September-October Issue 2021

September/October 2021 | COMPLIMENTARY COPY

THE MAGAZINE OF ARCHITECTURE / HOME & INTERIOR DESIGN / WEST COAST LIVING

Modern Passive House Goes Net-Zero in West Vancouver Prefab & Modular Home Options A Sustainable Future: The Case for Energy Efficient Homes How to Reduce Energy Usage in Your Home

Party Rentals for every Event

Sally & Dale, Owners

Rent-It! Canada provides party and event rentals for every occasion. From intimate gatherings to large weddings and reunions, we will help you with all your event rental needs.

5654 Wharf Ave, Sechelt

604-885-2848 @Home on the Coast | 2

rentitcanada.ca

AFFORDABLE • ENERGY EFFICIENT • COAST LIVING

Laneway Homes / Cabins / Residences

www.EcoFab.ca • 604 989-8184 ecofabmodular

Proud Supporter of Sunshine Coast @Home on the Coast | 3

FROM THE DESK OF THE PUBLISHER Hello Fellow Coasters, Hope you’re making the best of the last few of weeks of this summer of the “Year of Living Dangerously” From the auto-renewing declaration of a state of emergency (for both Covid-19 and BC wildfires burning out of control) to the level 4 water restrictions and record-breaking temperatures in our own backyard. It’s been a record setting summer.

On a broader outlook, the U.N. Secretary-General has officially declared a global climate emergency (just in case anyone is still in denial). Then there’s the Afghan refugee crisis, flooding in Europe and China, increased and extended lockdowns, and a new variant of Covid-19 which is now sweeping the globe.

At the risk of sounding like a cockeyed optimist, I don’t see how it could get much worse. On a brighter note, we’ve got an election coming up and as we all know, that means change for the better.

Right? Excuse the sarcasm here but is that a light at the end of the tunnel? Let’s hope it’s not a freight train!

Copyright 2018 by Campaign Media. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any article, photograph, or artwork without express written permission of the publisher is forbidden. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Brad Ferguson, publisher@homeonthecoast.ca Contributing Writers Bryan Brasco Robin Merroitt Russ Qureshi GRAPHIC LAYOUT Darren Griffin MEDIA SALES

Anyway, It is what it is and as I’ve said more than once, we’re incredibly fortunate to be living here on the Sunshine Coast during these chaotic times.

advertising@homeonthecoast.ca

Hang in there, be safe, be considerate, and be grateful for our community.

Matt Preus

Regards,

Distribution

For Marketing and Advertising contact advertising@homeonthecoast.ca Printed in Canada on recyclable paper.

Publisher

because we think everyone, at every budget, deserves style, service and the peace-of-mind of the best warranty in the business.

Call for your free home consultation!

We’re Budget Blinds, and we’re North America’s #1 provider of custom We’re Budget Blinds, and we’re North window coverings. We do it all for America’s #1 provider custom you — design, measureof and install — window coverings.

We do itat all for because we think everyone, every deserves style, service and the— youbudget, — design, measure and install peace-of-mind the best warranty in because we thinkofeveryone, at every the business.

budget, deserves style, service and the Call for your free home consultation! peace-of-mind of the best warranty in the business.

@Home on the Coast | 4

604.304.4060 BudgetBlinds.com Graham Benjafield

With smart home automation we can help you save energy and greatly reduce your carbon foot print while providing simple, yet sophisticated control.

Lighting Control Motorized Window Treatments Environmental Control Multimedia Systems Network and Wireless Systems Security System Integration Audio Excellence is the Sunshine Coast's only authorized partner of the world's best smart home products.

CRESTRON®

www.audioexcellence.biz - 778.487.3003 info@audioexcellence.biz We believe that you should live life outdoors as much as possible. With a wide variety of outdoor-specific technology available, we can create the perfect entertainment space and soothing retreat Landscape Audio System Weatherproof TV systems Pool and Spa Integration Landscape and Outdoor Lighting Automation Seamless Outdoor Wi-Fi Systems

Let us help you build your outdoor entertainment oasis.

@Home on the Coast | 5

September/October 2021

CONTENTS

8 14 19

Modern Passive House Goes Net-Zero in West Vancouver Prefab & Modular Home Options A Sustainable Future: The Case for Energy-Efficient Homes

23

Local Resort Owners Embrace Modular

24

How to Reduce Energy Usage in Your Home

27 28 30 31 31

Sunshine Coast Classic Cars Sunshine Coast Real Estate Sales statistics for July 2021 A Framework for CommunityLevel Wildfire Preparedness SCCSA Update The Sunshine Coast needs a Highway

@Home on the Coast | 6

Garden Mix | Turf Blend | Mushroom Manure | Fir Bark Mulch

U A Q L I P T O Y T TOP SOIL Simply The Best Custom Blended Soils Since 1988

soil starting at $28 a yard Our soil meets BC Landscape Specs

Our soil is made of recycled green waste.

No dead diseased farm fish is in our soil. No biosolids.

VEGGIE VEGGIE MIX MIX a blend a blend of of compost sand, compost andmanure. manure. and

55 55

$$

00 00 / YARD / YARD

Proud Supplier to the Sunshine Coast Botanical Society and 40+ Contractors

CALL US TODAY!

604.740.7715

@Home on the Coast | 7

Modern Passive House Goes Net-Zero in West Vancouver @Home on the Coast | 8

When it came time to build a new home for his family, James Dean, a local engineer, not only “wanted to show my community that you can build a beautiful energy-efficient home that doesn’t have to cost that much more than a standard home,” he says. He also wanted a healthy, comfortable, net-zero, modern home. Moreover, he hoped to set a new precedent for passive house projects around the globe.

