ADDITIONS
Occupant Health
Protection against soil gases and vapour:
- Ensure a sealed separation between the soil and the interior space of the addition using polyethylene.
Low emission materials and products:
- Concrete slabs can be finished with a water-based wax sealer to contain concrete dust. Kiln-dried spruce lumber has lower moisture content than other green softwoods. Most particle boards will have higher emission levels than exterior grade forms of plywood, waferboard or oriented strandboard (OSB). Specify paints, sealants and flooring materials that don't emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Effective Air Barrier
- Air barriers will reduce the amounts of dust and outside contaminants entering the living space. Air barriers placed on the interior face of the wall will prevent the entry of any contaminants within the building envelope.
Effective and Efficient Ventilation
- When adding space, ensure that your existing heating and ventilation system has adequate capacity to serve the new space, providing fresh air and exhausting stale air.
Energy Efficiency
Upgraded Exterior Walls
- Regardless of the condition of the rest of the house, the design of additions should reflect high levels of energy efficiency. Consider R2000 insulation and air tightness standards.
High-Performance Windows and Skylights
- Consider the long-term benefits of energy rated windows with gas fills, insulating spacer bars, and insulated, thermally-broken window frames. Provide overhangs and locate windows to allow winter sunshine into the living space, while minimizing summer overheating.
Energy Efficient Lighting
- Optimize natural daylight through skylights or light pipes. Compact fluorescent fixtures are four times more efficient than standard incadescent bulbs. Task lighting will allow for extra light when and where it's needed.
Resource Efficiency
Manufactured Wood Products
- Wood l-joists and roof trusses, finger-jointed lumber and birch trim all represent means of reducing the burden on old growth forests. Wood products within the living space should be manufactured with low emission adhesives.
Materials With Recycled Content
- Cellulose or glass fibre batt insulation, drywall, roof shingles and a host of other products are available with recycled content.
Environmental Responsibility
Efficient Space Planning
- Careful attention to design can result in optimal use of purchased materials and reduced construction wastes.
Construction Waste
- In most markets, scrap wood, drywall and metal can be either reused or recycled. Careful ordering and proper storage will minimize wastage.
Durable Materials
- materials requiring minimal maintenance will last longer and minimize the future burdening of landfill sites.
Affordability
Life Cycle Analysis
- Careful design, the use of durable materials and good construction practices will result in a long-lasting structure. High levels of energy efficiency will provide long-term savings on utility bills.
Mechanicals
Occupant Health
Central Exhaust System
- A high quality central exhaust fan can operate continuously without bothersome noises and high electrical costs. Continuous ventilation will reduce the potential for build-up of contaminants and humidity throughout the home.
Combustion Air as Required
- Most combustion appliances such as gas or oil-fired hot water heaters, furnaces and space heaters, as well as wood stoves and fireplaces, need an adequate supply of combustion air to operate safely. This combustion air should be supplied via a dedicated duct from the exterior. Relying on indoor air for this purpose will result in poor performance and the potential for combustion gases to spill into the living space.
Sealed Combustion Appliances
- These appliances will reduce the possibility of combustion gases spilling into the home. To be on the safe side, install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector.
Improved Filtration
- The purpose of most conventional furnace filters is to protect the fan motor from large particles. Odours and particles, including mould, dust and pollen, should be removed from the indoor air. Various types of filters now available do the job far more effectively than conventional filters.
Energy Efficiency
High Efficiency Appliances
- For combustion space heating, select condensing (sealed combustion) units with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of greater than 89 per cent. Consider an integrated space heating and domestic hot water (DHW) system combining the two functions in one unit.
Insulated Hot Water Pipes
- Make sure the hot water lines leaving the hot water heater have pipe insulation installed to prevent heat loss and to save water.
Resource Efficiency
Correctly Sized Equipment
- A furnace is most efficient after it's been running for a while. While an oversized system will satisfy heating demands quicker, it will do so at the expense of operating efficiency due to shorter cycling times.
Upgraded Controls
- Automatic controls such as set-back thermostats for the furnace and de-humidistats for the heat recovery ventilator (HRV) allow occupants to maintain optimal comfort levels in the home. A set-back thermostat can save heating and cooling costs.
Environmental Responsibility
Minimal Reliance on Electricity
- Unless it is water-generated, electricity is an inefficient and environmentally intrusive way to heat a home. For non-hydraulic forms, only about 35% of the energy consumed becomes electricity. Oil and gas heating systems offer seasonal efficiencies between 78% and 97%.
