Building Excellence - Summer 2022

T H E O F F I C I A L M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C A N A D I A N H O M E B U I L D E R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

SUMMER 2022

Outdoor Living

Marble Construct Vancouver

ion Ltd.

2 0 22

CHBA

Award

Winners pg . 19

Decks, Docks,

Outbuildings

& Exterior Accessories

BUILD SAFE, COMFORTABLE AND HEALTHY LIVING SPACES. What is Radon? The Silent Killer.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is odourless, colourless, and tasteless. It is produced by the breakdown of uranium found in sediment (soil), rocks, and water. When radon is released into the atmosphere it gets diluted and poses negligible risk to human health. However, if radon accumulates in an enclosed space, such as a home, it can concentrate and pose a serious health risk.

Introducing Owens Corning FOAMULAR RadonBARRIER™ Radon Abatement System ®

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8,) 4-2/ 4%28,)6Ʀ k Ɓ 1IXVS +SPH[]R 1E]IV 7XYHMSW -RG %PP 6MKLXW 6IWIVZIH 8LI GSPSYV 4-2/ MW E VIKMWXIVIH XVEHIQEVO SJ 3[IRW 'SVRMRK k 3[IRW 'SVRMRK %PP 6MKLXW 6IWIVZIH 1 3RP] ''1' GIVXMƼIH 6EHSR %FEXIQIRX 7]WXIQ WSPYXMSR [MXL <47 ''1' 6ITSVX 6 2 Compared to Radon exposure. 326'%2 6EHSR %FEXIQIRX 8IWX 6ITSVX 2S % 3GXSFIV Owens Corning *3%190%6 ® CodeBord® [MXL XETIH SV WIEPIH NSMRXW MW < KVIEXIV XLER QMP TSP]IXL]PIRI as a radon barrier material. 4Elimination of poly. 5&YMPHIV *MIPH 8IWX 5YIFIG 6*3%190%6® ' GER EPWS FI YWIH

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SUMMER 2022 ¨gZ̢͕ H ' ̟

T H E O F F I C I A L M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C A N A D I A N H O M E B U I L D E R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

SUMMER 2022

Outdoor Living

Marble Construction Vancouver

̞̥

BE Your Best ̣

P RESIDENT’S LETTER Larry Clay

Ltd.

̤

C EO’S LETTER Kevin Lee

̞̝

BUILDER PROFILE 3rd Generation Homes, Kelowna, BC

By Natasha Rombough, Director, Marketing and Communications, CHBA

2022

CHBA

Award

Winners pg.

19

Decks, Docks,

Outbuildings

̡̞

& Exterior Accessories

BY THE NUMBERS Builder sentiment rising

By Viktoria Halim, Director, Economic and Urban Affairs, CHBA

MARBLE CONSTRUCTION LTD. VANCOUVER PHOTO: INFRAME REAL ESTATE FILMS

̞̥

RENOVATOR’S CORNER Raising the ceiling

By Dina McNeil, Program Director, Renovation Services, CHBA

Features ̞̦

C HBA AWARDS And the winners are… Introducing the winners of the 2022 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence

̟̥ C HBA LEADERSHIP AWARDS Recognizing the leaders within CHBA

̠̝

̠̝ O UTDOOR LIVING All the outbuildings, accessories and activities your clients crave

Insider Info

̠̥ F EDERAL BUDGET 2022 Relief on the way for Canadian construction sector, but challenges remain

̡̝ P RODUCT SHOWCASE New and Noteworthy

̡̟ T HE GIVING BACK PAGE Community Spirit

̞̝

̞̦

¨gZ ` ' ̢̝͖ a ` ' ̟ CEO Kevin Lee

SUMMER 2022

DIRECTOR, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS Natasha Rombough

SENIOR CLIENT RELATIONS SPECIALIST, GTA Sonia Presotto

EDITOR Wayne Karl wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE Marilyn Watling

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Jacky Hill jacky.hill@nexthome.ca

SALES & MARKETING COORDINATORS Gary Chilvers, Vi Nguyen

EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANT Michael Rosset

HOME SHOW MANAGER & NEWSPAPER CIRCULATION, GTA Josh Rosset

NEXTHOME EDITORS Wayne Karl, Rise Levy

DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca

SENIOR VP, SALES NEXTHOME Hope McLarnon 416.708.7987 hope.mclarnon@nexthome.ca

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF SALES, ONTARIO, NEXTHOME Natalie Chin 416.881.4288, natalie.chin@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA Lauren Reid–Sachs VP PRODUCTION, GTA Lisa Kelly PRODUCTION MANAGER, GTA Yvonne Poon

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT Amanda Bell 416.830.2911, amanda.bell@nexthome.ca

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER Alicesa Pullan GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hannah Yarkony

VP MARKETING, GTA Leanne Speers

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jean Fay Rodriguez, Mike Terentiev

COMMUNICATIONS AND SOCIAL MEDIA OFFICER Emily Fielden

Published 4 times a year by NextHome, on behalf of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Building Excellence, NextHome, and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) are not responsible for any claims or promises in any advertisement, nor for any unsolicited material sent to the magazine. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement # 40065416 Published by nexthome.ca

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O F F I C I A L M E D I A PA R T N E R S : Y

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

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P R E S I D E N T ’S m e s s a g e

CHBA NATIONAL COMMITTEES AND COUNCILS ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES, AND SHARING SOLUTIONS, TOGETHER

BY LARRY CLAY, CHBA PRESIDENT

his May, the CHBA National Committees and Councils met in Ottawa to advance the business of the association. After two years of meeting virtually, it was the first set of national gatherings that have been in person since my time as CHBA President, and I can’t express how great it was to see people again. The collaborative energy in the rooms was palpable Our industry faces many issues from coast to coast. Almost all of them are shared across the country, though with specific regional aspects. CHBA’s National Committees and Councils bring members together to address these challenges and share ideas and solutions from one region to another, and for the entire country.

Almost 300 volunteer members from across the country tackle the work of CHBA’s Standing Committees and Councils. In addition, more than 30 federal and provincial government departments and agencies, non-profit organizations, private research firms, warranty programs and others lend their expertise on issues affecting the residential construction industry. Committee and Council Chairs also report to CHBA’s

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Board of Directors, helping to guide our association’s policies and actions.

At the Urban Council meeting, the challenges of Inclusionary Zoning were tackled, and the draft primer for IZ that CHBA has developed for local associations to engage municipalities on IZ was reviewed before publication. Members of the Canadian Renovators’ Council advanced work on RenoMark, addressed renovation-related technical issues and contributed to plans for the new five-year initiative towards cost-effective net zero energy ready residential renovations. The Adaptiv Home Council is focused on renovating for aging in place as well as persons with disabilities, and in addition to advancing the new Adaptive Home Renovation Course spent a good deal of time preparing important feedback on new proposed standard for accessible private homes.

Members of the Modular Construction Council considered the cost advantages of solar in prefabricated multi-unit residential buildings, thanks to information coming out of the CHBA Net Zero MURBs Initiative, as well as modular/offsite research done being by the University of Calgary and its implications for the industry. The Net Zero Council addressed the implementation of new indoor air quality requirements for the Net Zero Home Labelling Program, had important dialogue to advance various ongoing initiatives and a new initiative: a Net Zero Neighbourhoods Pilot, which will include Part 3 and mixed-use buildings.

