North File Factsheets Being Finalized
Six draft factsheets were distributed to the NoRTH Committee for review. The reports deal with various housing topics and their relevance for northern Canada. Here is a brief summary of the factsheets.
New Window and Door Technology
video slots in lineaWindows and doors have performed poorly in the North - both thermally and mechanically. Recent developments in window technology have increase the energy performance of windows. This report examines problems and modes of failure; window, hardware, framing material, and weatherstripping developments; design improvements; and costs.
Hydronic Air Heating
Hydronic heating is becoming popular in sub-Arctic and Arctic housing for several reasons. The system does not require fans or ductwork so costs are reduced; in-floor piping helps keep floors warm; and hydronic systems can be integrated into the domestic hot water and space heating systems, reducing maintenance costs and stack losses. The factsheet examines the pros and cons of hydronic systems, system components, design factors, maintenance, performance and cost.
Energy Considerations in the Design of Northern Housing
Energy efficient housing in severe climates must address competing needs. The house must be affordable to build and operate while durable, providing comfort and easy maintenance. It must also meet the needs of the occupants. The factsheet focuses on energy design considerations including climate and weather; soils and landscape; passive solar energy; fuel availability and cost; material availability and transportation; labour skill levels; and lifestyle and layout.
The Principles and Dilemmas of Designing Durable House Envelopes for the North
Durable building design uses the house as a system concept - the building envelope, the mechanical systems and the occupants are all related in the lifecycle of the house. The report explains the relationship between the factors that are critical in house design including heat, air and moisture flow and weather control.
In-Situ Thermal Testing of Wall Sections in N.W.T.
Four houses in Rankin Inlet, N.W.T., were evaluated to determine whether insulation values in the walls were affected by the harsh northern environment. The results suggest that the houses constructed after 1984 have not had significant reductions in insulating value of the composite wall sections. However, the study recommends that detailed infrared thermography inspections be conducted on many houses of various construction types to substantiate the findings.
ofertas hoteles ZandvoortDesign Assessment of Super-Insulated Houses in the Keewatin District of the Northwest Territories
In 1981, seven demonstration houses were built in the Keewatin District. The houses were designed to be highly energy efficient, suited to the northern climate and lifestyle and able to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks in the event of a community power failure.
luxury hotels in WarsawThe factsheet summarizes an evaluation by Scanada Consultants Limited of the energy performance and fuel consumption for four of the demonstration houses. Comparisons were made to conventional units of similar age, within the community.
For more information contact:
Frank Pelley,
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
(613) 748-2502