Building Science
Principles behind building a safer, more comfortable home
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What Is an Energy Efficient Building?
An energy efficient building in Canada is designed to reduce energy consumption, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and perform well in all seasons—including harsh winters and hot summers.
Using smart design, advanced materials, and the latest in building science, energy efficient buildings offer year-round comfort, lower utility bills, and a smaller environmental footprint.
Whether you're constructing a home in Ontario, a cabin in British Columbia, or a commercial building in Alberta, understanding the core principles of building science is key to building sustainably in the Canadian climate.
Using smart design, advanced materials, and the latest in building science, energy efficient buildings offer year-round comfort, lower utility bills, and a smaller environmental footprint.
Whether you're constructing a home in Ontario, a cabin in British Columbia, or a commercial building in Alberta, understanding the core principles of building science is key to building sustainably in the Canadian climate.
Why Energy Efficiency Is Essential in Canada
Canada's vast and varied climate makes energy efficiency more than a luxury—it's a necessity.
Climate Resilience
From sub-zero winters to hot & humid summers, energy efficient buildings maintain comfort in every region—from the Prairies to the Maritimes.
Lower Energy Bills
Heating accounts for over 60% of energy use in Canadian homes. Efficiency upgrades dramatically reduce monthly utility costs.
Environmental Impact
Buildings contribute significantly to Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-smart construction supports Canada’s climate goals.
Improved Comfort & Air Quality
High-performance building envelopes and proper ventilation improve indoor health and energy loss through leaky walls, windows, and roof.
Core Principles of Energy Efficient Building in Canada
1. Thermal Insulation Tailored to Canadian Climate Zones
Effective insulation is critical in a country where temperatures can range from -40°C to +35°C.
Insulate:
Insulate:
- Attics and cathedral ceilings (minimum R-60 in colder zones)
- Basement walls and slabs
- Above-grade walls (target R-24 to R-35+ depending on region)
Tip: Use continuous exterior insulation to reduce thermal bridging and improve envelope performance.
2. High-Performance Windows and Doors
Choose superior performance windows (we use Innotech Windows and Doors) rated for your climate zone.
Innotech provides:
Innotech provides:
- Air tight and water tight windows and doors with a high structural wind load resistance
- Unique Hybrid Framing System
- More than high performance - Innotech’s windows and doors provide superior performance on all levels.
Triple-glazed windows can reduce heating energy use by over 20%.
3. Airtightness
Tighten the building envelope with professional air sealing and vapor barrier (target ≤1.5 ACH for high performance homes).
Pair with:
Pair with:
- Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) or Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)
- Proper duct design and balancing
- Effective air and weather-tight membranes
4. Efficient Heating & Cooling Systems
Reduce energy loads by installing:
- Cold-climate air-source heat pumps (ASHPs)
- In-floor radiant systems
- Zoned smart thermostats
- Solar thermal water heating
BRINK HRV & ERVs work hard to bring fresh air into your house without compromising airtightness.
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Training & Events
Product Introduction and Hands-On Installation Training.
Virtual Conferences
Webinars
Online Workshops
Training
We’re passionate about building science, and so is our community.
Global Passive Happy Hour
Wednesdays at 4 pm PST
Fast, fun, factual, and free. These virtual gatherings are a place for the Passive House community to come together.
Get Details Here
Integrating Foam Glass into a High Performance Home
On-Demand Webinar
Learn ways Glavel can integrate into a high performance home and its benefits.
Watch Webinar Here
The Beginner's Guide to High-Performance Air Sealing
On-Demand Webinar
Let SIGA show you how easy it is to create an air tight building envelope on your next project.
Watch Webinar Here
CHBA Adaptiv Home Renovation Course
March-April & June courses available!
This course is aimed at renovators, designers, and other professionals who want to learn more about the aging in place market and the growing business opportunities across the country. The emphasis of this course is on improving design with safety, security, easy of use, comfort, accessibility, and occupant health, and will include a building knowledge component.
Learn More
Certified Passive House Designer Course
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12-4:30 pm EDT, July 5-28
In this course you will gain the foundation Passive House design and construction knowledge necessary to prepare you to tackle your first Passive House project as well as write the Certified Passive House Consultant exam. Get training from the most respected consultants in the field.
Our trainers are active consultants working on pioneering projects within the industry. Our breadth and depth of experience with different project types are unmatched by other training providers
Our trainers are active consultants working on pioneering projects within the industry. Our breadth and depth of experience with different project types are unmatched by other training providers
Register Now
