August 21, 2026
BetterBuiltNW August 2026 Newsletter
Technologies and tactics that have transformed Northwest housing over the last decade
Today's new homes have changed dramatically compared to those built just ten years ago. Various building techniques and technologies have pushed the envelope for home energy performance and transformed the market across the Northwest. Practices that were once considered high-performance or above code have increasingly become part of mainstream new construction, improving efficiency, comfort, and resilience.
Read more to learn which trends have had the biggest impact over the past decade and what builders should be watching next.
Don’t Miss Out: Free ‘Essential New Home Construction Practices’ Trainings in Idaho
Join us for two free, 3-hour trainings in Idaho on September 22 and 23. Learn how to navigate evolving codes, build higher-performing homes, and leverage local financial incentives. Lunch will be included.
100% of previous attendees of this training:
Rated the training quality as high or very high.
Said they would recommend this training to fellow industry professionals.
Plan to apply what they learned toward improving home performance.
“The instructor was extremely knowledgeable and presented practical, real-world solutions.” - Previous attendee
“I especially appreciated the perspective they brought from more than a decade of building high-performance homes.” - Previous attendee
Learn more and register for the training most convenient for you:
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Must-read content from past newsletters just in case you missed it.
High-Performance Home News
Every month, BetterBuiltNW highlights news articles and other media to keep builders and Raters/verifiers informed about key industry updates, program changes, and other features.
Energy Vanguard
National Association of Home Builders
PROBUILDER
RESNET®