OFFERING EXPERT INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES & FURNITURE SALES 292 Gower Point Rd - Unit 12 Gibsons, BC www.goosendesign.com

CONSULT MANAGE BUILD

HAND FINISHED CUSTOM LIVE EDGE MAPLE BAR FOR A KITCHEN RENO - PHOTO SWC Committed to Excellence | Expert Consulting High End Construction | Full Service Custom Projects Residential & Commercial

778.458.2223

/SteveWolfeConstruction

stevewolfeconstruction@gmail.com Member of @Home on the Coast | 9

Your local window factory

35

years of making windows in

Powell River BC

Improve your home this year with Modern windows and doors Get your quote today

604.989.0341

jamesf@modern.ca

modern.ca

GRILL | ROAST | SMOKE | BAKE

Indulge

No other outdoor cooker can match the quality and versatility of a Big Green Egg – it truly is The Ultimate Cooking Experience!®

@Home on the Coast | 10

Dean created a 4,000-square-foot Passive House with solar power in West Vancouver.

“We went for PHI certification because it was the most rigorous and is gaining momentum in Canada (through Passive House Canada) and with the BC Government,” he adds. The provincial government has set the formidable goal of making all new homes Net-Zero ready by 2032.

The three-level modern home sits on the southern slope of the mountains in West Vancouver. It is positioned to take full advantage of solar heat gain during the winter through floor-to-ceiling glass. In summer, terraces on each level help block direct sun.

In combination with Passive House principles, the house also has a solar photovoltaic array to achieve Net Zero Energy Certification and Passive House Plus. PHP is the second level, in Passive House Certification and requires that

the home can’t consume more than 45 kWh of renewable primary energy and must generate at least 60 kWh/(m²a) of energy in relation to the building’s footprint.

“Our home is an excellent example of how beautiful design, energy efficiency, comfort, and health can come together using building science, innovative construction methods, and advanced building products,” says Dean.

Joining Passive House and Solar Power The team used cross-laminated timber construction, and assembled the structure onsite in only five days, “which accelerated the project schedule, reduced waste, and resulted in an extremely robust structure,” Dean says.

The super-insulated envelope has six inches of exterior and six inches of interior insulation

over 4.5 solid CLT for walls at R-46, a roof at R-64, and a slab assembly between R-34-60.

On the lower level, the team used foam panel insulation; the upper levels were insulated with mineral wool. The cantilevered concrete deck is thermally broken from the internal concrete slab which reduces energy leaks as it’s airtight and well insulated.

Airtight Construction The home’s airtight building envelope, during a blower test, came in at 0.33 inches ACH 50, significantly below the standard’s minimum requirements. Low-E glazing, German-made, triple-glazed windows, balances reduced solar gain and mechanical cooling in the summer without a too-dark tint that would affect views.

@Home on the Coast | 11

Thermal modelling supplemented the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) modelling results to minimize cooling and ensure no overheating.

Solar shading (via the terraces) reduced heat gain in the summer.

Sliding-glass doors and operable windows provide ventilation and cooling from the ocean breezes on warm days. Three large maple trees were saved during construction to provide shading and privacy. The home’s ERV system allows free cooling in the shoulder seasons and includes fi lters for protection against particulates during the now regular forest fi res. Balanced ventilation with energy recovery ensures no unwanted infi ltration. The home also has a drainwater heat recovery system.

A 12-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system with 35 panels powers the allelectric home. A Tesla Powerwall provides backup power and charges the family’s electric vehicle. A highefficiency wood-burning stove with heat exchangers and dampers provide comfort and heat without using gas or electricity.

How Did Certifications Affect Construction Costs?

Construction costs to meet Passive House and Net-Zero Energy requirements were negligible. It added up to less than 5 percent more than the cost to build a custom home on the Northshore of Vancouver that meets the current BC Building Code. During the fi rst six months that the family occupied the house, electricity costs averaged less than $50 per month (with charging the electric car included).

Over the last year, the panels generated 12,440 kWh of electricity.

@Home on the Coast | 12

Sustainability was top of mind in all aspects of the home. Blasted into the site’s bedrock is the wine cellar, so it’s outside of the passivehouse envelope but has natural cooling and humidification. The garage roof and balcony perimeters are covered with sod, creating a living roof.

IoT Throughout The home utilizes LED lighting.

IoT (Internet of Things) enables door locks, lighting, appliances, the HVAC system, security, and music, and provides real-time energy tracking. Water sensors notify the family of water leaks, so the master valve can be shut quickly to avoid losing water and damaging the home.

In the kitchen, a recirculating range hood with carbon fi lters maintains balanced airflow and doesn’t require make-up air. The kitchen cabinetry was custom-built from white oak and topped with Caesarstone counters. The home has engineered hardwood floors.

Living in a Passive House The benefits of living in a Passive House are many, Dean says. From the lovely quiet - “We can’t even hear the trains passing along nearby tracks” - to fresh fi ltered air that reduces allergies and hay fever. It maintains the perfect temperature and humidity levels year-round. Moreover, he adds, “This home is really fun to live in.”

One reason we built the house to Passive House standards, was to show how you can build a modern architect-designed home that doesn’t cost much more than a custom home and saves resources by being net-zero energy,” he adds.

coast bin rentals Sunshine Coast’s Waste Removal Specialists

• Bins ranging in size from small 2 yard bins to large 50 yard bins and many in between • With 3 different sizes of trucks,we can fit into any spot and handle the largest loads

• No job too big, no job too small • Good for all projects: new construction, renovations, demolition, house and yard renovations, rock and concrete, drywall, roofing or anything else

SHIPPING CONTAINER & PERIMETER FENCE RENTALS AVAILABLE A local, family run disposal bin service, covering the entire Sunshine Coast and Islands.