The Technical Research Committee’s ambitious agenda covered a variety of topics, including an update on Part 9 of the 2020

Building Codes, single egress for multi-unit residential buildings, fenestration standards, ICF, radon, climate resilience, reports from the Canadian Association of Consulting Energy Advisors and the Canadian Home Warranty Council, and an update on CHBA’s support of the expansion of Local Energy Efficiency Partnership (LEEP). The Executive Officers’ Council addressed the fiscal challenges that inflation is having on the management of HBAs, as well as the changing trends in event attendance and non-dues revenues.

At the Board of Directors meeting and Annual Meeting of Members, the new Board of Directors was ushered in, which officially ended my term as President. I’d like to personally thank all the members who have volunteered their time on the Board, and those who are committing to it for the future. It is a substantial commitment, but one that provides returns well beyond the time commitment – I’ve found it to be very fulfilling and productive.

It was also a pleasure to present in person the recipients of the 2022 Association Leadership Awards (more on that on page 28). These individuals and HBAs are strengthening the association and their communities, and it was an honour to recognize them.

Being involved in committees and councils starts at your local/provincial level. If you enjoy the work, you may find yourself representing your region at the national level one day. And if you’re not engaged in this important work, please consider it, and in the meantime make sure you give a hearty thanks to your fellow members who are the next time you see them – they’re working hard for your business’s best interests.

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

C EO ’S m e s s a g e

BUDGETING FOR GROWTH

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES ADDRESSING SUPPLY ISSUE

BY KEVIN LEE, CHBA CEO

he federal government released its 2022 budget in April and, with its emphasis on housing affordability, it was dubbed “the housing budget” by many in the media. The moniker is a testament to just how prominent residential construction industry issues were in the 304-page document – a reflection of the advocacy efforts of the association over many years.

We can now say that the federal government, thanks to persistent and consistent messaging from CHBA to MPs, government officials and policy-makers, is now aligned on key housing affordability issues, and most especially supply; this is resulting in very significant policy change and program support for the industry and market-rate housing. The

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message – that there is a dramatic housing supply shortage in Canada that is impacting affordability – was formally acknowledged in the budget, along with the need to expedite building more new homes. Taking a true leadership position as CHBA has called for, the government provided a specific estimate of the shortfall of housing units, stating Canada will need to build at least 3.5 million new homes by 2031, and double our housing starts to do so.

This target, a true win for the association, is significant. Though the supply and demand nature of the housing market, and its impact on home prices seems obvious, it was truly a challenge to change the conversation at the federal level, and all levels across Canada. And while these statistics and the measures announced to support getting there are only part of the solution, establishing and quantifying this shortfall will now put the lens on all levels of government (and very importantly, municipalities) to put in place more policy to get there.

One of the biggest hurdles is getting municipalities onboard with facilitating more supply. The federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) is meant to incent and support municipalities to get more market-rate housing online faster. CHBA has been engaging on the design of this very important and innovative fund. If designed well, the Fund has the potential to help address supply

issues. CHBA supports the apparent plan for CMHC to issue the funds on a performance-based basis, which will help ensure the funds truly result in more housing starts.

Labour shortages will also make doubling the current rate of construction challenging when finding skilled trades is already difficult, but by setting the target, policy must follow to support it – and this is starting. According to BuildForce Canada, approximately 22 per cent of the labour force is set to retire in the coming decade. CMHC has been advocating that in addition to promoting careers in skilled trades, supporting training, and providing financial supports to companies and individuals with respect to skilled workers, improving the immigration system for skilled workers will be key. Canada needs to respond better and more quickly to labour shortages in residential construction through permanent immigration solutions. And the budget and other recent federal announcements show the government is headed in that direction.

As we head into the summer, CHBA will look to work with all levels of the association to shift its efforts to reaching municipal decision makers – and their constituents, who they answer to – to help them understand the link between housing supply shortages and high home prices, and the effect it’s having on communities across the country; and that the solution is unquestionably more housing supply.

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SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC PROVIDING PROTECTED AND CONNECTED RESIDENTIAL ECOSYSTEMS – ONE PRODUCT AT A TIME SE.COM/CA/HOMEBUILDERS

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oday, sustainability is not just something we discuss at forums and events, but a reality of our everyday life that is important and essential. Take homes, for example; homes are expected to become the single largest consumers of electricity and the biggest contributor of carbon dioxide emissions.

Today, homes have so much technology built into them.

As a company, Schneider Electric focuses its efforts to provide a 100-per-cent protected and connected residential ecosystem using both the grid and distributed energy resources such as solar and battery. With more than 180 years of innovation in energy management and automation solutions, Schneider Electric constantly endeavors to help builders overcome daily challenges by meeting their needs through strong collaboration.

Today, you know Square D circuit breakers and panels but in order to measure, control and protect this ecosystem, we need to have insight all the way to the plug and that’s why our connected home solutions are a great fit.

This is what we call the first step in the Grid to Plug solution. We are pleased to introduce our smart and sustainable home solutions. One of

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SUMMER 2022

“ Schneider Electric is paving the way to a proactive approach and showing leadership towards a smart and sustainable home” our solutions called Wise Energy, an AI-powered monitor, deciphers the electrical signature of each load in the house and feeds data to the homeowner via the Wiser Energy app providing a detailed energy report, capability for setting goals, budgets, alarms and more. Studies have also shown that homeowners provided with energy data do make changes to reduce consumption.

To further help homeowners personalize their home settings, Schneider Electric has introduced a line of connected wiring devices that operate in an app called Wiser Home, allowing a unique experience for each user. This gives homeowners peace of mind, enables them to manage their energy usage, is convenient, and gives their home a modern look.

These wiring devices are available in two aesthetics: X and XD series. The XD Series

consists of a range of modern, sophisticated cover plates that mount easily on X Series switches and receptacles. The cover plates simply snap onto the X Series device, allowing homeowners to easily and safely update their look and colour, without changing the device or exposing the wiring.

The wiring devices are available in multiple matte finish colour options to achieve a refined, minimalist elegance throughout any home. This provides flexibility to adapt to any interior decor without the need to access the wiring, while the connectivity features provide personalization and comfort and help save energy.

Schneider Electric is paving the way to a proactive approach and showing leadership towards a smart and sustainable home, something that is no longer a nice-to-have but a must-have for every homeowner.

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

Photos: Jon Adrian

B U I L D E R p ro f i l e

3RD GENERATION HOMES KELOWNA, BC-BASED CUSTOM BUILDER EXTENDS PASSION FOR PLEASING CLIENTS TO DEDICATION TO SERVING THE INDUSTRY

BY NATASHA ROMBOUGH, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS, CHBA

assidy deVeer is CEO of 3rd Generation Homes in Kelowna, BC, which she started in 2010. While both her and her partner’s parents and grandparents had been builders, deVeer started her company from the ground up. “We were very young when we started the company and wanted to have a name that had some age to it,” she explains. With family being important to them and building in their blood, the name remains a great fit.

Home construction is a comfortable environment for deVeer. “As a kid, I was often on job sites,” she says. “I loved it and didn’t want to stay inside with my mom, so my dad would take me to work with him and I’d sweep or move lumber around or just hang out.” Her parents also owned a building supply store where she spent a lot of time.

When she met her husband, he was a framer. They started a framing company and from there moved onto homebuilding, handling most of the work themselves (siding, painting, millwork, project management, interior design), and working on one house at a time.

The company grew, and is now a preferred builder doing multiple projects a year in McKinley Beach, a lakefront community on 872 acres of natural Okanagan landscape. The community includes single-family homes and townhomes, as well as lakeview lots ready for custom-built homes. 3rd Generation Homes specializes in custom builds, particularly ones on cliff faces, but about half of their business is spec homes. They also occasionally undertake renovations through a separate branch of the business.

