Planning & Designing Sustainable Green Homes

Explore the design-build model, a single-source solution that integrates architecture and construction. Learn how this approach streamlines green building projects, enhances accountability, and manages costs for both homeowners and professionals. Design-build companies are as simple as the name suggests, they bring…

The essential building science principle for placing insulation and vapor control layers to prevent condensation and moisture damage in high-performance walls. What is the two thirds rule? How insulation and wall assemblies work best In the world of durable, high-performance green building, few concepts are as…

Learn which appliances use the most energy, and strategies to reduce consumption and lower energy bills without too much sacrifice and effort. Homes have a lot of appliances and electronics that even when not in use can cost you money, and there are easy ways to save and lower your bills. For most people, reducing…

Identify lead paint in your home, understand the risks, and learn the safest ways to deal with it, from encapsulation to professional abatement. How to safely deal with lead paint in homes Lead-based paint is a serious health concern, especially in older homes, and understanding the risks and proper handling is…

The B.C. government has given the green light for tiny homes on wheels, but one crucial distinction will determine if your dream home is a legal dwelling or just an RV. B.C. paves the way for Tiny Homes on Wheels - here's what you need to know: In a landmark move for the sustainable housing movement, the British…

A comprehensive overview of external and internal shading strategies for optimizing passive solar design and maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. Homes designed for passive heating and cooling offer noticeably lower utility bills, not to mention increased comfort and security during power outages…

An expert guide to safely and effectively removing mold from wood framing in basements and attics using non-toxic, eco-friendly methods. Learn what works, what doesn't, and how to prevent it from coming back. Safe mold removal from wood framing Finding mold on the wood framing in your home's attic or basement can be…

A critical guide to identifying vermiculite, understanding the risks of asbestos, and the professional protocols for safe testing and removal. How to know if vermiculite insulation contains asbestos and what to do about it Vermiculite was a popular choice for home attic insulation from the 1920s to about 1990 in…

Learn what indoor air quality monitors are, what they measure, and how they can help you create a healthier, more comfortable home. Indoor air quality monitors: a homeowner's & pro's buyers guide You wouldn't buy a car without a dashboard, so why live in a home without a window into its air quality? Indoor air…

Transform an underused attic into a valuable, livable space. This guide covers everything from structural requirements and insulation to building codes and design, ensuring a safe, efficient, and successful renovation. Attic conversion: a homeowner's and pro's guide Transforming an underused attic into livable space…

A comprehensive guide to understanding home fire risks, creating effective emergency plans, and designing a fire-safe home. Home fire safety: a homeowner's and pro's guide Ensuring your home is safe from fire is one of the most critical responsibilities for a homeowner and a key consideration for building…