Call Tyler for a quote today

604-740-2749 • coastbinrentals.ca

@Home on the Coast | 13

Modular Home

Prefab & Modular Home Options What all prefab homes Although there has have in common is: been a great deal of information written • They are constructed in a about prefabricated protected environment homes, there is still • They are faster to build • The components are less some confusion about exposed to the elements the different types of • They generally cost prefab homes. Many less to build people associate prefab • Construction is generally well supervised in with modular homes, the factory but that is just one • They require a shorter type of prefabrication building loan • They do not generate construction. as much waste, and

• The site is less prone to pilferage, which can be costly. @Home on the Coast | 14

Different Types of Prefab Construction There are several different types of prefab. In some cases, two or more methods are used to build a house.

For example, a timber frame system is often constructed with a panelized or structural insulated panel (SIP) system. A modular system can also be built using a prefabricated steel frame and a SIP system.

The most common types of prefabricated houses are: • Modular • Prefabricated timber/ post and beam system.

• Steel frame systems.

Modular Homes

Prefabricated Timber Frame Home Better for the Environment If you’ve ever seen a house under construction on-site you will notice all the debris associated with the project.

There are often one or more dumpsters on the property, which are often filled to the brim. The homeowner pays for the material going into the dumpster, in addition to the tipping fees for unloading it. There is also the matter of all that material that is going to waste. When building with prefab, that waste is vastly reduced. When wood is cut to a particular size in a factory, they save the cut-off for future use. The cut-off s of metal are recycled, as is the drywall. In some cases, when the cut-off s of wood are not needed, they are sometimes put out for residents in the area to use as firewood.

But very little material is wasted.

In addition, there is far less fuel used in delivering materials. When a house is built on-site, deliveries of materials go to just that particular house. When deliveries go to a prefab factory, manufacturers can deliver materials for the building of multiple homes. These materials include items such as windows, wood, insulation, etc.

Common Misconceptions About Prefabs

The earliest prefab homes were kit homes purchased from a catalogue, with the parts delivered by train to

the customer. The components were all cut to order with instructions for putting them together. Often people built their own homes and sometimes had a contractor build the house.

These early houses manufactured in factories, for the most part, were also quite simple. There were things they couldn’t include, such as multilevel roofs.

In the early 2000s, some parts of the homes were site-built because the factories couldn’t do more complex designs. Some people still think about prefab houses as those early simple little boxes. Today, however, prefab manufactures can build almost any type of house using prefab methods.

Since prefab houses require an independent builder to complete the house, the overall quality will depend, in part, on the builder. However, the components themselves are most likely of a higher quality than a sitebuilt home. This is true because the materials are protected before and during construction, so the wood won’t warp or twist later because of wet conditions. There are generally supervisors overseeing all details of the structure in the factory, so there is less chance of error. In addition, many factories now employ computer numerical control machines (CNC) machines which are far more accurate than any tools used on site.

Modular Homes are built in the factory as modules or boxes. Sometimes there is only one module, and at times there are 2 or more. The amount of completion of the module can also vary. Some buyers prefer to have the house finished with flooring, appliances, shelving, and siding; others prefer to buy them unfinished so they can complete some of the work themselves on site.

Modular construction is one of the most complete types of prefab. The modules are delivered to the site on flatbed trucks and if required lifted with a crane onto the preconstructed foundation. A plumber and electrician are needed to connect the water and electricity. A local company that supplies these types of homes and services is EcoFab Modular Homes. ( www.ecofab.ca )

Prefabricated Timber Frame Homes Prefabricated timber frames and post and beam frame houses are now generally precut in a factory. At one time, these were built on-site, but today they are cut in the factory, numbered, and erected on site. Timber frames are self-supporting structures connected with mortise-and-tenon joints. Post-and beam systems are similar except that the connections are more often made with metal or some other type of connection.

A local company that supplies this type of Prefab Home is Emerald Forest Homes. (emeraldforesthomes.ca)

Steel Frame Prefab Homes Steel framing systems are robust and particularly desirable in an earthquake, fire hazard, and marine environments.

At one time, metal construction was mainly confined to commercial buildings.

However, in recent years it is often used in residential construction. Metal systems can include light gauge steel, which can replace wood frame construction, or heavy-gauge red iron components coated with a red oxide that resists rust.

This type of system is used as a post and beam system, which is strong enough to span large distances without support.

Metal is a desirable building material @Home on the Coast | 15

@Home on the Coast | 16

because it is durable, resistant to fire, mould, rot, and insect damage. From an environmental perspective, steel is one of the most recyclable building materials and will also endure for a very long time.

Steel frame base systems can be built utilizing a steel frame that can be ‘cladded’ with long-lasting processed wood, copper or zinc cladding etc.

Structural roof and wall systems can utilize conventional windows or glass curtain walls as a superior alternative.

Wall and roof systems can be designed to specific thermal and fire resistance standards and the system can offer superior performance in terms of an earthquake, fire hazard, and shorefront marine environments. Steel components can also benefit from additional protection via galvanizing or duplex coating systems. A combination of post, beams and truss components can offer design options for larger more open spaces.

A company that supplies these types of homes is Befama Homes. (befamahomes.com)

Steel Frame Prefab Home

@Home on the Coast | 17

NEW

MEMBER

DRIVE

LOCAL SERVICE

Starting October 1, 2021

Our staff are a proven team that excels in providing unparalleled customer service, and expert advice.