These days deVeer spends her time managing the company’s team, financials and strategy. In addition, she selects land for their spec homes, oversees their land purchase, design and sales, as well as the sales on the custom side. It’s a broad scope of work, but you can tell deVeer is passionate about what she does.

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Cassidy deVeer

“I love starting new projects, meeting new clients, seeing new designs, and just about everything in the pre-construction phase at the beginning,” she says animatedly. “It is an exciting design challenge when clients’ wish lists don’t match up with their budgets.”

AN AWARD-WINNING HOME One of 3rd Generation Homes’ custom projects captured an award this year in the CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence. “Harvard Road” won for Best Detached Custom Home 4,001 to 5,000 sq. ft. The clients wanted to feel one with nature, and the company worked with architect Randy Benz to create a truly unique home. “There are so many different features in the home, like the way the roof integrates with the siding and the cantilevered floating living room,” deVeer says – a feat that was accomplished using 30-ft. steel beams welded to an embedded concrete structure. The home boasts clean lines everywhere, which she notes can be challenging to execute well during construction.

Sitting on 14 acres, the location and orientation of the home was selected to avoid direct afternoon sunlight. It was also designed to preserve the natural landscape and grades of the property, while saving specific trees. An outdoor shower off the master suite further allows the

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

FA S T FA C T S Company Name: 3rd Generation Homes Head Offices: Kelowna, BC Number of Full-Time Employees: 15 Projects per year: 10 under construction, five to eight in pre-construction

homeowners to experience the outdoors, and the home’s masonry continues through onto the interior walls, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor space.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES Most of the country is experiencing a shortage of skilled trades, and deVeer says her company is no exception. They do their back-framing, driveway prep and framing in-house so that they’re not always on the hunt for framers for every job. To help retain employees, 3rd Generation Homes pays their trades well and has developed a work culture where all employees are treated as important long-term contributors to the

company. They even help transition framers who want to stay with the company into mentorship roles and into more management positions.

Challenges aside, deVeer is excited that the community the company builds in is much more accepting of density than in the past. 3rd Generation Homes is building fourplexes now, and deVeer says the municipality of Kelowna is starting to make it easier to put those types of home types through, which she thinks will result in more in the future.

When asked if they’ve encountered NIMBYism in their community, deVeer says, “a little bit. But I think our community knows that we’re growing very fast, and that people need to live somewhere – highrises are not a good solution for everybody, especially families.”

Coming CHBA Events SUMMER/FALL 2022

OCT. 18 TO 22, 2022

Call for entries for the 2023 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence

2022 National Fall Meetings, Ottawa

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

SUMMER 2022

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Photos: Jon Adrian

B U I L D E R p ro f i l e

LEADING THE ASSOCIATION While 3rd Generation Homes joined CHBA for its housing awards, deVeer is now very involved in the association at her local and provincial levels, and nationally. It began with a call from her local president at the time, who was reaching out to members to update them on association activities. When deVeer asked how she could network with fellow members, she was told to come to a few meetings and check things out.

It wasn’t until she joined her local Board that DeVeer gained an appreciation for what CHBA is doing at all three levels. “I thought, this is incredible and I need to be part of this,” she says. “What we’re doing as an association is so important, and if we don’t sit with government at all three levels, no one else is going to. We need to speak up, and we’re so much stronger as a group. I’ve seen government policies change because of our voice and explaining how those policies effect our industry.”

DeVeer joined CHBA-Central Okanagan’s Board of Directors in 2017 and then stepped up to serve two-and-a-half years as their first female president. She’s now just begun her term as president of CHBA-British Columbia. She also participates in a several committees, including Chairing CHBA-CO’s Training House Committee, and participating on both CHBA-BC’s Government Relations Committee as well as the Urban Council at the national level of CHBA. DeVeer enjoys the policy side of things, and names visiting the BC Legislature to have policy discussions with MLAs a highlight of her volunteer experience.

A view of the cantilevered living room from the back of the home Under deVeer’s stewardship, 3rd Generation Homes is a thriving homebuilding company. And her personal dedication to serving the industry that she’s passionate about doesn’t seem to be slowing down For more images from this winning project, visit the image gallery at chba.ca/housingawards.

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

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BUILDER SENTIMENT RISING INSIGHTS AFTER ONE YEAR OF CHBA’S HOUSING MARKET INDEX

BY VIKTORIA HALIM, CHBA DIRECTOR, ECONOMIC AND URBAN AFFAIRS

n the first quarter of 2020, CHBA launched Canada’s first ever builder sentiments indicator – the CHBA Housing Market Index (HMI) for both the single-family and multi-family markets in the country. The HMI has given CHBA the means to explain the residential construction industry’s perceptions, experiences and issues using quantifiable data, providing insight and near-term trends of the industry well before the starts and permits data that we were previously limited to. Insight coming from the HMI has been a great tool to inform the government, media and consumers about trends and issues in the residential construction industry, and another aid to further CHBA’s government advocacy.

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Single-family market: year-overyear trends Single-family builder sentiment was strong throughout the year and was in the 80s for all but one quarter. The index fell in Q3 to 77.8, but then rose to historical highs in Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 (up seven points since Q1 2021).

The drop in Q3 of 2021 was reflective of challenges with the supply chain and labour, which dampened sentiment – challenges that still remain but are being offset by continuously increasing demand for single-family homes across the country which is keeping builder sentiment high. Q1 2022 saw a new HMI high of 89.4.

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Q1 2022 results Builder confidence was still on the rise in Q1 2022, as a result of strong consumer traffic and a sense from the industry that it will be a positive year ahead for new construction. This, despite a number of challenges that remain: The cost of materials continues to increase, while labour shortages persist. CHBA continues to support members by advocating for increased housing supply and for addressing supply chain issues across the country.

SINGLE-FAMILY HMI 92

89.4 90 88

84.9

86 84

83.2

82.9

82 80

77.8

78 76 74 72

Q1 2021

Q3 2021

Q3 2021

Q4 2021

Q1 2022

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

Multi-family market: year-overyear trends As with the single-family builders, the multi-family market started the year off positively, being stronger than the single-family market in Q2 of 2021, but this was followed by a slight decline in builder sentiment in Q3 of 2021. The Q3 decline reflected the uncertainty around certain aspects of the housing market – such as the stress test introduced at the time – including supply chain issues. However, in Q1 of 2022 the multi-family HMI is at a record-high 88.8, up nine points YOY, as the exodus from downtown cores due to the pandemic subsided, and partly as a result of a recovery in youth employment and renewed immigration – two key rental-source populations.

Special questions: year-over-year trends Year-over-year, the average increase in construction costs on a typical home due to rising lumber costs has doubled. Combining lumber and other material price increases, the national average construction cost increase for a 2,475-sq.-ft. home is up $80,000 compared to prior to the pandemic, half of which can be attributed to high lumber prices.

The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted numerous aspects of the supply chain. Since Q1 2021, appliances have continued to be the product most impacted by supply chain issues, but a long list of other products and services have also been impacted. These supply chain issues are resulting in significant delays in home completions as the national average delay is 10 weeks in Q1 2022, up from six weeks since Q1 2021.

