Business Details
39 Years
experience
Energy-Efficient Home Building Experts in Iowa City
Welcome to DPO Construction, where I have dedicated 31 years to building environmentally responsible homes that combine efficiency with enduring quality. My journey began with Iowa's first 5-star energy-rated home, and since then, I have consistently integrated research-driven, cost-effective techniques to redefine sustainable construction. Our approach prioritizes right-sized, resilient designs that minimize environmental impact through reduced materials, lower energy consumption, and durable, low-maintenance solutions. As both builder and educator, I offer comprehensive services including general contracting, home performance diagnostics, and consulting on energy efficiency.My work is grounded in decades of hands-on experience, evidenced by national awards and partnerships with leading environmental organizations. We ensure every project meets rigorous performance standards through independent audits, delivering homes that are as practical as they are innovative. My commitment to advancing green building practices extends to education, where I share insights through courses and leadership roles in energy efficiency associations. At DPO Construction, we believe thoughtful design not only enhances livability but also preserves resources for future generations.
Services
General Contracting
Home Consulting
Performance Testing
Energy Education
Green Building
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer 31 years of specialized expertise in energy-efficient home construction.
- Our projects undergo independent performance audits for guaranteed efficiency.
- We pioneered Iowa's first 5-star energy-rated home with proven cost-saving methods.
- Our team holds certifications from leading environmental building associations.
- We provide end-to-end solutions from design to post-construction testing.
Associations and certifications
- American Lung Association Health House Builder
- Energy and Environmental Building Association (EEBA) Train the Trainer
- US Green Building Council LEED-NC Workshop
Services
General Contracting
We manage complete home construction projects from design through final commissioning. Our process includes assembling expert design teams, maintaining budget efficiency, and conducting independent performance audits to ensure energy systems function optimally. Clients receive fully documented construction phases with transparent cost breakdowns.
Home Consulting
Our consultation services address home performance issues like moisture control, indoor air quality, and energy inefficiencies. We analyze problems using thermal imaging and air leakage diagnostics, then coordinate remediation work. This service helps homeowners understand and improve their property's environmental performance through targeted interventions.
Performance Testing
We arrange comprehensive building envelope assessments that identify air leaks, insulation gaps, and HVAC inefficiencies. Using thermal imaging and airflow measurements, our independent partners diagnose issues affecting comfort and energy costs. This data-driven approach ensures precise improvements for optimal home performance and occupant comfort.
Energy Education
Our educational programs cover energy-efficient construction techniques for homeowners and industry professionals. Topics include space planning, material selection, performance testing, and appraisal processes for green homes. Courses combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on demonstrations of high-performance building materials and methods.
Green Building
We specialize in constructing environmentally responsible homes that minimize resource consumption. Our approach incorporates structural insulated panels, efficient mechanical systems, and durable materials that reduce long-term maintenance costs. Each project balances aesthetic design with technical performance to create comfortable, energy-saving living spaces that meet rigorous environmental standards.
People
Don Otto
Owner
Don Otto has built energy-efficient homes in Iowa for over 30 years, pioneering the state's first 5-star energy-rated home. He holds certifications from the American Lung Association and US Green Building Council, and serves on multiple environmental building boards while continuing research on sustainable construction methods.
Questions
What types of homes do you build?
We specialize in energy-efficient custom homes using sustainable materials and construction methods that reduce environmental impact while maintaining comfort and durability.
Do you offer consulting services for existing homes?
Yes, we provide performance evaluations and problem-solving consultations for moisture issues, energy inefficiencies, and indoor air quality concerns in existing properties.
How do you ensure energy efficiency?
We use independent performance testing, thermal imaging, and air leakage diagnostics to verify building envelope integrity and mechanical system efficiency before project completion.
Are financing options available?
While we don't provide direct financing, we can help clients identify energy-efficient mortgage programs and utility incentives that may apply to their projects.
Do you teach educational courses?
Yes, we offer periodic courses on energy-efficient construction techniques for homeowners and professionals through local community colleges and industry associations.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and surrounding communities within a 50-mile radius of our Iowa City headquarters.
Videos
