Which method is commonly used to enhance energy efficiency in buildings?

Utilizing high-performance insulation is recognized as a key method to enhance energy efficiency in buildings. High-performance insulation materials not only provide better thermal resistance compared to standard insulation options, but they also help minimize heat loss during colder months and reduce unwanted heat gain in warmer months. By effectively regulating indoor temperatures, high-performance insulation plays a vital role in lowering energy consumption for heating and cooling, which contributes to overall energy efficiency.

In contrast, while standard insulation materials can provide a basic level of thermal resistance, they may not meet the more rigorous demands of modern energy codes or energy-efficiency goals. Building with traditional techniques may also lack the innovation of newer materials or methods that are specifically designed to optimize energy use. Regular maintenance checks, while important for preserving the integrity and functionality of a building's systems, do not directly enhance the inherent energy efficiency of the building itself. Thus, utilizing high-performance insulation stands out as the most effective approach to improving energy efficiency among the given options.