MULTI-FAMILY HMI 90

88.8

88

87.1

86

83.9

84

81.6

82 78

77.6 76 74 72 70

Q1 2021

Q3 2021

Q4 2021

Q1 2022

APPROXIMATE INCREASE IN CONSTRUCTION COSTS ON A TYPICAL HOME DUE TO RISING LUMBER COSTS: Q1 2021 VS Q1 2022 46%

$40,000+

4% 18%

$30,001 to $40,000

8% 20%

$20,001 to $30,000

24% 12%

$10,001 to $20,000

34% 3%

$5,001 to $10,000

Less than $5,000

20% 1% 10%

Q1 2022

TOP 5 PRODUCTS/SERVICES IMPACTED IN Q1 2021

TOP 5 PRODUCTS/SERVICES IMPACTED IN Q1 2022

1. Appliances

1. Appliances

2. Plumbing materials and plumbing fixtures

2. Garage doors

3. Windows

3. Bathtubs, showers and sinks

4. Doors

4. Windows

5. Electrical materials and light fixtures

5. Plumbing materials and plumbing fixtures

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

Q3 2021

Q1 2021

CHBA continues to support members by advocating for increased housing supply and addressing supply chain issues across the country. The full HMI results for each quarter can be found at chba.ca/hmi.

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SILESTONE

CELEBRATES SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS WITH MILESTONE CAMPAIGN, ‘CHANGING THE WORLD FROM THE KITCHEN’

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Silestone by Cosentino, the leading global hybrid mineral surface for the world of architecture and design, is launching its biggest Silestone campaign in nearly 20 years.

Debuting in 21 countries simultaneously, Changing the World from the Kitchen celebrates how the brand has evolved through industry-leading sustainability innovations and marks the first dedicated campaign since its rebranding in 2021. It also responds to the new generation of consumers who demand a more sustainable world, and a more humane way of life.

A revolutionary surface brand for more than 30 years, Silestone was first introduced in 1990 and has been focused on maximizing nature’s resources from its origins, when CEO Paco Cosentino discovered that he could use remnants from his family quarry to deliver new, large format surfacing options. Since its debut, Silestone has been a pioneer by bringing colour into kitchens across the globe, introducing a hygienic countertop, and having a continued to focus on environmental initiatives, such as introducing its Eco by Cosentino line in 2012, and now culminating in its HybriQ by Silestone – a new, high-performance blend of premium minerals, quartz and recycled materials. The innovative HybriQ technology marks an entirely new product composition and manufacturing method for Silestone – with a newly debuted sustainable manufacturing process that uses 99-per-cent reused water, 100-per-cent renewable electric energy, zero water waste and a minimum of 20-per-cent recycled raw materials within HybriQ+ products’ composition. As of February 2022, the goal to have 100 per cent of all Silestone colours manufactured by Cosentino produced with HybriQ was reached.

Cosentino has now invested a total of more than $12 million in HybriQ and related

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sustainability efforts, including the more than 1,200 hours of research and development and its new advertising campaign, which highlights the evolution of sustainability and the importance of taking steps forward towards greener decisions. The Changing the World from the Kitchen digital campaign focuses on creating broad awareness of the new Silestone with its latest innovations and demonstrating how everyday people can change the world by using cleaner energy sources and materials, with lifestyle storytelling showing generational evolutions in household technologies like the shift from gas to induction and the introduction of surfacing innovations such as Silestone’s HybriQ technology. Beyond digital content, Silestone continues its work as an activist-minded brand, committing to the evolution of its in-store displays through the use of 100-per-cent recycled and sustainably sourced materials and will continue to embrace eco-friendly solutions at all levels.

“When I joined Cosentino Group over 15 years ago, I knew we would be able to make great strides towards a greener future,” says Valentin Tijeras Garcia, head of research and development at Cosentino Group. “We are constantly innovating from the inside out to find new ways to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. In just this year alone, we’ve made incredible progress

through the complete evolution of our Silestone manufacturing process and product composition, and I’m so honored to be part of such a significant mission.”

HybriQ+ is just one of the many sustainability initiatives that Cosentino has committed to over the years. Silestone Sunlit Days, one of the brand-new collections that launched in 2021, marked Silestone’s first-ever carbon neutral collection, building on the Carbon Neutral declaration achieved for Cosentino’s entire Dekton brand as of 2020, which confirms carbon neutrality is achieved throughout the entire life cycle of Dekton, from the extraction of the raw material to the use of the product and the end of its life.

Cosentino’s manufacturing headquarters is also extremely dedicated to ensuring sustainable practices, including housing a waste management and recovery plant onsite, managing water waste through a “zero waste” approach, reducing energy consumption in the production process by optimizing processes, and implementing improved air purification systems to capture both particles and volatile organic compounds to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

To learn more about Silestone’s commitment to sustainability and explore the new campaign, visit cosentino.com/en-ca/ silestone/hybriq-technology

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New Silestone With HybriQ+ Technology

Changing the World From the Kitchen More Sustainable. More Silestone.

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Photo: Vitaliy Zamedyanskiy

R E N OVATO R S’ c o r n e r

RAISING THE CEILING CHBA ADVOCACY HELPS INCREASE FEDERAL TAX CREDITS PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR RENOVATORS

BY DINA MCNEIL, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, RENOVATION SERVICES, CHBA

wo tax credits from the federal government aimed at accessible home renovations are providing opportunities for renovators and their clients, and CHBA advocacy has played a big role in those coming to fruition.

Starting this year, the federal government is increasing the ceiling on eligible expenses for the Home Accessibility Tax Credit from $10,000 to $20,000. This will provide additional tax support for homeowners looking to improve their home’s accessibility and improve independent living. The credit is for qualifying individuals (for example, someone who claims the Disability Tax Credit) or individuals who are at least 65 years old. CHBA was largely responsible for this tax credit’s origination a few years ago, working closely with the Minister of Revenue at the time. CHBA’s CEO Kevin Lee, who engaged extensively with the Minister to see the credit come about noted, “We are very pleased to see this credit now expanding to further assist those wanting to age in place – this will be a bigger and important part of our approach to housing and health care in the future.”

Pat Acquisto, chair of CHBA’s Adaptiv Home Council and owner of Pro Accessibility Ltd. in Toronto, predicts that the tax credit is going to create a lot of opportunities for renovators and homeowners. “With the higher tax credit, a homeowner who couldn’t previously afford to renovate for accessibility could potentially be in a position to make it happen.”

Acquisto’s company specializes in building, designing and renovating environments for inclusivity and accessibility. They’re seeing a growing need for home modifications.

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“Statistics show that a large cohort of Canadians are currently aging gracefully, and as that happens, there are more people who want to age in their homes. With that, the demand for accessible home modifications is on the rise,” he says.

The 2022 federal budget also included the introduction of a new Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit. Supporting secondary suites has been a focus of CHBA advocacy as an important means to increase housing supply, so this too was a welcome announcement in the budget. A qualifying renovation would be one that creates a secondary dwelling unit to permit an eligible person (a senior or a person with a disability) to live with a family member.

Starting in 2023, this will allow families to recover 15 per cent of eligible expenses up to $50,000 for the creation of a secondary dwelling unit.

“A lot of our clients are looking to move parents in with them, and people want their own living quarters. That could be modifying a basement or building a small extension,” says Acquisto. “As of now, we’ve seen some interest and I think with the funding that will grow.”

Renovators and other professionals who are interested in getting into the space should consider CHBA’s Adaptiv Home Renovation Course, which has special pricing for CHBA members. The course is aimed at renovators, designers, as well as health professionals who want to learn more about the aging in place market and the growing business opportunities across the country. Learning is focused on improving design with safety, security, ease of use, comfort, accessibility and occupant health, and includes a building knowledge component.

