Design / Discussions

...design that is sometimes used for super energy efficient homes. Larsen trusses refers to framework attached to the outside of sheathing to allow additional outboard insulation. see our article and DIY Larsen truss video here -  How to build a Larsen Truss wall for energy efficient homes Larsen trusses were developed in...

...designing a wall for cold Canadian temperatures, but I'm unsure where to start. Do you have any design specs? To build a sustainable and energy efficient home in a cold climate you will need sufficient insulation and an airtight building envelope. There is not one perfect wall system we would point you towards, but rat...

We were originally looking at recessed 4-in LEDs lighting across the cathedral ceiling (single story cottage in Quebec with insulated  R60 roof), but now concerned that all the holes for the lights in the ceiling could lead to venting and  loss of heat. Is this the case? Is there a way to mitigate venting and loss of h...

...design concepts for new home construction That second link is a great example of how to future proof homes against some of the concerns you mention, it comes from design features we applied to the Kenogami house, our first demonstration house. It's a LEED Platinum home that earned a most resilient house of the year awa...

How would you determine the thickness for a new construction of a slab on grade that will have only liquid forces acting down on it? Not sure what you mean by liquid forces, but a slab will perform differently depending many issues such as soil quality and bearing capacity. Slabs are most often edge loaded (where the l...

...design – any material can be chosen, success is measured by the right amount and proper applications of insulation and a focus on airtightness. Here is an example of a Passive House wall system with Larsen trusses and cellulose insulation that has an extremely low carbon footprint. So this full life cycle of that home ...