Heat Recovery from Exhaust Air Streams
- A balanced mechanical ventilation system is best but can increase heating energy consumption (and environmental pollution). Including heat recovery by selecting an HRV saves money and reduces energy requirements.
Central Air Conditioning
- Where air conditioning is required, it is more efficient and less environmentally hazardous to select a central system. Window units should only be used if one or two rooms need cooling.
Affordability
Life Cycle Analysis
- In many parts of the country, homes with electric resistance heating historically have lower resale values than gas-, oil-or propane-heated homes. Higher efficiency, better performing mechanical systems can provide long-term energy and dollar savings to the homeowner.
Attics
Occupant
Control of Dust-generating Materials
- Loose-fill insulation materials or older fibrous batt materials can generate particles which will circulate in the air. Either isolate the materials from the new space using an interior air barrier, or remove the materials.
Low Emission Materials and Products
- When selecting materials for the interior of the converted attic, minimize the use of materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Specify water-based paints, sealants and adhesives.
Effective Ventilation
- Ensure that your existing heating and ventilation system has adequate capacity to serve the new space, providing enough heat, fresh air and good air circulation.
Natural Lighting
- Operable skylights or dormer windows can brighten up the new space and allow for natural ventilation when required.
Energy Efficiency
Upgraded Insulation Levels in Ceiling
- The size of exposed rafters can limit insulation levels. To accommodate the required ventilation space and high levels of insulation, cavity spaces should be extended, ceilings should be cross-strapped, or a layer of rigid insulation should be installed on the interior of the rafters. In most parts of the country, a minimum of RSI 5.6 (R-32) should be attained.
Upgraded Insulation Levels in Knee Walls and Floor of Crawl Space
- Knee walls should be treated as exterior walls with equivalent levels of insulation. Insulation installed or left between the floor rafters in a crawl space should not black soffit ventilation.
Effective Air Barrier System
- Air leakage represents the main cause of heat loss in homes. When converting attic spaces, pay special attention to eliminating any potential sources of leakage.
High-Performance Windows
- If installing skylights or dormer windows, choose high-performance energy rated windows with gas fills, insulated spacers and insulated frames.
Energy Efficient Task Lighting
- Compact fluorescent fixtures are four times more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs. Task lighting will allow for extra light wehn and where it's needed.
Resource Efficiency
Resource Efficient Products
- A Manufactured wood products and finger-jointed trim can reduce the burden on old growth forests.
Materials with Recycled Content
- Glass fibre batt or cellulose insulation, drywall and a variety of flooring products are available with recycled content.
Environmental Responsibility
Efficient Space Planning
- Careful attnetion to design can result in optimal use of purchased materials and can reduce construction wastes.
Construction Waste
- In many markets, scrap wood, drywall and metal can be either reused or recycled.
Durable Materials
- Durable materials requiring minimal maintenance will last longer and minimize the future burdening of landfill sites.
Affordability
Life Cycle Analysis
- Improving insulation and airtightness levels can reduce the cost of operating your home while increasing the amount of usable space. Converting unused attic space into efficient, usable space may improve the resale value of your home.
Basements
Occupant Health
Protection Against Water Leakage
Protection Against Soil Gases and Vapour
- Provide an effective air barrier on the interior face of the wall to isolate the living area from soil gases. Seal around all openings and joints in the slab. In areas with high radon levels, install a sealed floor trap. Ensure an effective seal over sump pits.
Low emission materials and products
- When selecting materials for interior of the converted basement, minimize the use of materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Specify water-based paints and adhesives.
Effective and efficient ventilation
- When finishing your basement, ensure that your existing heating and ventilation system has adequate capacity to serve the new space, providing heat and fresh air while following for the exhaust of stale air. Provide direct exhaust venting from areas used for crafts or for storage of toxic materials such as solvents and paints.
Protection against combustion by-products
- Make certain that your furnace is properly vented and that there is an adequate supply of combustion air to prevent backdrafting and spillage of combustion gases.
Energy Efficiency
Upgraded exterior walls
- Basements can account for as much as 30% of the heat loss from a home. Higher insulation levels and effective air sealing in the foundation and floor assemblies will improve energy performance. Install rigid insulation; polyethylene can be placed over concrete floor slabs before the new flooring to enhance comfort levels.
High-performance windows
- Energy rated, high-efficiency window units will enhance comfort and provide long-term energy savings.