When done correctly with the homeowners in mind, home modifications can significantly improve quality of life. Federal tax credits are aiming to make that possible for more Canadians, and CHBA is working to give members the training and network needed to specialize in this field. For those who are interested, it can be very rewarding. “This type of work is for people who want to make a difference, who love helping people, and who love construction,” says Acquisto.

For more information on the CHBA Adaptiv Home Renovation Course, visit chba.ca/adaptivhome.

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2022 C H BA AWA R D S

INTRODUCING THE WINNERS OF THE 2022 CHBA NATIONAL AWARDS FOR HOUSING EXCELLENCE

W

ishing thinking, eh? Last year at this time, we were hoping to present the 2022 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence in person, to celebrate members’ outstanding work live – for the first time in two years.

But, once again, the pandemic had other plans, and this year we had to once again present the awards virtually. But in no way does that diminish the accomplishments and excellence of homebuilders across the country, as you’ll see in the following pages.

For a complete list of this year’s winners, visit chba.ca/housingawards.

And here’s to finally being able to get together next year to celebrate the industry’s achievements – in person.

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2022 C H BA AWA R D S DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD

Jayman BUILT Calgary | jayman.com

BEST MID– TO HIGHRISE BUILDING (COMPLETED) “Odyssey D10 at Westman Village, “ with NORR Architects Engineers Planners

BEST DETACHED PRODUCTION HOME UNDER 1,800 SQUARE FEET “The Cooper 20”

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BEST NEW COMMUNITY AWARD “Westman Village by Jayman BUILT,” with Norr Architects

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A DV E RTO R I A L

OWENS CORNING

LAUNCHES FOAMULAR XPS RADONBARRIER RADON ABATEMENT SYSTEM

FEATURES

O

wens Corning, manufacturer of PINK FIBERGLAS insulation and other energy-saving products, has launched its new CCMC certified FOAMULAR XPS RadonBarrier Radon Abatement System.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is odourless, colourless and tasteless. When radon is released into the atmosphere it gets diluted and poses negligible risk to human health.

However, if radon accumulates inside a home, it can pose a serious health risk. According to a Toronto Star article in May 2021, radon is the second leading cause of cancer, after cigarette smoking.

About one in five homes – 5,600 of the 30,000 tested nationwide – showed radon levels exceeding Health Canada’s guideline of 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3), according to data gathered by researchers from the University of Calgary conducting this investigation. The radon threat could be

neutralized with simple and affordable technology at time of construction.

“The innovative Owens Corning radon barrier system is a smart choice in new construction,” says Sal Ciarlo, director of technical services and codes and standards.

“It helps protect the homeowner from radon gas entry and helps create the ultimate lower living space – providing comfort, indoor air quality, and most importantly, a safer living area.”

Owens Corning is proud to introduce an energy-efficient and sustainable solution for radon abatement:

r 5IJSE QBSUZ DFSUJñ FE JO $BOBEB m $$.$ 3FQPSU 3 r $POUSJCVUFT UP B TBGF IPNF FOWJSPONFOU r 1SPWJEFT JOEPPS BJS RVBMJUZ BEEJOH DPNGPSU UP UIF IPNF r .FFUT DPEFT JO B DPTU Fí FDUJWF NBOOFS r 0í FST NVMUJQMF $$.$ BQQSPWFE TZTUFN PQUJPOT r 'BTUFS UP JOTUBMM UIBO DPOWFOUJPOBM QPMZ r &BTJFS UP DVU OP QPMZ

FOAMULAR XPS RADONBARRIER RADON ABATEMENT SYSTEM COMPONENTS r '0".6-"3 /(9 $PEF#PSE &YUSVEFE Polystyrene Rigid Insulation r 0XFOT $PSOJOH +PJOU4FBM3 5BQF r 0XFOT $PSOJOH 1SP1JOL $PNGPSU4FBM (VO Foam or Code Compliant Flexible Sealant.

r UJNFT HSFBUFS QFSGPSNBODF UIBO NJM QPMZ r &BTJFS UP JOTUBMM UIBO &14 &YQBOEFE 1PMZTUZSFOF *OTVMBUJPO r -FTT FYQFOTJWF UIBO 41' 4QSBZ 1PMZVSFUIBOF 'PBN *OTVMBUJPO

For more information, visit owenscorning.ca/radonbarrier.

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2022 C H BA AWA R D S RENOVATION EXCELLENCE AWARD

Valleyburn Properties Corp.

St. Thomas, Ont. | valleyburn.ca

BEST

BEST

WHOLE HOME RENOVATION – $200,000 TO $400,000

SINGLE ROOM RENOVATION

“The Timberframe Revival” with Freeborn + Company

“The Timberframe Revival”

Dream Unlimited Calgary | dream.ca

BEST RENDERINGS “Alpine Park”

MARKETING EXCELLENCE AWARD

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WE SEE AND SELL YOUR VISION Customized sales and marketing services for builders We are a specialized pre-construction brokerage with a custom project approach. We know that one sales model does not fit all builders or projects. Instead, we listen to our clients to learn their individual needs, which ensures each project they launch sets a new benchmark for success.

Our services extend beyond what you see on the sales floor to include floorplan design, APS review, marketing, and achieving maximum revenue for our clients. Simply put, we see and sell your vision.

3200 Dufferin Street, Suite 201, Toronto ON, M6A 3B2 • Visit us at 1111Realty.ca

2022 C H BA AWA R D S

Forge Properties Inc. White Rock, BC | forge.ca

BEST INTERIOR DECORATING (MODEL/SHOW HOME) “The Wraith at Fantom” with Form Creative Inc.

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BEST

BEST

BATHROOM

BEDROOM/SUITE

“The Wraith at Fantom” with Form Creative Inc.

“The Wraith at Fantom” with Form Creative Inc.

SUMMER 2022

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WE’RE COMMITTED TO CHBA Work with a dedicated agent and risk management team that understands the construction industry and are committed to helping you protect your business.

Learn more at federated.ca

Federated Insurance Company of Canada is the insurer of Federated Insurance policies. Federated and Federated Insurance are registered trademarks of Federated Mutual Insurance Company. Used under license. [3706-030 ed01E | 08-2021]

2022 C H BA AWA R D S

Sitka Coast Construction N o r t h V a n c o u v e r, B C sitkacoastconstruction.com

BEST WHOLE HOME RENOVATION – $600,001 TO $800,000

BEST KITCHEN RENOVATION – OVER $100,000 “Soiree Suite Spot”

“Soiree Suite Spot”

Concert Properties Ltd.

BEST BEST SALES OFFICE “Drift at North Harbour”

MID– TO HIGHRISE BUILDING (PLANNED) “Drift at North Harbour”

Va n co u ve r | co n ce r t p ro p e r t i e s.co m

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FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF THIS YEAR’S WINNERS, VISIT CHBA.CA/HOUSINGAWARDS

Modular Innovation Award

BEST LONG VIDEO

ANC Group, Brantford, Ont., “CASE Home – Compact Affordable Sustainable Efficient”

BEST BRANDING AND IDENTITY

Net Zero Home Awards

Renovation Awards

BEST PRODUCTION NET ZERO HOME Minto Communities, Ottawa “The Caraway,” with Building Energy Inc. and Tanya Collins Design

BEST CUSTOM OR RENOVATED NET ZERO HOME Naikoon Contracting Ltd., North Vancouver, BC “White Rock Net Zero,” with Capital Home Energy Inc.

