HFO-blown spray foam to prevent air leakage, improve waterproofing

The growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions drives building engineers and architects to search for innovative and cost-effective ways to optimize insulation. One such cutting-edge insulation technology is hydrofluoroolefins-blown (HFO-blown) spray foam insulation, a high-performing, eco-friendly alternative to traditional insulating materials such as fibreglass or mineral wool.

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Standards help build a barrier-free Canada

Accessibility is generally recognized as an important element of architectural design practice. Over the past two decades, municipalities, provinces, and territories across the country developed various policies, guidelines, and codes aiming to improve accessibility of public buildings and spaces, as well as dwellings.

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Integrating mass timber in low-rise construction

With operating energy reductions now incentivized by Passive House Canada and zero-carbon building programs, alongside incremental improvements mandated in legislation such as theBC Energy Step Code, increased attention is being given to the embodied carbon in buildings. In this regard, mass timber products and systems offer reduced carbon impacts, shorter construction times, and enhanced building performance.

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Overcladding masonry facades: Additional practical insights

As an alternative to removing and replacing the original masonry, project teams and architects are encouraged to design an insulated facade layer with vapour barrier, creating a new enclosure that is watertight and energy efficient, and possibly more attractive. This raises a question about how to ensure the ideal placement and attachment of the insulation, air barrier, and cladding.

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