Construction like everything else is evolving with the continued concerns with weather pattern changes, energy sources and consumption, livable environments and general health. Government policy, products, materials, and technology all play a part in improving the performance of a building. With this, the choices and methods to improve a building are varied and in some cases, incompatible products and methods can have a negative or neutral effect on a building. A simple principle to solving this dilemma is familiarity. Knowing the exterior finishes or preferred building method will help determine complementary details. Present codes are concerned with building methods, insulation, air tightness, energy consumption and mechanical systems. So a basic knowledge on some of these building components can go a long way in producing the desired building and building performance.
CLT INSTALLATION
Pre designed and cut , an installation of a house system and roof can be done in as fast as one or two days.
CLT
A very efficient, renewable and stable structural building system, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) has transformed traditional wood framed limitations of a 4-6 story structure to the building of 18-25 story wood high rises. CLT’s high fire rating, sound proofing and carbon sequestering properties, structural flexibility and rapid assembly makes it an incredible product. Where concrete slabs or steel beam structure is being considered, CLT is a very practical answer. CLT is also a great option for larger single family and multiplex structures and is growing in popularity.
ICF
Insulated blocks used to form the foundation of a house.
ICF (blocks)
Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) have been around for decades in Europe, but until recently they were not popular in North America.. ICFs are an efficient way of building foundations and wall structures. They remain in place after the concrete is poured and become an integral part of the foundation, creating a well insulated, air tight barrier that helps produce a warm, dry basement, Homes can be built completely of ICFs and this system works well in extremely warm or cold climates and climates where seasonal weather can swing +40 degrees Celsius.
EXTERIOR INSULATION
- RockWool
EXTERIOR INSULATION- Graphite EPS
INSULATION and AIR TIGHTNESS
Recent changes to the building codes are increasing the focus on efficient and high performing buildings. Building science and the industry has developed many new and progressive products to help with building performance, but two simple elements are key to high performance - Insulation and air tightness. Exterior insulation is the most effective method of reducing heat loss or gain in a building and air tightness prevents any potential building failures. Both of these systems are relatively simple to execute, however, the details, methods and type of insulation or air barrier needs to be determined in the planning stages. This allows for exterior finishes and details to be completed properly and ensures a quality building.
Mini Heat Pump
Heat Pump and Air Handler (Air Con)
EQUIPMENT (HVAC)
Heating and cooling is something often overlooked when building. Energy sources like electric or gas were considered interchangeable, However, carbon emissions, efficiencies, noise and evolving technology are changing how we consume energy. Natural gas is not banned, however, its use is restricted to very efficient buildings. The alternative at this time is heat pumps, an effective and efficient heating source, that runs on electricity (hydro electricity is considered carbon neutral). These heat pumps can be used to both heat and cool, and this can still leave an option to heat water with natural gas. Choosing a heating system requires thought and design calculations, so it is important to be familiar with the available systems.
