A new Rocky Mountain high

Colorado’s Boulder County has a new residential building-code program called Build-Smart, which requires builders to navigate some demanding terrain. All new residential projects—including additions and renovations—must hit a sliding-scale HERS rating based on their size. Those modest chalets over 5000 sq. ft.? They’ll need to rate near zero energy if they want to rise from Boulder’s soil. Remodeling and renovation projects are included in the code requirements, too. A deconstruction plan, which includes mandatory salvaging and recycling, must be documented, followed, and approved by code officials. Now those are high standards.

To learn more about Build-Smart, visit www.bouldercountybuildsmart.org.