Join Blue Ocean for 2022 and receive signing bonuses*:

• • • • •

Up to 15 months for the price of 12 Up to $100 off your membership fee $50 Range Ball Credit $50 Merchandise Certificate “Gift of Golf” complimentary tee time for 4 with carts *Conditions apply. For pricing and further detail, call or visit our website.

Exceptional service Competitive pricing • Quality products Professional delivery & installation service Sunshine Coast Appliance and Mattress Experts … come visit us in our beautiful show room today!

Join us inside or on the patio at the Blue Ocean Bar & Grill

www.sscapplianceandmattress.com

604.885.2700 blueoceangolf.ca

CLICK ON VIRTUAL TOUR

5501 Inlet Ave. Sechelt • 604- 885-5141

PHOTO CREDIT: mollymcphersonphotography.com

We are a locally owned independent dealer. Through our buying group, we have the access to the brands that will fit your space, lifestyle & budget.

SHOP ONLINE

24-7

CURBSIDE PICK-UP AVAILABLE

Open 7 days a week with COVID Policies in place.

Sun - Wed 10am - 4pm • Thurs 10am - 8pm • Fri - Sat 10am - 5pm

5534 Sechelt Inlet Cresent, Sechelt

@Home on the Coast | 18

www.deluxelandscaping.com

604 885 9070

A Sustainable Future:

The Case for EnergyEfficient Homes Putting the pandemic aside—if that is at all possible— the need for energy-efficient homes comes from the fact that climate change is a global crisis in its own right, which demands solutions that are long overdue and require immediate action.

Many innovations are already making our homes more energyefficient and reducing their greenhouse-gas emissions. In B.C., zero-emission homes are being built today, and there are plans to build many more. There are also many solutions to retrofit existing homes to reduce emissions, and these innovations don’t need to be complex, or unduly impact the cost of housing.There are three key elements to consider.

New Construction In 2017, the B.C. government enabled the Energy Step Code (ESC), a new way to implement the B.C. Building Code as it relates to the energy efficiency of buildings.

Here’s how it works: • •

•

Step 0 is the current Building Code standard.

Step 1 retains that standard but requires that an energy model evaluate the efficiency of a building and measure the air tightness.

Steps 2 to 5 gradually ramp up the requirements for building envelope efficiency and air tightness, with the top level representing the equivalent of Passive House or Net Zero Energy Ready Homes.

The government initially allowed municipalities to voluntary adopt the level of the ESC that they deemed most appropriate to their community’s level of high-performance building knowledge, and capacity, but that will change in 2022, when Step 3 will become the base requirement for the Building Code. The plan is to then require Step 4 in 2027, and Step 5 in 2032, the target date for the government’s plan to have all new construction meet the highest level of energy efficiency.

Why is this considered “the easy part”? Because with each new building, you start from a clean site.

The designer and builder are in control of the materials, construction methods, and equipment. Energy modelling and air tightness are simpler, and deficiencies can be corrected with relative ease.

Retrofitting Existing Homes Bridging the gap between energy efficiency and existing housing stock is not as simple, because every existing building has a back story. When was it built? What were the building code requirements at the time? How has it been maintained over the years? What renovations have been done? Because of the endless number of “back stories” in older buildings there is no one-sizefits-all approach to energy retrofits.

In some cases, upgrading windows and improving weatherstripping might significantly reduce air leakage and heat loss. Or upgrading attic insulation.

Or upgrading space heating and hot water systems. Or maybe all of the above. And not everyone has an unlimited budget to accomplish these upgrades. With the high cost of housing, it can be very challenging

@Home on the Coast | 19

for the buyer of an existing home to immediately undertake a series of energy upgrades. Even existing home owners may not know where or how to start.

But, there’s good news on that front.

There is an effort underway to develop an energy efficiency assessment tool that can be applied to existing housing.

The plan is to make this tool costeffective and easy to use, and it will provide an energy rating for existing houses, much like the ESC provides ratings for new houses. Also, the CleanBC program offers rebates for improving a home’s energy efficiency through certain upgrades.

The Big Picture A third element of sustainability in housing involves adopting a community-wide lens, rather than focusing only on the building.

When you look at any city in the province, the vast majority of the land zoned for residential purposes is intended for single-family homes. There are notable exceptions—the City of Vancouver now allows three or four dwelling units on almost all of its low-density residentially zoned lots (“the RS zone”)—but most municipalities effectively prohibit a diversity of housing types in their singlefamily areas.

However, we can dramatically improve the sustainability of housing by adopting “gentle densification” of these single-family zones. By blanket-rezoning these areas to allow duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, with secondary suites, and/or laneway/coach homes, we can more efficiently use this valuable land resource.

The provincial government has projected a population increase of almost 1.4 million people between 2020 and 2041. Where will they all live? Many don’t want to live in high-rise towers, and with climate change and sustainability in mind, we can’t keep paving over farmland and forests to build new subdivisions.

@Home on the Coast | 20

By re-imagining low density neighbourhoods, we can provide more and better housing choices for young families, downsizing empty nesters, multigenerational families, and young renters. Revitalizing these neighbourhoods will increase school enrollment and could reverse the trend of school closures. Bringing more households into a neighbourhood generates more customers for local retailers and services, and provides more support to existing infrastructure like transit, community centres, and libraries.

Creating more housing choices closer to existing services and employment centres means people can make do with fewer and shorter commutes, further reducing their carbon footprint. Multi-unit housing like fourplexes means fewer exterior walls for heat loss, resulting in higher energy efficiency. Replacing an old single-family home with a new fourplex means the new housing will be built to the current ESC standard, ensuring dramatic improvement in energy performance.