Energy efficient task lighting
- Compact fluorescent fixtures are four times more efficient than standard incadescent bulbs. Task lighting will allow for extra light when and where it's needed.
Resource Efficiency
Materials with recycled content
- Glass fibre batt or cellulose insulation, drywall and a variety of flooring products are available with recycled content.
Environmental Responsibility
Efficient space planning
- Careful attention to design can result in optimal use of purchased materials and reduced construction wastes.
Durable materials
- More durable materials (moisture-resistant) last longer, minimizing the future burdening of landfill sites.
Construction waste
- In many markets, scrap wood, drywall and metal can be either reused or recycled.
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
- Improving the energy efficiency of your basement can significantly reduce the cost of operating your home. Converting unused basement space into efficient, usable space may improve the resale value of your home.
Bathrooms
Occupant Health
Low emission materials and products
- When selecting materials for the bathroom, minimize the use of products and materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Use paints and sealants that don't emit VOCs. Use pre-glued or water-based adhesives for vinyl composition flooring tiles, or consider more durable, non-porous ceramic flooring.
- Hardwood cabinets have few of the toxic characteristics of synthetic materials. If using formaldehyde-based particle board products, laminate or seal all surfaces and edges to reduce off-gassing.
High efficiency exhaust fans and controls
- Moisture problems are common in bathrooms where condensation can gather and moulds can grow. Select a good quality, direct-vent exhaust fan with low noise characteristics (under 2 sones).
- Automatic controls (either timers from de-humidistat controls) ensure that excess moisture is removed from the bathroom.
- Make sure that the ducting from the fan goes directly to the outside or heat recovery ventilator (HRV) with minimal bends to restrict air flows.
Air vents
- Replace stale or exhausted air with fresh incoming air by having a balanced ventilation system.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient task lighting
- Compact fluorescent fixtures are four times more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs. Task lighting around mirrors allows for extra light when and where it's needed.
Upgraded exterior walls
- Design for high levels of energy efficiency in the exterior walls and windows of the bathroom. Make certain that an effective air barrier system is provided to prevent air leakage. Even minor renovations should include air sealing around windows, electrical boxes and at all penetrations, such as for exhaust fans.
Resource Efficiency
Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Toilet
- Replace large-volume toilets with lower-volume ones which can result in saving more than 70% of water per flush. While lower-volume toilets cost slightly more than standard fixtures, the savings on your water bills will easily justify the upgrade.
Low flow showerhead and faucet aerators
- Installing a lower flow showerhead can save as much as 65% of the water used by a conventional fixture. Faucet aerators are also easy to install and are easier on your water bill. Reducing water consumption will decrease your utility bills and reduce the burden you place on the sewage treatment facilities in your community.
Environmental Responsibility
Construction waste
- Old plumbing fixtures can be refurbished and retrofitted, or sold. Old porcelain fixtures can be crushed and recycled as granular fill. Old metal tubs can be recycled for steel making.
Durable materials
- More durable materials (e.g., better backing for wall tiles, ceramic floors) last longer, minimizing the future burdening of landfill sites.
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
- Enhancing energy and water efficiency will reduce the cost of operating your home. The incorporation of more durable materials will reduce the potential for future repair and replacement expenses. Many healthy materials and products are competitively priced. Consider their long-term benefits to your family and the environment.
Kitchens
Occupant Health
Low emission materials and products
- When selecting materials for the kitchen, minimize the use of products and materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Use paints, stains, sealants and adhesives that don't emit VOCs. Use pre-glued or water-based adhesives for vinyl composition flooring tiles, or consider more durable, non-porous ceramic flooring.
- Hardwood cabinets and solid surface countertops have few of the toxic characteristics of synthetic materials. If using formaldehyde-based particle board products, laminate or seal all surfaces and edges to reduce offgassing.
- Cover the underside of the countertop above the dishwasher with galvanized metal to protect it from humidity.
Efficient range hood
- Normal activites in kitchens produce water vapour and odours.Install a range hood, vented to the exterior, to improve the air quality of your kitchen. Look for low noise, energy efficient products.
Air vent
- Replace stale or exhausted air with fresh incoming air by having a balanced ventilation system.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient task lighting
- When redesigning, think about your lighting needs. Compact fluorescent fixtures are four times more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs. Design your lighting system to provide higher lighting levels over work areas.
