Business Details
23 Years
experience
Expert Home Building & Renovation Services in Portland, ME
At Kolbert Building, we specialize in crafting homes that harmonize beauty, functionality, and sustainability. With over two decades of experience, our team has pioneered the Pretty Good House movement, emphasizing energy efficiency, durability, and environmental responsibility. We prioritize meticulous attention to detail, ensuring our clients' homes are comfortable, low-maintenance, and designed to last generations. Our approach integrates advanced building science with traditional craftsmanship, focusing on air sealing, moisture control, and sustainable materials.We maintain long-term relationships with clients and partners, offering continuous support and monitoring to guarantee project success. Serving the greater Portland area, we handle projects ranging from historic renovations to cutting-edge new builds, always prioritizing client satisfaction and environmental stewardship.
Services
New Home Construction
Energy-Efficient Renovations
Historic Home Restoration
Sustainable Building Consultation
Project Monitoring & Maintenance
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in energy-efficient home construction.
- Our team pioneered the Pretty Good House movement for sustainable building.
- We monitor projects long-term to ensure performance and client satisfaction.
- We specialize in historic renovations and modern, eco-conscious designs.
- Our focus on local partnerships reduces environmental impact and supports communities.
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Energy-efficient solutions
Dedicated to sustainability
Skilled in historic renovations
Long-term project support
Services
New Home Construction
We design and construct energy-efficient, durable homes tailored to client needs. Our process integrates advanced building science with sustainable materials, ensuring comfort and longevity. Every project adheres to Pretty Good House principles for optimal performance.
Energy-Efficient Renovations
Transform existing homes into high-performance spaces with insulation, air sealing, and modern systems. We prioritize reducing energy use while enhancing comfort and functionality, preserving the home's character and integrity.
Historic Home Restoration
Specializing in restoring older homes, we address lead paint, water damage, and historic details. Our expertise ensures structural integrity and energy efficiency while maintaining original architectural charm and craftsmanship.
Sustainable Building Consultation
Guidance on eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and design strategies. We help clients make informed decisions to minimize environmental impact and maximize efficiency in new or existing projects.
Project Monitoring & Maintenance
We track energy use, air quality, and structural health post-construction. This ensures ongoing performance, addresses issues proactively, and maintains the home's durability and comfort for years to come.
People
Dan Kolbert
General Manager
With 35+ years in construction, Dan founded Kolbert Building 20 years ago. He co-authored 'The Pretty Good House' and teaches sustainable building practices across Maine.
Liz Zelnick
Director of Operations
Liz oversees sales, design, and production. She co-founded Non-Trad Tradies to support women and non-binary tradespeople, blending environmental advocacy with construction expertise.
Josh Blye
Lead Carpenter
A 15-year carpentry veteran with a Forest Science degree, Josh specializes in sustainable wood use. He contributes to industry publications and merges craftsmanship with ecological responsibility.
Ashley Barnes
Site Supervisor/PM
Ashley transitioned from fine arts to construction, managing projects with precision. Her background in sculpture informs her approach to complex renovations and client collaboration.
Haley Hall
Carpenter
A Maine native, Haley shifted from healthcare to carpentry after earning a Construction Technology degree. They focus on sustainable practices and community-driven projects, enjoying outdoor activities in their free time.
Questions
What types of projects does Kolbert Building handle?
We specialize in new home construction, energy-efficient renovations, and historic home restorations across the greater Portland area.
What is the Pretty Good House philosophy?
It emphasizes building durable, energy-efficient homes using sustainable materials and systems thinking to minimize environmental impact.
Do you work outside the Portland area?
We primarily serve Portland and nearby communities but can refer clients outside our area to trusted partners with similar values.
How do you ensure project quality over time?
We monitor energy use, air quality, and structural health post-construction to guarantee long-term performance and client satisfaction.
What sustainability practices do you prioritize?
We focus on air sealing, moisture control, low-carbon materials, and minimizing concrete use to create eco-friendly, durable homes.