Bringing a sustainable future to reality requires collaboration among government, the private sector, professionals and property owners.

HARBOUR CUSTOM WORKS CNC Routering & Design Doors Ta b l e s S l a b Wo r k S t a i rc a s e s Mantles 3D Carving Cabinets Signs Moulds Te x t u r i n g

harbourcustomworks.ca | 6 0 4 . 3 5 4 . 0 6 9 5

Quality Construction Materials for the SUNSHINE Coast

READY-MIX STOCKWELL GROUP OF COMPANIES

www.centralcoastconcrete.ca @Home on the Coast | 21

Architectural rendering of new building.

Prime Rentals Serving The Sunshine Coast 7 Days A Week

Cars & Passenger Vans Pick Up Trucks & Cargo Vans Cube Trucks • Boxes & Packing Supplies Storage Locker Rentals

The need: Affordable Housing.

The solution? Building Together.

You can help Sunshine Coast Community Services build affordable housing for women and children and a new hub for programs and services for the whole community.

Because your community matters.

Donate today and make a difference. buildingtogether-sccss.ca

Building Together An initiative of Sunshine Coast Community Services

5533 Sechelt Inlet Crescent, Sechelt (just off Porpoise Bay Rd.) 604-885-6422 • 1-800-663-5534 reservations@primerentals.ca

www.primerentals.ca

New Gutters, Gutter Repairs Re-sloping, Gutter Cleaning, Complete Home Exterior Cleaning Company 5 & 10 Year Warranty on All Labour

(604) 989 - 0882 @Home on the Coast | 22

Local Resort Owners Embrace Modular

Y

ou may recall reading in our November 2020 issue a story of the Pender Harbour Resort and Marina in Garden Bay. The owners, Jeff and Linda Peifer decided to replace three of the ageing cabins at the resort and upgrade to something that would be more aesthetically attractive and energy-efficient. The existing units were deassembled and all usable salvaged materials were donated to the Habitat for Humanity Restore in Sechelt.

The upgrade solution is now completed in the form of three beautiful new family-size (24 ft. X 40 ft.) modular cabins provided by EcoFab Modular Homes, a local company based in Gibsons. Other local contractors involved in the project were Susan & Nicole Hildebrand of Construction SpeciFix, Sunpro Enterprises, West Coast Gutters, and Dakota Heavy Duty.

For more information on affordable eco-friendly modular homes visit www.Ecofab.ca

@Home on the Coast | 23

How to Reduce Energy Usage in Your Home

Finding ways to cut back on energy usage is an essential step towards sustainability in our homes. The problem is that many people don’t know where to start.

While making the change to a home powered by 100% renewable energy requires a significant upfront investment, there are inexpensive upgrades you can do to increase energy efficiency. These upgrades will be necessary even if you do decide to incorporate renewable power generation, like solar panels, in the future. Improvements don’t always have to cost much but they can show up as noticeable savings on your utility bills.

Here a few inexpensive but effective ideas that can go a long way in saving energy, money, and the environment.

Get an Energy Audit You can’t save on energy unless you know how you’re using it. You can arrange for a professional to do an energy audit of your home’s power use. @Home on the Coast | 24

This audit will help you zero in on exactly where the leaks are. Alternatively, many home energy monitoring systems are available too. After paying attention to how your home uses energy for a couple of months, you should have a better idea of where your upgrades can make the most impact.

Do the Weather Stripping That chilly draft that you feel in your home all winter long is pretty annoying and also leads to substantial heat loss in your home. Fixing leaks or drafts in your home, usually around doors and window fixtures can save upwards of 35% of the heating or cooling loss that occurs in your home.

Insulate Your Attic Uninsulated parts of your wall won’t cause the same amount of heat loss as a patch of your attic that is left uninsulated. Since hot air rises, you will want to make sure that your attic is well insulated. If you want a greener insulation option, you can choose a natural insulation option like sheep’s wool or hemp insulation. Or recycled options like cellulose or cotton batt insulation.

Insulate the Ductwork The ductwork that goes through your basement and attic leaks significant amounts of cold or hot air into the crawlspaces where it doesn’t belong.

Insulating your ductwork is a simple way to save energy.

Install Insulating Window Shades If installing new windows is unrealistic, installing insulating window shades on your windows is a great way to protect your home from drafts and heatwaves.

This step will give you more control over how windows affect the temperature in your home.

Efficient Light Fixtures The average Canadian home has an average of 40 lights throughout the house. LED light bulbs and integrated LED light fixtures will result in substantial savings while using up to 80% less energy.

Programmable and Smart Thermostats A thermostat is an essential part of any heating and cooling unit. Programmable thermostats are unique in that they offer more control and can save you a substantial amount of energy and money.

Compare this with regular thermostats, which often leave your home warmer or cooler than what you intended. If you want to splurge on a Smart Thermostat, they will run you about $250 to $350 but the added features and savings are undoubtedly worth it in the long term.

Ceiling Fans Ceiling fans might not seem like a new technology since they have been around for decades, however, ceiling fans help maximize airflow through the house and thus limit the amount of

work your furnace or air conditioner does daily. Ceiling fans can be found at virtually any home improvement store.

Be sure to look for an ENERGY STARrated Ceiling Fan.

Energy Efficient Doors Most of the doors in modern-day homes have no insulation, meaning significant heat is lost through these spaces. Today, you can find many steel and wood doors built with a foam insulation core, which will help keep the heat in your home as long as your kids don’t forget to shut it. Your choices are wide-ranging - you can opt for an ENERGY STAR certified door or go all the way with a superinsulated Passive House door.