Upgraded exterior walls
- Design for high levels of energy efficiency in the exterior walls and windows. Make certain that an effecitve air barrier system is provided to prevent air leakage. Even minor renovations should include air sealing around windows, electrical boxes and at all penetrations, such as for exhaust fans. If replacing or installing windows, consider high-performance energy rated windows.
Resource Efficiency
Low water use dishwasher
- New dishwasher designs can reduce water consumption by 50%
Faucet aerator
- Cut down on wasted water. A facuet aerator can reduce water use by up to 60%.
Durable materials
- More durable materials (e.g. ceramic floors, solid surface countertops) last longer, and minimize the wasted of materials and resources for future replacements.
Environmental Responsibility
Construction waste
- ensure that the materials or products you're replacing dont become a burden on landfill sites. Reduce, reuse or recycle whenever possible.
Built-in recycling centre
- Consider including a recycling centre in your renovated kitchen, making it easier to separate materials for your recycling service and for your composter.
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
- Improving the energy and water efficiency of your kitchen will reduce the costs of operating your home and enhance its resale value. The incorporation of more durable materials will reduce the potential for furutre repair and replacement expenses. Many healthy materials and products are competitively priced. Consider their long-term benefits to your family and the environment.
Exteriors
Occupant Health
Isolated interior environment
Temporary ventilation
Currently located air intake and exhaust
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Ensure that intake and exhaust vents are installed correctly and not located near sources of contamination. Adequate clearances and separations between the intake and exhaust, and an understanding of air flows at building corners, will ensure good intake and air quality.
Energy Efficiency
Upgraded ceilings and exterior walls
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Increasing insulation levels when replacing siding is almost always justifiable. Rigid insulation can be added over wall sheathing, or new exterior frame walls can be constructued to accommodate new batt insulation. The installation of an effective air barrier, which permits vapour diffusion, can improve comfort levels and reduce energy use.
High-performance windows and doors
Built-in shading
Resource Efficiency
Durable Materials
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More durable materials such as 30-year shingles, metal, slate or tile roofing can save resources and costs, especially when the costs of reinstallation are considered.
Appropriate Materials
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Products made from renewable materials such as wood, or plentiful materials such as brick, are preferable to products made from scarce, non-renewable materials. Using locally produced materials will reduce burdens on transportation systems.
Moisture Protection
Environmental Responsibility
Construction waste
Low maintenance products
Hazardous Waste
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
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Enhanced energy efficiency will reduce the cost of operating your home and will improve comfort. Low maintenance materials such as brick or metal siding, may cost less over the life of the product than wood siding, which requires repainting every few years.
Interiors
Occupant Health
Low emission materials and products
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When selecting materials for the interior, minimize the use of products and materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Use paints, stains and sealants that don't emit VOCs. Use pre-glued or water-based adhesives for vinyl composition flooring tiles.
Natural carpeting and area rugs
Hard surface flooring materials
Solid wood cabinets
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Cabinets and furniture made from solid hardwood or softwood have few of the toxic characteristics of composite or synthetic materials. Some plywoods and particle boards are available without formaldehyde. If formaldehyde-based material is used, laminate or seal all edges and surfaces to reduce offgassing.
Furnishings that minimize dust
Energy Efficiency
Air sealing around penetrations
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Provide basic air sealing even when simple redecorating. Use low-VOC caulking and gaskets to seal around window and door openings, baseboards, electrical outlets, ventilation openings and ceiling light fixtures.
Upgraded exterior walls
Energy efficient task lighting
Resource Efficiency
Resource efficient materials
Recycled materials
Durable materials
Environmental Responsibility
Construction waste
Chemical-free cleansers
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
Landscapes
Occupant Health
Pesticide- and herbicide-free maintenance
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The best controls for insect pests are natural ones (birds and beneficial insects). Make sure the garden has a variety of small trees and shrubs to attract wildlife.
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In plant beds, apply a 4-cm layer of mulch to discourage weed growth.
Reduced use of chemical fertilizers
Organic vegetable garden
Energy Efficiency
Reduced lawn area
Trees for windbreak and shade
Efficient exterior lighting
Shading for west windows
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West windows are a major source of heat gain in summer. For ground floor windows, consider trellises with broad-leaved vines or climbing perennials to provide cooling shade. On upper floors, consider decorative awnings to shade windows.
Resource Efficiency
Rain collection system (cistern)
Efficient watering system
Environmental Responsibility
Responsible use of water
Reduced surface run-off
Drought-resistant native species
Composter for organic wastes
Affordability
Life cycle analysis
