Deep energy retrofits and EnerPHit upgrades
Deep energy retrofits for existing New Brunswick homes: air sealing, exterior insulation, window upgrades and EnerPHit-standard work that cuts heating costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a deep energy retrofit?
It means upgrading the whole shell of an existing house at once, instead of one piece at a time: air sealing, a layer of insulation wrapped around the outside, better windows, and an HRV for fresh air. The house ends up warmer, quieter, drier and far cheaper to heat.
What is EnerPHit?
EnerPHit is the Passive House standard for existing buildings. I use it as the target when planning a retrofit, whether or not you go after the certification itself.
Do I have to move out during a retrofit?
Usually not. When the work is on the outside of the house, with only a little inside work and a day or two for window swaps, you can stay put. Some houses need parts of the retrofit done from the inside, though, and adding an HRV or replacing the heating system means work inside too. I'll tell you up front what to expect for your house.
How much will I save on heating?
It depends on where the house is starting from. Older, leaky homes see the biggest drop, and a full deep retrofit can cut heating and cooling costs by 70 to 90%. The heating savings calculator on the Building Science page will give you a rough number for your own house.
Where do I start?
Send two photos of the outside of the house and a recent heating bill. A blower-door test and a walkthrough tell me where the heat is actually going. From there I'll tell you honestly whether the shell of the house or the heating system should come first.
Are there rebates or grants for energy retrofits?
Often, yes. New Brunswick's energy efficiency programs, run by NB Power through Save Energy NB, have offered rebates for insulation, air sealing, windows and heating equipment. For households under $70,000 in income, the Enhanced Energy Savings Program can cover upgrades completely. The rules and amounts change, so I check what's current when we plan your job, and some programs need an energy evaluation before any work starts.
Taulien Construction · Fredericton, New Brunswick · info@taulien.com · 506-230-5131