ENERGY STAR Appliances Purchasing a new refrigerator, washer, and dryer in one go will end up being a sizeable investment for anyone. When it does come time to replace one of your household appliances, however, opting for an ENERGY STAR certified appliance would save you significant amounts of energy. You can expect to save more than $100 per year for each large appliance you replace in your home with an ENERGY STAR-certified model.

Incorporate Biophilic Design If you have wanted to bring more natural light into your home, consider opening up large windows in the south-facing wall of your home. This passive solar design approach will allow you to cut back on your heating bills by taking advantage of the natural warmth (and light) offered by the sun. Triple pane and passive house windows generally add 10-15% to the cost but will increase efficiency and sound insulation.

organic waste, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gasses. When mixed in with regular garbage, organic wastes create leachates that release potent methane gasses in the landfills. By simply making your own compost pile for your organic waste, you can cut back on methane emissions, use less space in our landfills, and get a free supply of fertile topsoil for your garden. What’s best is that you don’t need any money to start a simple compost pile behind your home!

Save Water Affordably at Home There are many low-flow faucets and showerheads available on the market today for both baths and kitchens. Any lowflow device will save you around 50% of the water that your home consumes.

You can expect to remake the money you invest in these fixtures quickly.

ENERGY STAR states that you can expect savings on your water bill upwards of $60 to $100 per year. An inexpensive low-flow showerhead starts at just $20, while low-flow sink faucets can cost as little as $15.

Reduce Runoff The water that runs off your roof, through your yard and driveway, and eventually into the storm sewer collects many potentially dangerous contaminants.

From vehicle oil spills to nitrates from the fertilizer in your garden bed. To stop this contamination of our water supply, you can easily create a rain garden. You can do this by digging small basins or shallow depressions in your yard and heavily mulching these basins. This process is a great way to allow nature to purify (and utilize) the water that runs through your property.

Reduce Food Waste Here on the coast, we are facing problems related to a lack of space for waste disposal. Poor waste management, especially not separating “wet” organic waste from “dry” plastics and other non@Home on the Coast | 25

A Global Architect with West Coast Ties Vlad Vit is a highly experienced architect, designer, and project manager who offers unconventional and innovative designs tempered with a solid technical discipline. He excels at the art and science of architecture.

Vlad holds a Masters of Science in Architecture and Town Planning from the Czech Technical University in Prague.

This six-year intensive program gave him a solid background in architecture and interior design, as well as structural and civil engineering, urban design and building economics. As a result, the design solutions he provides are both original and technically sound.

Along with his wife Vlasta, the couple emigrated to Canada in 1968 and soon began a successful architectural consultant practice with a focus on residential and recreational design which spanned the globe from Canada and the U.S. to the Caribbean and Europe.

Vlad’s skill in urban design can be seen in several projects worldwide including a master plan for a high-end resort in Barbados, a health spa resort community in the Czech Republic, and a residential development in the UAE. Closer to home, he recently completed the spectacular and highly publicized ‘Creek House’ luxury private residence in West Vancouver.

VLAD VIT

ARCHITECT

MASTER BUILDER

Home...

a place to work and play and connect with Nature.

A place that supports your health and safety so you may relax into the best part of your life.

More recently, his work leans towards creating vibrant living spaces with a focus on the health and well-being of his clients who may be in a transitional state of retirement and where the emphasis is on creating a place that will nurture one’s sense of physical, mental, and emotional well being in a healing and inspirational environment.

Vlad and his wife Vlasta look forward to working and eventually retiring here on the Sunshine Coast.

After all... you only live twice...

Vlad Vit M.Sc. Arch., MAIBC | 604-488-9289 | vlad@vladvit.com | www.vladvit.com

We are the Sunshine Coast’s #1 Source for

DOORS & WINDOWS

Homes Under Construction or Renovation • • • • •

JELD WEN

•

WINDOWS & DOORS

•

100’S IN STOCK • ALL SIZES & STYLES • GREAT PRICES CASH & CARRY or WE INSTALL! • FREE ESTIMATES

ALSO CUSTOM DOORS, WINDOWS & GLASS!

Visit Our Warehouse Showroom with Your Measurements!

SUNco BUILDING MATERIALS LTD.

604-885-8889 Toll Free: 1-877-299-9492 1945 Field Rd. Wilson Creek

VISIT OUR WEBSITE! WWW.SUNCOBUILDING.COM

@Home on the Coast | 26

• • •

Completed Homes, Owner or Tenant Occupied Vacation Rentals Property in Storage, Short or Long Term AutoPlan , Private Auto, Collector & Recreational Veh icles Business & Commercial Insurance Pleasure & Commercial Marine Events & Specialty Lines Discounts & Payment Plans Tiny Homes – Stationary or Transit

Sunshine COAST

CLASSIC CARS

The Coasters Car Club was formed in the Spring of 1996 after a number of small groups had got together for car cruises and Show and Shines on the Sunshine Coast.

The purpose of the club is to promote the preservation of the vintage, street rod, hot rod, custom and specialty automobiles. The club encourages safety in the rebuilding and restoration of the vehicles and to display their autos and hobby for the pleasure of those interested.

The club is a non-profit society, which donates money or services to various charities on the Sunshine Coast such as; the Food Bank, Volunteer Fire Departments, Children’s Hospital, St. Mary´s Hospital Foundation and the Salvation Army.

