Before You Start an Energy Efficient Retrofit – The Building Envelope
An energy efficient home needs a sound and well sealed building envelope. The building envelope is the outer layer of the building that separates the living space from the outdoor environment, both above and below the ground. Many older homes have high heating requirements because of high rates of air leakage through gaps, cracks, or […]
About Your Home: Hiring A Contractor
Choosing a contractor is a crucial decision and not something you should rush into. The right contractor will have the technical, business and interpersonal skills, the tools, and the experience needed to do the job you want done. Hire a contractor who has experience with projects similar to yours, as they will know what materials […]
About Your Home: Before You Start Your Window and Door Renovations
Home renovations provide an ideal time to make your house healthier, for you, the community and the environment. The decisions you make are likely to affect your home’s energy efficiency, comfort and value for years to come. Asking yourself the right questions before you make big changes, like door and window replacements, can help you […]
About Your Home: Insulating Your Home
The right home insulation system can save you money, reduce the amount of energy you use and make your home energy efficient, healthier, and more comfortable. This article describes some of the telltale signs that your insulation needs upgrading, as well as explaining effective home insulation systems and some techniques for insulating important locations like […]
Comparing Heating Costs
An energy efficient home is a comfortable, healthy, and less costly home to live in. One of the biggest energy efficiency factors for a Canadian home is space heating. But the best heating solution for one home is not necessarily the same as for the one next door. The insulation and airtightness of your home […]
Improving Window Energy Efficiency
Windows can account for up to 25% of total home heat loss. Energy efficient windows will increase your comfort, help control condensation, save you money, improve indoor air quality, reduce the penetration of dust, insects and sound into your home, and reduce your home’s impact on the environment by making it more energy efficient. The […]
Air-Leakage in your Home
Air leakage represents 25 – 40% of the heat lost from an older home. Air leakage can cause cold drafts, static electricity, dry throats and skin, mold and other moisture problems, costly heat loss in winter, heat gain in summer, and will decrease the comfort and value of your home. This article describes how you […]
Consumer Guide to Energy Efficient Windows & Doors
People ask a lot from their windows. They want durable, low maintenance, stylish and energy efficient windows that open for air circulation, and let in the light and the view. Not all windows can perform these jobs equally well, so the decisions you make are important. A window will typically last 20 years or more, […]
Buying Replacement Windows by George Pinch, P. Eng.
Mr. George Pinch a Professional Engineer who spent many years with BC Hydro and the Power Smart™ program, has written a report that touches on a few things you should consider when Buying Replacement Windows.