Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Tahoe Sustainable Construction Specialists
Founded in 2002 by Cory Hannaford and Danny Webb, Sierra Sustainable Builders has grown into a team of nearly 50 dedicated professionals specializing in sustainable construction across the Tahoe Basin. Our commitment to environmental stewardship drives every project, from energy-efficient passive homes to comprehensive remodels. We prioritize minimizing waste through recycled materials and advanced building techniques that ensure long-lasting, durable structures. Our team's expertise in navigating complex Tahoe building codes and unique alpine challenges has earned us a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and client satisfaction. Transparency remains central to our process, with real-time project updates and clear communication throughout every phase. Recognized for our innovative approach to green building practices, we've completed over 50 projects that harmonize modern design with ecological responsibility.Our work on the Angora Fire rebuild and 968 Hotel renovation demonstrates our ability to solve complex construction challenges while maintaining aesthetic integrity. With California License #894230 and Nevada License #70412, we combine technical precision with creative problem-solving to deliver spaces that exceed expectations. Our dedication to quality control extends from material selection to final finishes, ensuring every project meets our exacting standards. As industry leaders in passive house construction, we implement cutting-edge technologies like heat recovery ventilation systems and structural insulated panels to achieve superior energy efficiency. This combination of technical expertise and environmental consciousness has made us the preferred contractor for discerning clients throughout Lake Tahoe and surrounding communities.
Services
Sustainable Construction
Passive House Building
Home Remodeling
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Alpine Architecture
Green Certification
Custom Carpentry
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We implement patented passive house construction techniques for maximum energy efficiency
- Our team holds 20+ years of combined experience in Tahoe Basin construction challenges
- We guarantee transparent project management with daily progress updates
- Our craftsmen maintain 98% client satisfaction rate across 50+ completed projects
- We pioneered green building practices in post-Angora Fire reconstruction efforts
Associations and certifications
- California License #: 894230
- Nevada License #: 70412
What people say
Efficient and skilled contractors
Outstanding workmanship
Impeccable attention to detail
Creative problem-solving
Green building pioneers
Services
Sustainable Construction
Our sustainable construction services combine cutting-edge technology with eco-conscious practices to create energy-efficient structures that minimize environmental impact. We utilize recycled materials, advanced insulation systems, and passive solar design principles to achieve 60-80% greater efficiency than standard construction. Our team's expertise in Tahoe Basin environmental regulations ensures every project meets the highest sustainability standards while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functional design.
Passive House Building
We specialize in constructing certified passive houses that maintain comfortable temperatures with minimal energy input. Our process includes thermal envelope optimization, high-performance windows, and heat recovery ventilation systems that achieve 84% efficiency. By strategically positioning buildings for solar gain and using structural insulated panels with R-42 to R-44 ratings, we create homes that require 80% less energy for heating and cooling than conventional builds.
Home Remodeling
Our remodeling services transform existing structures while incorporating modern sustainable features. We address unique Tahoe challenges like aging infrastructure and snow load requirements while upgrading homes to meet current energy standards. From kitchen renovations to complete home overhauls, we maintain historical character while integrating modern efficiency through LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and advanced insulation techniques that improve comfort and reduce operating costs.
Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management with daily progress updates through our online platform. Our system tracks schedules, budgets, and quality control metrics while maintaining transparent communication with clients and subcontractors. This approach ensures timely completion within budget while maintaining our high standards for craftsmanship and sustainability across all project phases from initial design to final inspection.
Alpine Architecture
Our alpine architecture expertise addresses the unique challenges of mountain construction including extreme weather conditions and environmentally sensitive sites. We implement specialized foundation systems for snow load distribution, thermal bridging prevention techniques, and moisture management solutions tailored to high-altitude environments. Our designs harmonize with natural surroundings while meeting strict Tahoe Basin environmental regulations and building codes.
People
Cory Hannaford
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 25+ years in sustainable construction, Cory pioneered Tahoe's first passive house projects. His expertise in green building techniques and client-focused approach have driven the company's growth since 2002.
Danny Webb
Co-Founder
Co-founder Danny Webb brings extensive field experience in alpine construction challenges. His technical mastery of complex building systems and commitment to quality control have established Sierra Sustainable as Tahoe's premier green contractor.
Questions
What types of construction projects do you specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable residential construction, passive house building, major remodels, and energy-efficient commercial projects throughout the Tahoe Basin.
Are you licensed for work in both California and Nevada?
Yes, we hold active contractor licenses in both states with California License #894230 and Nevada License #70412.
How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your builds?
We use recycled materials, structural insulated panels, heat recovery ventilation systems, and passive solar design principles to achieve 60-80% greater energy efficiency than standard construction.
Can you handle complex alpine construction challenges?
With 20+ years of Tahoe Basin experience, we've mastered solutions for snow load management, thermal bridging, and environmentally sensitive site development.
What sets you apart from other Tahoe contractors?
Our unique combination of green building expertise, technical precision, and client communication processes has earned us repeat business from 85% of our clients.
Reviews (3)
Sandy Bryson
Oct 28, 2020
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As a professional who works from home plus remote locations, I am happy Sierra Sustainable Builders totally shares my vision for a great residence at Lake Tahoe. In collaboration with the architects, Cory Hannaford, President, met with me, took the time to develop a plan within my budget, and shared his extensive experience and ideas. SSB completed my project in advance of schedule and well within budget. At 1600 sf, my home feels amazingly spacious for working in the office, relaxing, and entertaining family and friends. Strategically placed windows give extraordinary views and admit solar energy
Christopher Minnes
Oct 05, 2019
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Sierra Sustainable Builders were fantastic to work with when they renovated 968 Park Hotel in South Lake Tahoe. Innovative and knowledgeable.
Lynn Scott
Sep 30, 2018
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This review is long overdue. When I see the only other comment here, I can only conclude that the reviewer has not worked with Sierra Sustainable. Corey, Danny and their team accomplished a complicated project for our family, guiding an Old Tahoe home into the modern era. The dramatic hybrid design required significant know-how where the modern glass elements were concerned, and they showed genuine commitment to the preservation of the historical elements. They finished the job on time, despite working through the hardest winter Tahoe had seen in many years. Their attention to detail was impeccable
