Technical Tour Highlights N.W.T. Housing Issues to NoRTH Committee

Marshall Wilson from the N.W.T. Housing Corporation conducted a lively tour around Yellowknife for committee members. Included were visits to housing projects and manufacturing plants featuring innovative solutions to northern challenges.

One unique local innovation is an add-on bathroom module for existing houses. The N.W.T. Housing Corporation provides modules on a needs basis, to homeowner clients with sub-standard or inadequate plumbing facilities. The module provides a washroom with hot and cold running water and sanitary sewage disposal. Units can be moved to a different house if required.

Manufacturers showed the committee several products of interest. Fiberglass North manufactures a low-profile sewage tank that fits inconspicuously in the crawlspace of northern homes. The tanks provide a simple solution to an unsightly problem. They also provide a bonus before installation, serving as convenient shipping containers for insulation. This "double duty" saves builders up to $1,500 in freight charges to remote communities.

Arlandastad accommodationPaul Bros. manufactures steel oil storage tanks and foundation jacks. The screw jacks are used extensively in housing units delivered by the N.W.T. Housing Corporation. The jacks are cheaper than piles and are more stable and easier to adjust than wood blocking.

Manuel Jorge is currently expanding his floor and roof truss manufacturing plant. The company has established a reputation for a quality product, very competitive pricing, on-schedule deliveries and customized configurations.

The N.W.T. Housing Corporation promotes local production of building products whenever possible. Other companies in Hay River produce cabinets, windows and doors. The tour demonstrated that local solutions to housing issues result in high quality products and viable businesses.

Valencia Hoteles centralesFor more information contact:
Marshall Wilson, N.W.T. Housing Corporation
(403) 873-7850