Community Development Award BEST GROWING COMMUNITY AWARD University of Calgary Properties Group, Calgary, “University District Calgary”

Tridel and Gladstone Media, Toronto “The Dupont”, with Pureblink and U31 Design Rosehaven Homes, Oakville, Ont., “The Vincent”, with McOuat Partnership

BEST KITCHEN RENOVATION – UNDER $70,000 RND Construction Ltd., Ottawa, “Balmoral Kitchen”, with Cedar Ridge Designs Inc.

BEST KITCHEN RENOVATION – $70,000 TO $100,000 Thomas Cochren Homes, Hamilton, Ont., “Aberdeen”

BEST EXTERIOR RENOVATION

StateView Homes, Toronto, “The Enclave”, with 52 Pick-up Inc.

BEST WHOLE HOME RENOVATION – $400,001 TO $600,000

BEST WEBSITE

BRIKS Design-Build Group, Toronto, “A Downtown Dream”

BEST VIRTUAL TOUR EXPERIENCE Adera Development Corp., Vancouver, “Crest”

BEST SHORT VIDEO Treasure Hill Homes, Vaughan, Ont., “McMichael Estates”, with 52 Pick-up Inc.

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BEST DETACHED PRODUCTION HOME OVER 2,800 SQUARE FEET Marble Construction Ltd., Vancouver, “RENTON” with Maz Majidi PREC

BEST DETACHED CUSTOM HOME 2,000 TO 3,000 SQUARE FEET

CCR Build + Remodel, London, Ont., “The Modern Suite”

Condoworks Design Renovations Ltd., Vancouver, “The Parisian” with Kalu Interiors

Altree Developments and Gladstone Media, Toronto, “Forest Hill Private Residences”, with Graziani + Corazza Architects Inc. and U31

Jayman BUILT, Edmonton, “Arlington 28-4”

BEST BASEMENT RENOVATION

BEST BROCHURE/KIT

BEST PRINT AD

BEST DETACHED PRODUCTION HOME 2,401 TO 2,800 SQUARE FEET

Adisa Homes Ltd., Squamish, BC, “Courtyard House”

BEST WHOLE HOME RENOVATION – UNDER $200,000

Collecdev and Montana Steele Advertising, Toronto, “Cielo Condos”

Park View Homes, North Gower, Ont. , “Modern Country”

Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder, Burlington, Ont., “Marguerite Ensuite”

BEST SIGNAGE

BEST DIGITAL ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

BEST DETACHED PRODUCTION HOME 2,101 TO 2,400 SQUARE FEET

BEST DETACHED CUSTOM HOME UNDER 2,000 SQUARE FEET

Men At Work Design Build Ltd., Toronto, “Kingsway Residence”

Canada Lands Company, Edmonton, “Village at Griesbach”, with Consumer Strategies Group Inc.

Rinaldi Homes, St. Catharines, Ont., “Black Beauty”

BEST BATHROOM RENOVATION

Marketing Awards Rohit Group of Companies, Edmonton, “Stadium Yards”

BEST DETACHED PRODUCTION HOME 1,800 TO 2,100 SQUARE FEET

BEST WHOLE HOME RENOVATION – OVER $800,000 Bercum Builders, Vernon, BC, “Cypress Hill Estates”, with Arden Tile

New Home Awards

Black Thumb Contracting and JDL Homes Vancouver, Vancouver, “The Passive Narrowtive”, with AI Technology & Design, daltile Canada, Designs by Katerina & Silvie, Harmony Sense Interiors, Martin Knowles Photo/Media, Midland Appliance, Nick Bray Architecture and Pacific Rim Cabinets

BEST DETACHED CUSTOM HOME 3,001 TO 4,000 SQUARE FEET Bachly Construction, Bolton, Ont., “Modern Abode”

BEST DETACHED CUSTOM HOME 4,001 TO 5,000 SQUARE FEET 3rd Generation Homes, Kelowna, BC, “Harvard Road”, with Express Flooring Ltd., Grand Openings Windows + Doors Ltd. and Westwood Fine Cabinetry Inc.

BEST DETACHED CUSTOM HOME OVER 5,000 SQUARE FEET

Averton, Edmonton, “Midtown”

My House Design/Build Team Ltd., Surrey, BC, “Riverview Chateau”, with Beyond Beige Interior Designs Inc. and LeSystem Development Group Ltd.

BEST ATTACHED LOWRISE HOME 1,500 SQUARE FEET AND OVER

New Home Spaces Awards

Dream Ridge Homes, Calgary, “Modern Brownstone”

BEST PRODUCTION KITCHEN

BEST ATTACHED LOWRISE HOME UNDER 1,500 SQUARE FEET

BEST ENTRY-LEVEL HOME J. Zsiros Contracting Ltd., Courtenay, BC, “Carriage House Elegance”

Kylemore, Markham, Ont., “Kennedy Manors”, with The Brand Factory

BEST CUSTOM KITCHEN Vicky’s Homes, Edmonton, “Viena II”.

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2022 L E A D E R S H I P a wa rd s

ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Winners RECOGNIZING THE LEADERS WITHIN CHBA

very year, volunteer members, HBAs and their staff work tirelessly to build strong communities, strengthen the industry, and give back to cities, towns and neighbourhoods across Canada. The CHBA Association Leadership Awards honour the leaders within our association – both individuals and our local and provincial homebuilders’ associations. This year’s honours were given in person when members and staff met in Ottawa for the spring CHBA National Committee and Council Meetings.

Congratulations to the very deserving recipients.

E

Rick Weste

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MEMBER OF THE YEAR RICK WESTE

HBA OF THE YEAR MANITOBA HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION

The prestigious Member of the Year award is a long-term achievement award for efforts over many years, and this year it was bestowed on Rick Weste of BILD Lethbridge Region. Rick was President of the Canadian Manufactured Housing Institute and was instrumental in bringing the modular sector together to form the CHBA Modular Construction Council, serving as the first Chair of the Council and on the CHBA Board of Directors from 2017 to 2019, helping the factory-built side of our industry bring its important voice in participating in CHBA meetings with Members of Parliament during our Day on the Hill events. A member of the Technical Research Committee since 2015, he served as Chair from 2019 to May 2022. This dedicated and engaged member has attended national codes committee meetings, including volunteering on committees such as the Standing Committee on Energy Efficiency Task Group on Performance Improvement (Architectural), and has provided ongoing advice to National staff to guide codes work during some very challenging times on the technical front. He’s also now a member of the CHBA Executive Committee, and we thank him for his ongoing commitment to the Association.

The HBA of the Year Award recognizes overall excellence by an HBA in delivering a strong and positive voice for the homebuilding industry, and in supporting the business success of members and their ability to provide affordability, quality and choice in housing for consumers. This year, it went to the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association (MHBA). MHBA developed a New Member Information Package and a member recognition program. It also helped lead the establishment of a formalized skills gap analysis process for the construction sector, engaged with education and research entities to increase training opportunities and identify forward-thinking research projects within the industry, sponsored a “Tooling up Teens” video series to promote the building trades as a career of choice, and presented two future leaders within a local College Polytech carpentry program with awards. This and more was done while participating in more than 180 formal meetings with three levels of government, external stakeholders, and industry partners in 2021 on a wide variety of public policy and industry advocacy issues.

The association also had successful spring and fall Parade of Homes, with more than 77,000 visitors.

BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

Left to right, Rick Weste from BILD Lethbridge Region; Ralph Oswald from MHBA; and Sherry Claybourn from CHBA-New Brunswick

EO OF THE YEAR LANNY MCINNES The Executive Officer of the Year Award recognizes an EO who has demonstrated excellence as the chief staff officer of an HBA, and this year it goes to Lanny McInnes of MHBA. He’s been at the helm since 2017 and rapidly became the trusted, well-informed voice of the industry in the Manitoba region, including strengthening the association’s relations with the Urban Development Institute. Lanny was actively involved in developing the first long-term growth plan for the area, taking a leadership role and representing the industry. Under his leadership, MHBA improved its financial position, despite declines in revenue due to pandemic restrictions on events. Staffing roles were optimized, membership applications increased, communications with members and the public were enhanced, and a new onboarding process was implemented. Lanny engaged often with the media, contributing weekly articles to the local news outlet and partaking in local television and

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radio interviews to discuss current industry-related trends or challenges. And those are just a few examples of how this Executive Officer has strengthened MHBA and served its members and the industry in Manitoba.

Lanny McInnes

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD CHBA NEW BRUNSWICK The CHBA Community Service Award recognizes a local or provincial HBA for their community service or charitable projects that demonstrate the commitment of the housing industry to making a difference to the quality of life of their communities.

CHBA-NB is a long-time supporter of a poverty reduction program funded by the province, city and community. Its main involvement is with a Christmas PJ drive, which aims to ensure that all children up to age 18 have a new pair of pyjamas while they wait for Santa. In 2021, they also provided hand-knitted socks, hats, sweaters and mitts to children by working with senior citizen. Staff collect pyjamas and cash donations from members each year, with about a 30-per-cent participation rate among members. It’s great to see members and HBAs contributing to their communities – see page 42 for the Giving Back feature for more examples.

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EXTERIOR design

LIVING YOUR BEST

Outdoor Life

BY ALLAN BRITNELL

ALL THE OUTBUILDINGS, ACCESSORIES AND ACTIVITIES YOUR CLIENTS CRAVE (AND YOU JUST MIGHT COVET YOURSELF) TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE WARM WEATHER

äĢĢĆʼn ÁĢűĩĢä͜ A private court has always been a status symbol in tonier parts of town. Grass, clay or cushioned surfaces are available, and don’t forget to include a ball machine to fine-tune your game. Looking for something smaller and trendier? Then consider pickleball, which proponents bill as “North America’s fastest growing sport.” Invented in the 1960s, the game is undergoing a retro resurgence. Played on a badminton-sized court with paddles and a wiffle ball, like tennis, you can play singles or doubles.

fter seemingly skipping spring (again), we’re heading straight into summer. And after what we’ve been through the last couple of years, you and your clients will want to make the most of the outdoor season. Here is a collection of products and ideas for the ultimate in outdoor living.

A

Putting green ÁÚėűÁŅà ÙʹÙÁěě Basketball may have been invented by a Canadian (a phys ed teacher named James Naismith created the game while working for the YMCA in the 1890s), but it took the Toronto Raptors’ winning title run in the 2019 NBA Finals to get the entire nation fully behind the sport. For those with the means, a hoop attached to the garage just won’t cut it. That’s where a company such as Sport Court comes in. They can install full-size multi-use outdoor surfaces – complete with team logos and colour schemes – or fit single-net courts into spaces that take up less than 1,000 sq. ft. Visit sportcourt.ca for more information.

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Personally, I subscribe to Mark Twain’s notion that “golf is a good walk, spoiled.” But if you’ve been bitten by the golfing bug, who wouldn’t want a home putting green to work on their short game?

You could source a suitable seed (such as Bermuda grass) and religiously water and mow to keep it up to PGA quality, or make life easier with an artificial turf surface. You can pick up everything you need at your favourite big box store to install a seven-by-10-ft. green for about $500.

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n i e t a m i t l U The g n i m a G r Outdoo ÁÚėűÁŅà ʼnłĩŅőʼn ūĆőĂ ÚŖěőŖŅä Depending on your client’s background, they may play bocce – favoured in Italy and Portugal, France’s similar game called boules, lawn bowling for the ex-pat Brits, or horseshoes, cornhole and ladder golf for the North American crowd. An official bocce court is 86.92 ft. long by 13.12 ft. wide, and lawn bowling “rinks” are 14 by 120 ft., ruling those out for most urban homeowners. But you can play boules in a 10-by-40-ft. space, and you need only 15 ft. between the two threetiered ladder golf racks.

e c a p S g n i v Extra Li 'ŰőäŅĆĩŅ Ăĩġä ĩƆ Úä Home offices proved to be essential during lockdown. Unfortunately, for many, that meant setting up shop in the dining room or a dark corner of the basement. Adding a dedicated outdoor space, such as Toronto-based Adode structures, is an attractive alternative. With a 108-sq.-ft. footprint, they don’t require a permit (in most cases), are mounted on helical piles, and can be set up with full HVAC systems for year-round comfort. After hours, they easily convert to a sheltered outdoor oasis. Visit theabode.ca for more information.

Build a bunkie As a builder, you can design and create your own bunkie for clients, offer to assemble a simple DIY kit from the local building supply centre, or order a high-end model such as BC-based Pan-Abode’s western red cedar structures. Pan-Abode has standard plans for seven accessory buildings ranging in size from 108 to 650 sq. ft., though each can be customized to your client’s needs. Or tap into your skillset and type “Cottage Life bunkie plans” into Google to find a free, very detailed PDF showing how to make a loft structure that has a 108-sq.-ft. footprint, meaning that, in most jurisdictions, you won’t need a building permit. (Full disclosure: I helped write and edit the plans in a previous life.)

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Priva cy

Photo by HideAway Inc.

EXTERIOR design

#äÚĩŅÁőĆŪä ġäőÁě ʼnÚŅääĢʼn In tight urban centres, it can be hard to have that sense of privacy in the backyard, particularly if the lot is shared with the neighbours. A couple free-standing metal screens can stylishly break up those awkward sightlines from your patio table into hot tub next door.

Ideally, you’ll be able to secure the base into the driveway or patio so they don’t topple over in heavy winds. If not, sandbags will do the trick.

Photo: Sunspace Sunrooms

głÁńŖä ʼnÚŅääĢʼn Ontario-based Sunspace Sunrooms has expanded beyond screened porch enclosures and three- or four-season indoor/outdoor rooms with its Sun Lounge. These easy to assemble, durable acrylic panels built into an aluminum frame, all resting on an aluminum deck. The no-maintenance structures come in several shades and layouts and are light enough that, with a couple helpers, owners can move them around the property to catch sunrises and sunsets.

Visit sunspacesunrooms.com for more information.

ŅĆŪÁÚű ŅÁĆěĆĢúʼn Glass railings have been all the rage for decks over the past few years. But depending on the layout, you might not want a clear view in all directions – say, on the sides with nearby neighbours. In that case, most glass railing manufacturers offer frosted glass panels or aluminum inserts that fit into their frames.

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BUILDINGEXCELLENCE.CA

The next generation of outdoor faucets.

Introducing the Aquor® House Hydrant. It’s the world’s first stainless steel wall hydrant that allows instant, effortless access to your water.

The flush mount design serves your outdoor faucet needs. It’s both easy to use and easy on the eyes. Ideal for retrofit or new construction.

