That’s what most people think when they see high-performance homes being built. Having a beautiful and long-lasting home seems unattainable, forcing many homebuyers to choose production homes that care more about profits than longevity.

But, can you build a high-performance home similar in cost to a production home?

Challenge accepted. 

In partnership with Design vs. Build, Jordan Smith is launching a brand new video series on his YouTube channel called The Affordable High Performance Home. 

Endeavor to Build Better

Season 1

Texas Ranch 2.0

Jordan’s First project is for Patti, a retired Saledo, TX resident. As an avid cross-fitter (and grandmother!), health is super important to Patti. She loves being connected to nature and is looking for a house that is right-sized for her day-to-day life but can scale up when family is in town. 

Project Budget: $500,000

This season is brought to you by:

    • What does affordable mean?

    • What does high-performance mean?

    • The Realities of Production Homes

    • The Lifespan of a Typical Homeowner

    • The Cost Difference

    • High-Performance Advantages

    • Sun Angles

    • Topography

    • Utilities

    • Access

    • Privacy and Outlook

    • Site-Specific Design

    • Maximizing Functionality

    • Balancing Size and Efficiency

    • The Role of Energy Modeling

    • Budget Integration

    • When an Engineer is Essential

    • Cost of Hiring an Engineer

    • Benefits of Professional Input

    • When You Can Skip It

    • Code Compliance

    • Foundation Types

    • Cost Comparisons

    • Pros and Cons

    • Site Considerations

    • Insulating Foundations

    • Moisture Management

    • The Role of Insulation

    • Material Choices

    • 2x4 Walls vs. 2x6 Walls

    • Air Sealing

    • Moisture Control

    • Practical Installation Tips

    • Ventilated vs. Conditioned Attics

    • The Case for Metal Roofs

    • Continuous Insulation on Roofs

    • Eliminating Penetrations

    • Moisture and Ventilation

    • Solar Panel Integration

    • Lessons Learned

    • Cheap vs. Expensive Windows

    • U-Value and SHGC

    • Frame Materials

    • Installation Best Practices

    • Sizing and Placement

    • Cost Implications

    • Manual J, D, and S

    • Heat Pumps

    • Dehumidification

    • Ventilation Strategies

    • Duct Design

    • Whole-Home Filtration

    • Water Softeners

    • Reverse Osmosis (RO)

    • Water Heaters

    • Recirculation Systems

    • Energy Efficiency

    • Integration Tips

    • Environmental Benefits

    • Efficiency Gains

    • Solar Energy Integration

    • Cost Savings Over Time

    • Energy Independence

    • Myth Busting

    • Drywall Levels

    • Soundproofing

    • Texture Choices

    • Painting Tips

    • Budget Considerations

    • VOC Sources

    • Health Impacts

    • Material Choices

    • Sealing and Ventilation

    • Certifications

    • Key Takeaways

    • Cost-Benefit Insights

    • Lessons from Clients

    • Reflections on Design Choices

    • Material Performance

    • Future Considerations

Episode List

MEET
JORDAN SMITH

Jordan Smith’s journey began welding in his grandfather’s shop, where he solved everyday fabrication challenges in farm life. His passion for designing and building led him to pursue a degree and career in engineering. After designing, remodeling, and building several personal homes with his wife Veronica, they decided to follow their passion and established Smith House Co., a residential design and build firm. 

In 2017, Jordan launched a YouTube channel - Jordan Smith Builds - as a platform to share best practices, materials, and tools with fellow builders and homeowners. The channel has experienced exponential growth since its inception and continues to expand. Combined with Instagram and TikTok, Jordan is providing a comprehensive online presence for his audience.

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