The journey took longer and was more difficult than we expected. The difficulties we encountered illustrate why LEED is so important.
Although the vast number of people the team encountered were enthusiastic, a small number of people were resistant to the process. Some of the steps required by the LEED certification process require people to do things differently than they may have in the past, and this can be difficult. Obtaining certified lumber might mean additional paper work. Similarly, installers who in the past were used to using "rules of thumb" were faced with working with the team's engineer. Even energy rater Kim Ewers, who was excited about the project, had to obtain new equipment to perform all of the required tests. Changes like this can be difficult in rural areas where resources are often stretched thin. Ultimately, the team worked closely with all of the involved parties to achieve success. In hindsight, the team believes this is one of the most important aspects of LEED. The rigor of the program helps to develop local capacity to improve building practices.
Photographs by Peter Stempel