@Home on the Coast | 27

Sunshine Coast Sales statistics for July 2021

by Russ Qureshi

July was an interesting month for Sunshine Coast real estate sales. We are seeing differing results depending on market segment (detached, condos, land only). This slightly reduced demand can be attributed to the summer months and most buyers deferring their purchase decision to August or September. Let’s see how it breaks out across the three residential property types: Fully Detached Sales are down in dollar volume by 6% to $80,300,000 and unit sales are down 23% to 77 units sold in July. These figures are up by 20% over last month however showing that the recent pause in activity in the detached market was short lived. The sales success ratio, the amount of sales versus the available inventory, for July was 42% keeping the market in seller’s hands. Year to

date we are still way ahead of last years totals. Dollar volume for 2021 is up 111% to $531,200,000. Unit sales are up 60% to 522 homes sold so far this year. The average price for a home on the Sunshine Coast remains relatively unchanged over the last three months at $1,020,000.

Town Home and Condo Sales are up, ever so slightly at 3.5%, in dollar volume to $8,350,000 and unit sales are down 29% to 12 units sold last month. This continues a downward trend from last month. July’s figures are down 16.5% in dollar volume and 33% in unit sales from June’s results. The sales success ratio, the amount of sales versus the available inventory, for July was 18% making the detached market a balanced one going into August. Year to date we are still way ahead in dollar volume by 284% to $92,305,000 and unit sales by 246% to 165 units sold so far this year. The average price for a condo or town home on the Sunshine Coast is now $560,000.

Land only sales are up 33% in dollar volume to $8,575,000 and down 44% in unit sales to 14 lots sold. Compared to last month it’s a mixed bag. We are up in dollar volume by 24% and down in unit sales by 12.5%. The results are skewed by a 61 hectare sale of Ruby Lake (partial waterfront) for just over $3,000,000. The sales success ratio, the amount of sales versus the available inventory, for July was 11.5% making this segment of the market a buyers’ one. Year to date sees us ahead by 320% in dollar volume to $82,950,000 and unit sales by 153% to 165 unit sold in 2021 so far. The average price for land only is $503,000.

The Sunshine Coast continues to see record prices and sales volume across all segments of the market. I have a sense this should ramp up even more over the next 60 days. With housing supply so low and demand continuing to be significant can the market do anything but rise?

1576 Islandview Drive - Gibsons

1970 Lower Road - Roberts Creek

SO

SO

2 bedroom / 3 full bathroom + den home on 1/4 acre with a fenced backyard detached double garage self contained studio suite More at www.gibsonrancher.ca Asking $919,000

Westcoast contemporary built in 2004 Over 2 acres of property 1000+ sqft unfinished basement Roundabout driveway Asking $1,499,000

Large family home with a suite Lovely views Tons of fresh upgrades Fantastic gardens Asking $1,229,000 More at www.gibsonsviewhome.com

416 S Fletcher Road

LD SO

LD SO 2 bedroom / 1 bathroom / 630 sqft shop with 220v RV parking • great lot!

Asking $529,000 www.pendercottage.ca

Lot E Byng Road - Roberts Creek

9.7 acres CR2 zoned easy access build a home and/or subdivide good view from the top Asking $699,000 www.robertscreekacreage.ca

office 604-886-2670 Twitter: @CoastalHomesBC Facebook: Coast Lifestyles Network 101 - 938 Gibsons Way, Gibsons BC V0N 1V9

@Home on the Coast | 28

LD

LD

12392 Jesse Road - Pender Harbour

Russ Qureshi

SCCSA Update submitted by the SCCSA The Sunshine Coast Community Solar Association’s intern Khalid Kurshed under director Gerry Pageau’s mentorship completed many major reports along with several smaller reports, for comprehensive energy audits of the SCRD buildings. The final report is a summary with detailed appendices; including carbon footprint data and priorities for upgrades ready to fit in with SCRD budget requirements. The SCCSA hosted a ‘bon voyage’ BBQ for intern Khalid who is returning to University of Victoria to complete his Electrical Engineering degree.

Khalid says, “Working with the SCCSA has been a great experience in learning and developing skills related to energy conservation. I’m hopeful that if the energy conservation measures and solar designs I proposed throughout my term are implemented, the SCRD buildings could become excellent models of energy efficiency.”

The association presented some Coast-themed gifts to Khalid as a token of appreciation of the excellent and important work he did.

The Solar Association is happy to announce that an array of 44 solar pv panels (420 watts each for a total of 18.5 Kw) on the Sechelt SPCA roof is now saving that non-profit organization money.

Cody Kelso and mom Megan spear-headed the

The Sunshine Coast Needs a Highway

T

he vision to achieve a true Sunshine Coast Highway has been on many drawing boards for almost 40 years. In 2018, thanks to a group of hard working volunteers a campaign to collect signatures on a petition resulted in the 6400 signature document being presented in the BC Legislature on March 28th 2019.

The Sunshine Coast Highway Society has since continued its mission “To achieve construction of a new, state of the art, spectacular scenic highway from Langdale through Sechelt that meets the needs of residents, visitors, businesses, transit and first responders, now and in the years to come”Sadly, the number of serious

fund-raising effort with their amazing walk from Gibsons to Powell River. The SCCSA thanks the Sunshine Cost Credit Union for their donation to the project and everyone who donated. Thanks also to Gibsons Recycling for the donation of a level 2 EV charger, installed by the Sunshine Coast Electric Vehicle Association (SCEVA).

Megan Kelso, with technical assistance from Gerry Pageau and Khalid Kurshed, applied for and received a generous grant Cody and Megan Kelso receive cheque on behalf of SCCSA from Sechelt Community Forest from the District of Sechelt’s to improve energy efficiency for the Sechelt SPCA Sunshine Coast Community Forest to replace the aging on the support of its membership. Did you know boilers with a heat pump system that along you can take out a $20 membership anytime with solar thermal will mean that the Sechelt after September 1st which covers you for the SPCA are well on their way to being a net zero following year? Please consider becoming a operation. They will virtually eliminate their member by going to https://suncoastcommsolar.

