At BrightBuilt, we're fortunate to collaborate with a diverse array of builders from New England and beyond. We relish building these relationships, diving deep enough to discover who boasts the most impressive tool collection, who has the cutest shop dogs, and who would undoubtedly win a local potato sack race. And of course, we also focus on the practical aspects, such as finding the best fit for each client’s unique needs.
In this round of “meet a builder of BrightBuilt Homes,” we wanted to take a moment to chat with Tom Greenleaf, owner of T.A. Greenleaf Fine Woodworking & Home Building, of Jefferson, ME. Having completed both modular and stick-built BrightBuilt Homes, among many other high-performance homes, Tom has some great insights on both the high-performance world and off-site construction.
What is your history with building high-performance homes? How did you get started?
Our first high-performance home was around 20 years ago. It was a double walled, triple pane door and window design by Kaplan Thompson Architects. It was a great 1st approach at a high performance build being that we were able to see and learn the absolute necessities that need to be incorporated into these homes. This home held a .53 ACH (Air Changes per Hour) blower door test that we were very proud of for a first go at high performance homes.
What brought you to BrightBuilt?
A client and the folks at BBH reached out to us for a local build. It was the ever popular modified Little Diamond. The team at TA Greenleaf Fine Woodworking & Home Building were very impressed with the quality and quickness of this project. And of course, the crew was ecstatic about not having to frame this one in the middle of the winter.
What do you most enjoy about building?
We have been at it for around 35 years and everyday brings something new. I particularly enjoy the interaction of all involved from the design team, subcontractors and material providers that see each project to its finish.
In your mind, what are some of the primary benefits of off-site construction?
Quality control, speed and efficiency working in a temperature controlled building.
What other interests do you pursue when you aren’t on the job site?
Most weekends my wife, Marge and I can be found at camps at either Damariscotta Lake or Monson Maine. Snowmobiling, ATVing, boating, fishing and hiking occupy our days off.
Anything else you’d like to share?
BrightBuilt Home has been a wonderful partner in our pursuit and production of high performance homes.
