrical installation (pic above) fits snuggly into the straw panels

The EcoCocon wall system not only offers top-tier energy efficiency but also contributes to a healthier living environment with renewable, non-toxic materials. And while some people worry about rodents, rest assured, in a Passive House, the building envelope is meticulously sealed, so there’s no opportunity for pests to penetrate the exterior. With proper installation, these walls remain protected and continue to perform at their best.

With the right installation and sealing, the EcoCocon wall system offers a sustainable, durable, and beautiful option for building homes that are as eco-friendly as they are comfortable.

Rock Wool Insulation

Did you know there’s an inspection specifically designed to ensure insulation performs as intended? It’s called QII—short for Quality of Insulation Installation—and it’s a game-changer for improving the energy performance of homes and buildings.

Why does QII matter? Insulation is only as effective as its installation. Unfortunately, many insulation jobs—whether done by homeowners or professionals—fall short. Common mistakes like gaps, compression, and voids can drastically reduce thermal performance, leading to uneven temperatures, drafts, higher energy bills, and even moisture-related issues.

QII ensures insulation is installed to exacting standards, minimizing these problems. The process includes a detailed inspection to confirm insulation is properly placed, with no gaps or obstructions, and is in full contact with air barriers. For new construction, QII is often required to meet higher energy efficiency standards, such as those outlined in California’s Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards.

Key Benefits of QII:

1. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation reduces energy loss, lowering heating and cooling costs.

2. Improved Indoor Comfort: Say goodbye to hot or cold spots in your home.

3. Better Air Quality: Correctly installed insulation reduces pathways for air leakage, helping control pollutants and allergens.

4. Moisture Management: Proper installation minimizes the risk of condensation and mold growth.

5. Code Compliance: QII is a requirement for certain high-performance building certifications, such as California’s CalGreen and programs like Energy Star and LEED.

For builders and homeowners aiming for Passive House, Net Zero, or Living Building Challenge certifications, QII is a critical step toward creating a truly high-performance, sustainable home. It’s not just an inspection—it’s peace of mind that your home is optimized for energy efficiency, comfort, and longevity.

When it comes to insulation, remember: It’s not just what you use, but how you use it that makes all the difference.

Passive House Building Science Basics - #2: Understanding the Exterior Envelope

If you’re looking to create a high-performance home or building—or just make your existing home more comfortable and efficient—it all starts with the exterior envelope. But what exactly is it, and why is it so important?

The exterior envelope, often referred to as the building envelope, is the physical barrier between the inside of your home and the outside world. Think of it as your home’s "skin." It includes walls, windows, doors, the roof, and even the foundation. Each of these components works together to regulate temperature, manage moisture, and maintain indoor comfort while keeping the elements—like wind, rain, heat, and cold—at bay.

Why Is the Exterior Envelope So Important?

A well-designed exterior envelope is critical for:

1. Energy Efficiency: It minimizes heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, reducing the energy required for heating and cooling.

2. Comfort: It eliminates drafts, keeps temperatures stable, and helps maintain a quiet indoor environment by reducing outside noise.

3. Durability: By controlling moisture and preventing water intrusion, a good envelope protects the structure of your home from damage over time.

4. Sustainability: When your home uses less energy, you’re reducing your carbon footprint—something Passive Houses excel at.

The Core Components of an Effective Exterior Envelope

To create a truly high-performance exterior envelope, each component must work in harmony:

1. Air Barrier: This prevents unwanted air leaks, which can lead to energy loss, drafts, and moisture problems. Achieving airtightness is a cornerstone of Passive House principles.

2. Thermal Barrier (Insulation): High-quality insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature by slowing the transfer of heat. The better the insulation, the less energy you’ll need to heat or cool your home.

3. Moisture Management: Properly managing water and humidity is essential. This includes rainwater protection, vapor control, and drainage systems to keep the envelope dry and avoid mold or rot.

4. High-Performance Windows and Doors: Windows and doors are weak points in most envelopes. Passive House standards use triple-pane windows and airtight doors to ensure minimal heat transfer and air leakage.

What Happens When the Envelope Fails?

Without a well-designed and properly installed exterior envelope, you’ll likely experience:

• Higher energy bills from excessive heating and cooling demands.

• Discomfort from drafts, uneven temperatures, or condensation.

• Structural issues caused by water infiltration or moisture buildup.

• Decreased indoor air quality due to mold or pollutants entering through leaks.

How Does Passive House Elevate the Exterior Envelope?

Passive House design takes the exterior envelope to the next level. By focusing on superior insulation, airtight construction, and thermal bridge-free design, Passive House buildings can achieve up to 90% reductions in energy use compared to conventional construction.

For example, Passive House envelopes are so efficient that a home’s heating needs can often be met by a small heat source, like a hair dryer or the sun streaming through the windows on a winter day.

How You Can Improve Your Home’s Envelope

Whether you’re building new or renovating an existing home, here are steps to consider:

1. Seal Air Leaks: Use high-quality tapes, membranes, and sealants to close gaps and cracks in your home.

2. Upgrade Insulation: Choose materials with high R-values to better resist heat flow.

3. Replace Windows and Doors: Consider energy-efficient options with good U-values and airtight seals.

4. Add External Weather Protection: Install rain screens, cladding, and proper flashing to shield your home from water damage.

By understanding and prioritizing the design and construction of the exterior envelope, you’re not just creating a better home—you’re investing in your comfort, health, and future savings.

Watch this video to learn more about how the exterior envelope works, how Passive House principles apply, and how you can make your home a model of efficiency and sustainability.

Protect Your Home from the Ground Up: How to Build a Forever Waterproof Basement

Water damage can be one of the most destructive forces in a home, and nowhere is this more critical than in your basement. When it comes to basement construction, getting the details right isn’t just important—it’s essential. The right waterproofing approach can turn a potential disaster into a lasting, dry, healthy living space.

In this video, we’re joined by Sr. Project Manager Craig Novak as he walks us through the key steps for creating a basement that’s not only waterproof, but built to last for generations. With high water tables and moisture lurking beneath the surface, an improperly sealed basement can quickly become an “inside-out bathtub” that compromises your entire home.

Craig explains the importance of proper detailing, from foundation drainage to material selection, ensuring that every layer of waterproofing is carefully installed and tested. It’s about more than just keeping water out—it's about creating a basement that’s cozy, clean, fresh, and healthy for years to come.

With the right materials and expert installation, you can rest assured that your basement will stay dry, durable, and livable for decades.

Want to learn how to build a basement that can stand the test of time? Watch this video to discover the key techniques, best practices, and expert tips for achieving a truly waterproof basement that will protect your home for decades. And don't hesitate to check out our other videos on our YouTube Channel - "Building A Better Way with Earth Bound Homes."