Standards of Energy Efficiency
In order to preserve our commitment to the environment, New Leaf Homes Ltd. has established minimum energy efficiency/sustainable features* that will be incorporated into each home. A slightly higher mortgage payment will be offset by added comfort, health, and long-term energy savings
"Many of the most valuable energy improvements are easier and cheaper to install while a home is being built. Any investment in energy efficiency improvements you make at the building stage will pay you back faster and, of course, will start to pay you back the day you move in." - Natural Resources Canada website.
- 2 zone, high efficient furnace with 2 stage variable speed motor
- Heat Recovery Ventilation system
- tankless hot water heater
- low flow showerheads
- Low-E windows on all sides with upgraded protection on south and west
- bamboo or equally sustainable flooring in 50% of house
- dual-flush toilets
- fan kits on fireplaces
- Medium Density Fibreboard baseboards
- rigid insulation (min. R7.5) under basement slab
- Tyvek wrap or equivalent under exterior finish
- Minimum 25 year shingles, avoidance of dark colours (reduces heat gain)
- drip-style humidifier
- exterior insulation wrap
- all duct joints sealed to prevent loss of pressure
- poly joints sealed at all seams
- compact fluorescents, LEDs, or halogen bulbs used wherever feasible
- ceiling fans in high ceiling areas
- programmable thermostats
- sustainable exterior finishes (eg. stucco, brick, concrete fibre siding)
- 3 foot roof overhang on South and West sides
- Basement walls are insulated with R12 batt insulation plus R8 rigid insulation between the batts and the concrete
- R17.5 rigid insulation installed below all cantilevers
- Rim boards have been insulated with R7.5 rigid insulation
*most are adapted from Built Green’s list of EE features: www.builtgreencanada.ca