{"data":{"post":{"date":"2019-02-05T14:19:50","title":"You Want Me to Cut What?","content":"

Cutting down the last of 200 feet of parapet wall should improve the view from this Penthouse remodel.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/iframe><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/community-news\/?_sft_category=video\">See more video blogs<\/a><\/p>\n","author":{"node":{"name":"Ecstatic"}},"categories":{"nodes":[{"name":"Video"}]},"seo":{"metaDesc":"Discover how we helped this homeowner with their condo balcony renovation. See the work performed in this amazing downtown Vancouver penthouse renovation.","title":"Downtown Vancouver Penthouse Renovation | Condo Balcony Renovation","twitterTitle":"","twitterDescription":""},"featuredImage":{"node":{"sourceUrl":"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Screen-Shot-2019-02-05-at-2.22.46-PM.png","altText":"workers working on a skyscraper","mediaDetails":{"width":911,"height":655}}},"relatedPosts":{"nodes":[{"title":"What Is a Home Energy Assessment?","uri":"\/what-is-a-home-energy-assessment\/","content":"A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/services\/project-management\">home energy assessmen<\/strong>t<\/span><\/a>, sometimes called an energy audit, analyzes how your house uses, loses, and conserves energy. Certified energy advisors visit the property, inspect its envelope and mechanical systems, and run tests to find air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient appliances. The result is a set of data-backed recommendations you can follow to cut energy costs and enhance comfort. In British Columbia, assessments also generate a government-recognised <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/natural-resources.canada.ca\/energy-efficiency\/product-energy-ratings\/energuide\">EnerGuide rating<\/a><\/strong> that helps homeowners track improvements over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>The Importance of a Home Energy Assessment<\/span><\/h2>\nEnergy bills rise quickly when conditioned air slips through cracks, ducts leak, or equipment runs longer than necessary. An assessment provides the evidence you need to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Lower monthly utility costs.<\/b> Pinpointing leaks and inefficient systems lets you prioritise upgrades with the biggest payback.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Improve indoor comfort and air quality.<\/b> Better sealing and balanced ventilation eliminate drafts, reduce humidity swings, and keep pollutants in check.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Meet BC Energy Step Code targets.<\/b> Municipalities increasingly require proof of energy performance for major renovations; an assessment supplies the baseline data.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Qualify for rebates.<\/b> Most provincial and federal incentive programs insist on a pre- and post-retrofit evaluation by a licensed energy advisor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Boost resale value.<\/b> A documented EnerGuide label reassures future buyers that the home is economical to operate.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4093\" src=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"spacious condo with wooden floor design\" width=\"767\" height=\"511\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/condominium-space-2048x1367.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 767px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Scope of a Home Energy Evaluation<\/span><\/h2>\nDuring a typical visit the energy advisor will conduct or arrange:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Energy advisor evaluation<\/b> \u2013 full walkthrough of building envelope and systems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Assess air quality & energy efficiency<\/b> \u2013 blower-door test, duct leakage test, and ventilation review<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Provide the best materials to maximise energy efficiency<\/b> \u2013 insulation types, window specs, HVAC options<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Suggestions to improve energy usage<\/b> \u2013 prioritised upgrade list with estimated savings and payback periods<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Test the home at completion<\/b> \u2013 post-retrofit blower-door test to verify improvements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Final report for an EnerGuide label<\/b> \u2013 official documentation and rating certificate<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nEven if you searched \u201chome energy assessment near me,\u201d the core<\/span> process follows these same nationally recognised steps to ensure consistent, reliable results.<\/span><\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4526\" src=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together\" width=\"769\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/a-meeting-of-architects-who-work-hard-together-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 769px) 100vw, 769px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Professional Home Energy Assessments vs. DIY Checks<\/span><\/h2>\nWhile basic tips\u2014such as feeling for drafts\u2014can be done by anyone, a full evaluation demands specialised instruments, software, and certification. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/services\/full-home-renovations\">Etheridge Home Renovation<\/a><\/strong> partners only with licensed energy advisors who:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Carry calibrated blower-door and infrared imaging equipment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Stay current with Vancouver-specific building codes and rebate criteria<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Provide stamped reports accepted by permit offices and utility programmes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Understand how renovation choices interact, preventing costly rework later<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nSkipping professional help risks incomplete data, missed rebates, and renovations that fail to achieve planned savings. Partnering with specialists means the upgrades you invest in will perform as promised\u2014backed by measurable proof.<\/span><\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4534\" src=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home\" width=\"770\" height=\"513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/home-energy-assessment-of-a-beautiful-home.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Is there an eligibility criterion from Etheridge Home Renovation?<\/h3>\nYes. As part of our design\/permit workflow, an energy advisor assesses every home we renovate. This early involvement lets the team integrate energy-efficiency strategies into drawings and material selections rather than adding them as afterthoughts. No additional prerequisites apply; if you are planning a renovation with our firm, the assessment is built into the service.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<h3>How do I get a home energy assessment?<\/h3>\nSimply <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/contact\">contact the Etheridge team<\/a><\/strong>. We will schedule a site visit with one of our certified advisors, handle all paperwork, and guide you through any rebate applications that the evaluation unlocks.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/h2>\n <\/p>\nQ: How do energy assessments help homeowners improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and achieve long-term cost savings?<\/strong><\/p>\nA:<\/strong> By evaluating a home’s energy performance, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending tailored improvements, energy assessments not only contribute to environmental stewardship but also promise<\/span> long-term financial savings.<\/b><\/p>\nQ: How do I sign up for a home energy assessment in Vancouver?<\/b><\/p>\nA:<\/strong> Reach out through our website\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/contact\">contact form<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or <\/span><a href=\"tel:(604)-292-6173\">call our Vancouver office<\/strong><\/span><\/a>. We\u2019ll confirm a convenient time, outline any documents you should have ready (previous utility bills, renovation drawings), and explain the fee structure\u2014often rebated once work proceeds.<\/span><\/p>\nQ: What\u2019s involved in a home energy assessment?<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Pre-visit questionnaire<\/b> \u2013 gather basic information on your home\u2019s size, age, and past upgrades.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Exterior & interior inspection<\/b> \u2013 review insulation, windows, doors, and mechanical equipment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Blower-door test<\/b> \u2013 depressurise the house to locate air leaks and measure overall airtightness.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Infrared scan<\/b> \u2013 identify hidden insulation gaps and moisture issues.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Mechanical analysis<\/b> \u2013 check furnace, heat pump, water heater, and ventilation efficiency.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Modelling & reporting<\/b> \u2013 software generates your EnerGuide rating and upgrade roadmap.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Post-retrofit verification<\/b> \u2013 after improvements are complete, a second test confirms performance gains.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <\/p>\n<h2>What’s involved in a home energy assessment\u200b?<\/span><\/h2>\nA home energy assessment starts with a brief questionnaire and interview to capture your home\u2019s age, size, and any past upgrades. A certified energy advisor then inspects insulation, windows, doors, HVAC equipment, and ventilation, and runs a blower-door test plus an infrared scan to measure air leakage and heat loss. They model the data with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/natural-resources.canada.ca\/\">NRCan<\/a><\/strong> software to generate an EnerGuide rating and a prioritized list of cost-effective upgrades. Once improvements are completed, the advisor repeats key tests to verify the results and issues the final report and label.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<h3>Ready to Start?<\/h3>\nA professional home energy assessment Vancouver homeowners can trust is the first step toward lower bills, greater comfort, and a lighter environmental footprint. Let <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/\">Etheridge Home Renovation<\/a><\/strong>\u2019s certified energy advisors provide the insight you need. Contact us today to book your assessment and put your renovation on the path to peak efficiency.