GHG emissions by replacing the natural gas hot weebly.com and following the membership link. water heater and space heating systems with We have interesting and important projects on integrated solar and heat pump technology. the go – if you are interested in joining the SCCSA board, please email us at: As a volunteer group, the Solar Association relies suncoastcsa@gmail.com accidents including fatalities is a stark reminder of the need for a proper safe route for everyone.

Facing the very real uncertainties of climate change and the effects upon our environment the need fora true highway to replace the existing “Goat Trail” becomes even more vital. As we face the ever increasing danger of wildfires and other emergencies the need for a reliable new evacuation route on the coast must be considered especially in the light of the existing Chapman Creek crossing. This 1958 bridge is the only road link between either side of the creek. Emergency services need safe, reliable access to all areas of the coast. A state of the art new highway adjacent to the existing power lines would also create a valuable fire break.

Rising sea levels make it imperative to have a highway at a higher elevation to avoid the flooding conditions that

often exist in Davis Bay where the existing road runs along the low lying Parkway. Animal corridors under a new highway would create safe conditions and provide the needed wildlifeescape routes in any emergency.

The Sunshine Coast Highway Society is dedicated to working with governments and local interested parties to achieve these goals.

With the substantial increase in commercial, visitor and residential traffic the need for a new highway has never been more imperative. Now is the time for action by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. The Sunshine Coast deserves their attention.

The Society needs your support. See more information at www.sunshinecoasthighway.ca and show your interest by emailing to info@sunshinecoasthighway,.ca

@Home on the Coast | 29

A Framework for Community-Level Wildfire Preparedness

Fire has long been an integral part of our terrestrial ecosystem. Some indigenous peoples refer to fire as ‘medicine’ and have managed the damage with fire. By the time Europeans arrived many regions of North America were fire-dependent ecosystems that experienced frequent but low-intensity fires. The forest and vegetation composition consisted primarily of species that flourished with fire. Since the 1900s, fire suppression has become a significant focus of both the US and Canadian governments.

Fire suppression efforts have largely failed over the past century. They have even increased our wildfire risk due to the dangerous levels of vegetative fuel buildup in ecosystems that historically burned regularly. Efficiency at fire suppression has allowed vegetation species that do not have an inherent resistance to fire to dominate. Combine this with climate change, and increasingly complex wildland-urban interface, and a booming population, and we are now faced with a massive challenge on our hands.

In many areas today, wildfires aren’t a matter of if but of when. If you live on the wildlandurban interface, you must educate yourself on wildfire risk and take a few precautionary measures around infrastructure. Don’t wait around and expect firefighters to save you and your structure if a wildfire hits. Take ownership and action to protect yourself and @Home on the Coast | 30

your family. It’s our responsibility to prepare for wildfires and adapt to them.

Canadian Firewise Program FireSmart Canada offers a unique selfconducted home assessment app to help homeowners mitigate their fire risks. This program is an excellent option for Canadians looking for straightforward guidance on reducing wildfire risk on their own. This program seems to be less of a communitylevel approach and is most pertinent to individual homeowners.

Home Products That Can Mitigate the Risks of Wildfires When large wildfires burn they can release a lot of pollutants into the air. Smoke can slowly creep into buildings, and air quality can suffer. Air purifiers can filter down to 0.3 microns.

Choosing flame-resistant home products is essential to lowering fire risk. Sheep’s wool is a renewable product that offers a high degree of flame resistance.

On the insulation front, wool insulation products offer a high degree of flame resistance. These products all have inherent fire resistance without adding toxic flame retardants, like foam insulation and polyurethane cushioning for mattresses do.

Unlike foams, these materials will not release toxic fumes if they do burn.

When wildfires are in your area, you might lose electrical power for an extended period of days to even weeks. Solar energy systems can supply an off-grid backup electrical system.

Fire is a natural component and essential element of many ecosystems globally. In systems where fires are suppressed, wildfire threat can increase over the long term by increasing combustible fuel loads, forest floor depth and altering forest species composition by allowing species that are not resilient to fire to become dominant.

Climate change increases fire intensity and lengthens fire seasons. Immediate steps we can take to reduce wildfire risk on the wildland-urban interface are hiring professionals to utilize prescribed burns under controlled conditions, deploying sustainable forest management techniques, and taking measures to minimize ignition risk in and around our built environments with guidance from resources like FireSmart Canada.

@Home on the Coast | 31

OLSON ELECTRIC

LTD Alternative Power Systems

SAVE MONEY. SAVE THE PLANET.

GO SOLAR

GoSolarBC.ca FOR POWER ON OR OFF GRID TALK TO US. WE’RE THE EXPERTS! FROM PLUGS IN WALLS

EMERGENCY & OFF GRID GENERATORS

SOLAR POWER FOR HOME & VEHICLE PLAN NOW FOR SPRING & SUMMER!

to Shopping Malls!

Seamless Back-up Power

* Must have good sun exposure

kohlerpower.com

ASK US ABOUT

LEVEL 2 EV CHARGERS!

Call Today For More Information or an On-Site Evaluation 604-885-0599 • OlsonElectric.ca SHINE COAST SUN

Lt d.

OLSON ELECTRIC

Fire Protection v Di

THE OLSON GROUP OF COMPANIES

LTD

is ion ic of Olson Electr

Alternative Power Systems

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • RENOVATIONS • GENERATORS • FIRE PROTECTION