What is the “R-2000” Standard of New Home Ratings?
Canadians are faced with a number of programs which quantify the energy efficiency and "green score" of their homes. As part of an ongoing series of articles on energy efficient new homes, we are…
Understanding energy efficiency – A house is a system
A house is made up of components that work together to form an integrated system. The performance of one component depends on its relationship with other components in the same system. Your home's…
EnerGuide Rating for New Homes
There are a number of different construction standards for low energy and/or green homes in Canada. Depending on the region of Canada you are in, you may be familiar with one or more of the following…
Ten Myths About the New Energy-efficient CFL Light Bulbs
The BC government is phasing out the old inefficient incandescent light bulbs, as a way to help us save money and become more energy efficient, but as a result, there’s a lot of myth-making going on…
Earthquake awareness – tips to prepare for ‘the big one’
Not all of our readers live in earthquake zones but coastal BC is very much aware of the need to be prepared for 'the big one'. A province-wide initiative resulted in Canada's largest earthquake…
Good-bye incandescent bulbs, hello mercury
The most popular sizes of incandescent light bulbs will disappear from most store shelves in B.C. within the next few weeks and the most common replacement lights cost up to 10 times more to buy.…
We want your natural corks!
A lot of corks will be popping this evening, you may want to think about some creative recycling! An Ontario company specializes in the recycling of natural cork. Jelinek Cork Group has been…
Holiday Parody – On the 7th day of building… seven trucks a-pouring!
Our parody on the Twelve Days of Christmas continues. We dare you not to sing them out loud! Seven trucks a-pouring, Six formers forming, Five golden kings! (of finance that is!) Four house plans…
Holiday Parody – On the 6th day of building…6 Formers Forming!
Our parody on the Twelve Days of Christmas continues. We dare you not to sing them out loud! Six formers forming, Five golden kings! (of finance that is!) Four house plans to choose from, Three…
When to replace windows
“Replacing windows is one of the best investments a homeowner can make today. New energy-efficient, eye-appealing, easy to operate and maintain windows add value to the home, especially at resale…
Double-duty recycling of building supplies
Whether you are doing a remodel, a renovation or building new, it is surprising to find how many useable materials end up in site dumpsters. It seems like such a shame but these items can be…
Hazardous Household Materials: Lead Paint
The dangers of lead paint have been widely publicized, but how do you know if your family is in danger? The existence of lead paint in a home or building does not pose an immediate danger except…