<\/span><\/p>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n \"mainEntity\": [{\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"How do energy assessments help homeowners improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and achieve long-term cost savings?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"By evaluating a home\u2019s energy performance, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending tailored improvements, energy assessments not only contribute to environmental stewardship but also promise long-term financial savings.\"\n }\n },{\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"How do I sign up for a home energy assessment in Vancouver?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Reach out through our website\u2019s contact form or call our Vancouver office. 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A certified energy advisor then inspects insulation, windows, doors, HVAC equipment, and ventilation, and runs a blower-door test plus an infrared scan to measure air leakage and heat loss. They model the data with NRCan software to generate an EnerGuide rating and a prioritized list of cost-effective upgrades. Once improve\"\n }\n }]\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"Article\",\n \"mainEntityOfPage\": {\n \"@type\": \"WebPage\",\n \"@id\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/post\/what-is-a-home-energy-assessment\"\n },\n \"headline\": \"What Is a Home Energy Assessment?\",\n \"description\": \"A home energy assessment, sometimes called an energy audit, analyzes how your house uses, loses, and conserves energy. Certified energy advisors visit the property, inspect its envelope and mechanical systems, and run tests to find air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient appliances. The result is a set of data-backed recommendations you can follow to cut energy costs and enhance comfort. In British Columbia, assessments also generate a government-recognised EnerGuide rating that helps homeowners track improvements over time. The Importance of a Home Energy Assessment Energy bills rise quickly when conditioned air slips through cracks, ducts leak, or equipment runs longer than necessary. An assessment provides the evidence you need to: Lower monthly utility costs. Pinpointing leaks and inefficient systems lets you prioritise upgrades with the biggest payback. Improve indoor comfort and air quality. Better sealing and balanced ventilation eliminate drafts, reduce humidity swings, and keep pollutants in check. Meet BC Energy Step Code targets. Municipalities increasingly require proof of energy performance for major renovations; an assessment supplies the baseline data. Qualify for rebates. Most provincial and federal incentive programs insist on a pre- and post-retrofit evaluation by a licensed energy advisor. Boost resale value. A documented EnerGuide label reassures future buyers that the home is economical to operate. Scope of a Home Energy Evaluation During a typical visit the energy advisor will conduct or arrange: Energy advisor evaluation \u2013 full walkthrough of building envelope and systems Assess air quality & energy efficiency \u2013 blower-door test, duct leakage test, and ventilation review Provide the best materials to maximise energy efficiency \u2013 insulation types, window specs, HVAC options Suggestions to improve energy usage \u2013 prioritised upgrade list with estimated savings and payback periods Test the home at completion \u2013 post-retrofit blower-door test to verify improvements Final report for an EnerGuide label \u2013 official documentation and rating certificate Even if you searched \u201chome energy assessment near me,\u201d the core process follows these same nationally recognised steps to ensure consistent, reliable results. Professional Home Energy Assessments vs. DIY Checks While basic tips\u2014such as feeling for drafts\u2014can be done by anyone, a full evaluation demands specialised instruments, software, and certification. Etheridge Home Renovation partners only with licensed energy advisors who: Carry calibrated blower-door and infrared imaging equipment Stay current with Vancouver-specific building codes and rebate criteria Provide stamped reports accepted by permit offices and utility programmes Understand how renovation choices interact, preventing costly rework later Skipping professional help risks incomplete data, missed rebates, and renovations that fail to achieve planned savings. Partnering with specialists means the upgrades you invest in will perform as promised\u2014backed by measurable proof. Is there an eligibility criterion from Etheridge Home Renovation? Yes. As part of our design\/permit workflow, an energy advisor assesses every home we renovate. This early involvement lets the team integrate energy-efficiency strategies into drawings and material selections rather than adding them as afterthoughts. No additional prerequisites apply; if you are planning a renovation with our firm, the assessment is built into the service. How do I get a home energy assessment? Simply contact the Etheridge team. We will schedule a site visit with one of our certified advisors, handle all paperwork, and guide you through any rebate applications that the evaluation unlocks.