Air barriers can be installed on the exterior or as a combined interior/ exterior application. A well-detailed continuous air barrier can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 25 per cent and also minimize moisture damage in walls due to air leakage. Specially designed polyethylene tape, expanding insulating foam and flexible acoustical sealants are used to seal any intentional openings in the building envelope. These materials are critical for detailing all air barriers. The mandatory air tightness performance metrics let your customers know that their house has met the stringent requirements of the ENERGY STAR program. Every house is third party evaluated by a Natural Resources Canada Certified Energy Evaluator, with inspections, air tightness and air barrier testing (blower-door test).

Thermal bridging can reduce a home’s energy performance by nearly 24 per cent and can create cold spots where condensation or moisture can occur. Continuous exterior insulation combats this. To maximize effectiveness, consider the fastening and attachment used for insulation, as well as structural reinforcement solutions to brace walls with continuous exterior insulation without the need for full sheets of OSB or plywood. Explore insulation types, R values and performance characteristics.

By combining high R value insulation with effective installation techniques, builders can significantly increase the thermal performance of homes. The effective value of insulation improves if it is a continuous thermal barrier such as exterior foam sheathing. If framing is changed from 16 o.c. to 19.2 o.c. or 24 o.c., there is more room for insulation and less lumber, which increases overall effectiveness.

Warmer insulated surfaces are effective at controlling condensation. Exterior basement insulation (XPS or ICFs) can be options for controlling condensation by moving the dew point. Robust insulation systems below grade combined with detailed air sealing may also provide protection from soil gases and ground water infiltration. Additional measures to ensure basements stay dry are exterior bulk water and drainage control measures, as well as humidity control through dehumidification systems. Air sealing the rim joists and intentional openings into the basement with foam and flexible acoustical sealant is the first line of defense against air infiltration and condensation.

ENERGY STAR certified windows offer higher performance, and contribute significantly to comfort and health in a home. Better insulated windows reduce condensation in the winter and make the occupants feel warmer by reducing radiant heat loss. In the summer, optimized solar control (Solar Heat Gain) can reduce cooling loads. Window-to-wall ratios as well as house orientation significantly affect heating and cooling loads, HVAC sizing and ultimately occupant comfort. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR certified Zone 3 windows is an option when your goal is to optimize whole house energy performance.

High-performance homes have lower heating and cooling loads, lower operating costs and increase comfort. It is important to install “right-sized” mechanicals. Oversized systems tend to cycle on and off and fail to deliver conditioned air effectively. This affects both comfort and indoor air quality. An energy efficient home with a balanced Heat Recovery Ventilator results in controlled mechanical ventilation and fresh air control. When windows are closed, HRVs and ERVs should be running continuously. A requirement for ESNH is interlocking the furnace fan, ensuring both efficient ventilation and recirculation. Sealed duct systems and a better performing mechanical system with balanced HRV mean better distribution of conditioned air year-round.