Construction Practices

Advanced 2x6 inch framing on 24 inch centres

The smart use of wood to build sturdy, well-designed walls is the principle behind advanced framing. Much like the way computers are used to engineer the structure of a car, the framing of the home is analyzed to maximize strength and prevent unnecessary over use of studs. Not only do excess studs waste wood, they also lower the energy efficiency of the wall. Framing on 24" centres instead of 16" centres improved the overall thermal performance of the wall. And, 2x6 inch studs are used for strength and to provide a larger insulation cavity to fill.

Recycled material substitution

Throughout the homes, recycled alternatives have been used where the performance is equal to, or better than, that of new materials.

• Recycled paint from a paint recycling plant
• Recycled drywall with over 75% recycled content
• Recycled engineered flooring
• Recycled steal beams with over 95% recycled content
• Recycled concrete with over 30% recycled fly ash content
• Recycled mineral batt insulation in the basement
• Recycled quartz countertops

On-site waste diversion and recycling program

Unlike most construction site, the one around these homes produces very little waste that will go to the landfill. By sorting out the wood, cardboard, plastic, and other recyclables, the site diverts over 60% of the waste that would otherwise be clogging landfills.

Bio-diesel powered on-site machinery

In an effort to lower the carbon footprint of these homes even further, all the on-site machinery, such as back how and earth movers, were fuelled with bio-diesel, a mixture of renewable plant-based and nonrenewable fossil-derived fuels.

LEED tested and certified homes

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certification program is North America's elite testing and certification system for homes, high-rise residences, and commercial buildings. The LEED for Homes program has just come to Canada, and all these homes are part of an industry leading case study project to set the highests standards for Canadian building. LEED assess homes across eight categories: Innovation and Design Process, Location and Linkages, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Education and Awareness. Homes can be certified to four achievement levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum (with Platinum being the highest).