\",\n \"image\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/post\/what-is-a-home-energy-assessment\", \n \"author\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"Etheridge Home Renovation\",\n \"url\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/\"\n }, \n \"publisher\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"Etheridge Home Renovation\",\n \"logo\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/\"\n }\n },\n \"datePublished\": \"\"\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n","featuredImage":{"node":{"sourceUrl":"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/analysis-of-the-external-heat-lost-in-a-villa-with-840x600.jpg"}}},{"title":"What is a Net Zero Home Renovation: A Beginner\u2019s Guide","uri":"\/what-is-net-zero-home-renovation-a-beginners-guide\/","content":"An increasing number of Canadians are asking how they can live comfortably while shrinking their carbon footprint. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/services\/full-home-renovations\">Net zero home renovations<\/strong><\/span><\/a> offer a practical answer. Rather than relying solely on fossil fuels, a net zero home renovation balances the energy a dwelling uses with the clean energy it produces, bringing annual consumption down to \u201czero.\u201d If you are new to the idea, this beginner\u2019s guide to net zero homes will walk you through the essentials, bust a few myths, and set you up with realistic first steps. By the end, you will understand why net zero home renovations aren\u2019t a futuristic luxury\u2014they are an attainable pathway to lower utility bills, healthier indoor air, and genuine climate action.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Does Net Zero Mean?<\/b><\/h2>\n\u201cNet zero\u201d refers to a state in which a building\u2019s total annual energy use is offset by renewable generation, usually from on-site solar or a community renewable program. Achieving a net zero energy home hinges on two goals: slashing consumption and producing clean power. Begin by identifying where your house wastes energy\u2014drafty windows, an under-insulated attic, or an aging furnace\u2014and address those leaks first. Once the load is low, renewable systems step in to supply the remaining demand. The result is a comfortable, resilient dwelling that can reduce home energy consumption by up to 80 percent before renewables even come into play.<\/span><\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4515 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-1024x680.jpg\" alt=\"balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house\" width=\"640\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-1536x1020.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/balcony-and-awning-of-modern-house-2048x1360.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Key Components of a Net Zero Renovation<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Improved Insulation and Air Sealing \n<\/b>Heat escapes through gaps in the building envelope far faster than most homeowners realize. Dense-pack cellulose in walls, spray foam around rim joists, and a continuous air barrier under the attic lid keep warmth indoors during a Vancouver winter and cool air inside in July. Proper air sealing also prevents moisture intrusion, a leading cause of mould in Canadian homes.<\/li>\n<li>High-Efficiency Windows and Doors \n<\/b>Triple-pane, low-emissivity (low-E) glazing trimmed with insulated frames forms another critical layer. ENERGY STAR\u00ae certified windows and insulated exterior doors reduce conductive heat loss while minimizing drafts, letting smaller heating systems handle the load.<\/li>\n<li>Renewable Energy Systems \n<\/b>Solar photovoltaic panels remain the most common choice, but air-source or ground-source heat pumps paired with solar thermal collectors can push performance even further. In provinces where grid-tied net-metering is available, excess summer production earns credits that offset winter draws, helping you reach net zero energy home targets without batteries.<\/li>\n<li>Efficient Heating, Cooling & Appliances \n<\/b>A high-performance building envelope lets you downsize mechanical equipment. Cold-climate heat pumps provide both heating and air conditioning at a fraction of the energy used by traditional furnaces or baseboard heaters. Look for ENERGY STAR\u00ae appliances\u2014induction ranges, heat-pump dryers, and variable-speed compressors\u2014to trim everyday consumption.<\/li>\n<li>Smart Home Energy Management \n<\/b>Smart thermostats, sub-metering, and real-time monitoring apps give homeowners a transparent picture of where electricity is going. Automated controls can shift large loads\u2014like electric-vehicle charging or water-heater operation\u2014into midday hours when solar output peaks, making net zero house renovation goals easier to meet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Steps to Start Your Net Zero Renovation<\/b><\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Book an EnerGuide home evaluation.<\/b> Certified energy advisors conduct blower-door tests and thermal imaging to pinpoint losses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Set performance targets.<\/b> Aim for at least 50 percent better than code before adding renewables; every kilowatt-hour saved is one you never have to generate.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Create a phased plan.<\/b> If the budget is tight, begin with low-cost air sealing, then tackle insulation, windows, and HVAC. Renewable energy systems come last, once the load is minimized.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Leverage incentives.<\/b> Federal programs such as the Canada Greener Homes Loan and provincial rebates reduce upfront costs for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/post\/what-is-green-building\">green home remodeling<\/a><\/strong> projects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">Hire experienced professionals.<\/b> Net zero renovation requires architects, builders, and electricians who understand vapour control, solar design, and energy modelling. Credentials from the Canadian Home Builders\u2019 Association Net Zero program signal expertise.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4514 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-1024x680.jpg\" alt=\"wooden-staircase-in-modern-home\" width=\"640\" height=\"425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-1536x1020.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wooden-staircase-in-modern-home-2048x1360.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Common Myths About Net Zero Homes<\/b><\/h2>\n<blockquote>\u201cIt\u2019s too expensive.\u201d<\/b> Upfront costs are higher\u2014often 10 to 15 percent above conventional renovations\u2014but long-term operating savings, available rebates, and rising resale values frequently offset the premium within a decade.<\/span><\/p>\n\u201cOnly possible in new builds.\u201d<\/b> Retrofit projects regularly achieve net zero. Deep energy retrofits in older homes across Toronto, Halifax, and Victoria have proven that careful planning can turn a century-old structure into a net zero energy home upgrade success.<\/span><\/p>\n\u201cIt\u2019s just about solar panels.\u201d<\/b> Solar is important, yet efficiency does the heavy lifting. Without robust insulation and efficient equipment, even a large solar array cannot compensate for chronic waste.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\nNet zero renovation is ultimately an integrated, eco-friendly home upgrade strategy that balances the building envelope, mechanical systems, and renewable generation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><\/h3>\n1. Can I make my existing home net zero?<\/b> \n<\/b>It depends. While each house presents unique challenges, an energy audit followed by targeted envelope upgrades and renewable installations can bring most <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/services\">Canadian homes<\/a><\/strong> to net zero or very close.<\/span><\/p>\n2. Is net zero the same as energy-efficient?<\/b> \n<\/b>Energy-efficient homes focus on reducing consumption; net zero homes go one step further by meeting or exceeding their annual demand with on-site or off-site renewables.<\/span><\/p>\n3. How much do net zero renovations cost?<\/b> \n<\/b>Budgets vary based on size, climate, and starting condition, but a typical detached home may invest $30,000 to $70,000 for a comprehensive package. Incentives can lower that figure, and monthly utility savings help finance long-term returns.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n \"mainEntity\": [{\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"Can I make my existing home net zero?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"It depends. While each house presents unique challenges, an energy audit followed by targeted envelope upgrades and renewable installations can bring most Canadian homes to net zero or very close.\"\n }\n },{\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"Is net zero the same as energy-efficient?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Energy-efficient homes focus on reducing consumption; net zero homes go one step further by meeting or exceeding their annual demand with on-site or off-site renewables.\"\n }\n },{\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"How much do net zero renovations cost?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Budgets vary based on size, climate, and starting condition, but a typical detached home may invest $30,000 to $70,000 for a comprehensive package. Incentives can lower that figure, and monthly utility savings help finance long-term returns.\"\n }\n }]\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"Article\",\n \"mainEntityOfPage\": {\n \"@type\": \"WebPage\",\n \"@id\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/post\/what-is-net-zero-home-renovations-a-beginners-guide\"\n },\n \"headline\": \"What is Net Zero Home Renovations: A Beginner\u2019s Guide\",\n \"description\": \"An increasing number of Canadians are asking how they can live comfortably while shrinking their carbon footprint. Net zero home renovations offer a practical answer. Rather than relying solely on fossil fuels, a net zero house renovation balances the energy a dwelling uses with the clean energy it produces, bringing annual consumption down to \u201czero.\u201d If you are new to the idea, this beginner\u2019s guide to net zero homes will walk you through the essentials, bust a few myths, and set you up with realistic first steps. By the end, you will understand why net zero home renovations aren\u2019t a futuristic luxury\u2014they are an attainable pathway to lower utility bills, healthier indoor air, and genuine climate action.\nWhat Does Net Zero Mean?\n\u201cNet zero\u201d refers to a state in which a building\u2019s total annual energy use is offset by renewable generation, usually from on-site solar or a community renewable program. Achieving a net zero energy home hinges on two goals: slashing consumption and producing clean power. Begin by identifying where your house wastes energy\u2014drafty windows, an under-insulated attic, or an aging furnace\u2014and address those leaks first. Once the load is low, renewable systems step in to supply the remaining demand. The result is a comfortable, resilient dwelling that can reduce home energy consumption by up to 80 percent before renewables even come into play.\nKey Components of a Net Zero Renovation\nImproved Insulation and Air Sealing\nHeat escapes through gaps in the building envelope far faster than most homeowners realize. Dense-pack cellulose in walls, spray foam around rim joists, and a continuous air barrier under the attic lid keep warmth indoors during a Vancouver winter and cool air inside in July. Proper air sealing also prevents moisture intrusion, a leading cause of mould in Canadian homes.\nHigh-Efficiency Windows and Doors\nTriple-pane, low-emissivity (low-E) glazing trimmed with insulated frames forms another critical layer. Energy-Star\u00ae certified windows and insulated exterior doors reduce conductive heat loss while minimizing drafts, letting smaller heating systems handle the load.\nRenewable Energy Systems\nSolar photovoltaic panels remain the most common choice, but air-source or ground-source heat pumps paired with solar thermal collectors can push performance even further. In provinces where grid-tied net-metering is available, excess summer production earns credits that offset winter draws, helping you reach net zero energy home targets without batteries.\nEfficient Heating, Cooling & Appliances\nA high-performance building envelope lets you downsize mechanical equipment. Cold-climate heat pumps provide both heating and air-conditioning at a fraction of the energy used by traditional furnaces or baseboard heaters. Look for ENERGY STAR\u00ae appliances\u2014induction ranges, heat-pump dryers, and variable-speed compressors\u2014to trim everyday consumption.\nSmart Home Energy Management\nSmart thermostats, sub-metering, and real-time monitoring apps give homeowners a transparent picture of where electricity is going. Automated controls can shift large loads\u2014like electric-vehicle charging or water-heater operation\u2014into midday hours when solar output peaks, making net zero house renovation goals easier to meet.\nSteps to Start Your Net Zero Renovation\nBook an EnerGuide home evaluation. Certified energy advisors conduct blower-door tests and thermal imaging to pinpoint losses.<\/p>\nSet performance targets. Aim for at least 50 percent better than code before adding renewables; every kilowatt-hour saved is one you never have to generate.<\/p>\nCreate a phased plan. If budget is tight, begin with low-cost air sealing, then tackle insulation, windows, and HVAC. Renewable energy systems come last, once the load is minimized.<\/p>\nLeverage incentives. Federal programs such as the Canada Greener Homes Loan and provincial rebates reduce upfront costs for green home remodeling projects.<\/p>\nHire experienced professionals. Net zero renovation requires architects, builders, and electricians who understand vapour control, solar design, and energy modelling. Credentials from the Canadian Home Builders\u2019 Association Net Zero program signal expertise.<\/p>\nCommon Myths About Net Zero Homes\n\u201cIt\u2019s too expensive.\u201d Upfront costs are higher\u2014often 10 to 15 percent above conventional renovations\u2014but long-term operating savings, available rebates, and rising resale values frequently offset the premium within a decade.\n\u201cOnly possible in new builds.\u201d Retrofit projects regularly achieve net zero. Deep energy retrofits in older homes across Toronto, Halifax, and Victoria have proven that careful planning can turn a century-old structure into a net zero energy home upgrade success.\n\u201cIt\u2019s just about solar panels.\u201d Solar is important, yet efficiency does the heavy lifting. Without robust insulation and efficient equipment, even a large solar array cannot compensate for chronic waste.\nNet zero renovation is ultimately an integrated, eco-friendly home upgrade strategy that balances the building envelope, mechanical systems, and renewable generation.\",\n \"image\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/post\/what-is-net-zero-home-renovations-a-beginners-guide\", \n \"author\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"Etheridge Home Renovation\",\n \"url\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/\"\n }, \n \"publisher\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"Etheridge Home Renovation\",\n \"logo\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https:\/\/etheridgereno.com\/\"\n }\n },\n \"datePublished\": \"\"\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n","featuredImage":{"node":{"sourceUrl":"https:\/\/cms.weareecstatic.com\/etheridgehomereno\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/glass-windows-and-doors-of-modern-house-840x600.jpg"}}}]}}},"extensions":{"debug":[{"type":"DEBUG_LOGS_INACTIVE","message":"GraphQL Debug logging is not active. 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Published: 2/5/2019

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