Visit brontecollection.ca/products/aquor.php or scan for more information

EXTERIOR design

Shelter ha de and S ŅőĆÚŖěÁőĆĢú ŖġÙŅäěěÁ I’ll never forget the time a strong breeze put so much pressure on my parents’ patio umbrella seated in the middle of the table that the glass tabletop exploded into a million tempered pieces. That will never happen with a standalone articulating umbrella. The ability to adjust the coverage as the sun moves across the sky justifies the premium you pay over a static umbrella. Just make sure you have enough sand in the base to keep it upright.

Dĩő ʼnőŖƅ Patio heating allows you to use the space well into the cooler seasons. Options include hanging or wall-mounted electric heaters, free-standing natural gas or propane patio heaters, or patio tables with built-in gas or electric heating units.

ÚŅääĢäà Ņĩĩġʼn Unless you want to smell like DEET or constantly be inhaling citronella fumes, a screened seating area is essential for enjoying the outdoors at dusk for much of the warm-weather season. Several companies, including Sunspace Sunrooms, make custom-fitted screens to turn porches and other covered spaces into three-season rooms. Sunspace also has a product called WeatherMaster Windows with flexible vinyl panels. These can be closed to keep the breeze out when needed, or open up to allow up to 75-per-cent ventilation.

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EXTERIOR design

R and R #ĩÚė ʼnőĩŅÁúä

Photos: CanadaDocks

After the kitchen, the dock is probably the second busiest place at any cottage. So, it’s important to keep things orderly on the limited deck space. Modular dock designs can be equipped with myriad built-in accessories, including canoe, kayak and paddleboard racks, storage boxes, benches and more. The equipment shown here is

by CanadaDocks. Visit canadadocks.ca for more information.

'Áʼnű úěĆàäŅ Getting into and out of a canoe or kayak from a dock can be a challenge, particularly if the deck is riding high above the water. This is where a boarding platform comes in handy.

Ontario-based CanadaDocks has two sizes of platform (one-by-eight ft., and four-by-eight ft.) that connect to the modular docking systems.

ĩěĆà ÚĩŅä

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SUMMER 2022

Photo: Fortress Building Products

With the current price of lumber, you might be wishing there were some alternatives to framing your decks in wood. Well, there are. For one, steel framing. Industry leader Fortress Evolution’s framing components are durable, easy to install, and work with whatever decking material your client chooses. The company also has its own decking and railing systems. Sure, it still costs more than PT. But your clients will appreciate that their deck framing will likely outlast them.

For more information, visit fortressbp.com.

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Ph oto: Th ruf low

ĩěÁŅʹłĩūäŅäà àĩÚėʼn Thruflow, an Ontario-based manufacturer of lightweight but durable decks, docks, and accessibility ramps has a product that enables your dock to generate solar power.

The company’s Sol series interlock with its dock panels.

The non-slip panels are safe to walk on in shoes or bare feet, and generate up to 24 watts per panel.

Visit thruflow.com for more information.

Dĩő őŖÙʼn ÁĢà ʼnÁŖĢÁʼn Do you prefer a soak or a sweat? Or perhaps a bit of both?

Deck builders can get creative incorporating hot tubs into their designs, and any builder can assemble one of the many easy-to-build sauna kits on the market. If it’s for a client, just include a “right to use” clause at the end of installation day.

;ĆŅä łĆőʼn There’s something primal about staring into a fire. Toss in some s’mores and you’ve got the ultimate cheap family night out. Style options range from natural stone, landscaping blocks or various ready-made metal options. Or consider a chiminea. Regardless of the design you or your clients prefer, check to make sure the local bylaws allow for open flames. And, if so, don’t set the firepit up close to trees, buildings or overhanging wires.

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I N S I D E R i n fo

THE CANADIAN CONSTRUCTION SECTOR AND FEDERAL BUDGET 2022 RELIEF ON THE WAY, BUT CHALLENGES REMAIN

BY MELISSA AVEIRO, CPA, CA, REGIONAL TAX LEADER, MNP, AND REAL ESTATE AND CONSTRUCTION LEADER,

Melissa Aveiro

ousing was a key focus for Canadians in 2022. This is one of the most complex public challenges in the country right now, as housing, real estate and construction involves municipal, provincial and federal governments.

Many in the industry hoped changes in the 2022 federal budget would address challenges around supply chain and rising costs. While there is much to do to address the challenges faced by the Canadian construction sector, Budget 2022 did offer some relief.

H

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BUSINESS TAX MEASURES Among the business-related tax measures announced in the budget was the change to the small business deduction to include companies with higher capital balances. This change is a positive one for medium-sized businesses, as they may be able to now access the reduced corporate tax rate.

Unfortunately, given that there is still a limit on this due to investment income, this change may not extend to capital intensive

businesses like real estate, construction or manufacturing.

As a significant number of construction companies are family owned, it was good to see there were no changes to current tax rules around intergenerational business transfers.

Changes introduced through Bill C-208 in

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“ Governments all need to work together to develop policies that drive Áƅ ĩŅàÁÙĆěĆőű ĆĢ őĂä ÚĩĢʼnőŅŖÚőĆĩĢ ĩù Ģäū ʼnŖłłěű͖ őĂä ŅäőŅĩƈ őőĆĢú ÁĢà ŅäĢĩŪÁőĆĩĢ ĩù äŰĆʼnőĆĢú ʼnŖłłěű͕”

rents and house prices. While the results of such a review remain to be seen, the direction of this change could mean corporations that invest in real estate could be penalized in some fashion.

HST purposes. This has historically been a grey area as to whether it was taxable, so the government is clarifying that it is, in fact, taxable. The ultimate purchaser ends up paying tax on the full cost of the build and the assignment sale.

PERSONAL INCENTIVES

mid-2021 allowed parents to succeed their businesses to their children in a tax effective manner. The 2022 budget announced a consultation period relating to this legislation, but did indicate the government would keep the legislation in place for legitimate business successions.

Budget 2022 also indicated the federal government will conduct a review of housing as an asset class in corporations as there is a perception corporate ownership is driving up

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A number of personal tax measures announced will positively impact the construction sector.

You may see an increase in renovation activity due to the multi-generational home renovation tax credit and home accessibility tax credits. They are intended to offset some of the costs for renovations made to homes for the elderly, and those living with disabilities.

However, the uptick might not be seen right away, given it requires a second suite addition, and municipalities will have to change zoning to allow it.

Another indirect support to construction businesses is a travel and relocation tax deduction announced for tradespeople and apprentices. Budget 2022 acknowledged skilled trade workers are essential and in short supply, and they need to get to a job site no matter where that is. To address this, the government introduced a new personal tax deduction of up to $4,000 a year in eligible travel and relocation expenses. Managers should make sure workers and prospective hires are aware of the available tax savings.

GST/HST ON ASSIGNMENT SALES Budget 2022 proposed to make all assignment sales of newly constructed or substantially renovated residential housing taxable for GST/

CONCLUSION While the noted credits may provide some relief from increased costs for individuals, the measures don’t address some of the causes of the costs being so high in the first place, such as development and regulatory burdens, and supply chain issues.

Although it is evident the government clearly recognizes the current challenges, long-term solutions for the construction sector will require the federal government to work with provinces, territories and municipalities to ensure the sector fulfils its potential.

Governments all need to work together to develop policies that drive affordability in the construction of new supply, the retrofitting and renovation of existing supply, to ultimately foster greater economic accessibility for those aspiring to purchase a home.

MNP recently hosted a webinar for CHBA providing a detailed discussion on how Budget 2022 affects the real estate and construction sector. Members can view the recording at chba.ca/webinars.

For more information, contact Melissa Aveiro, CPA, CA, South Western Ontario Regional Tax Leader, and National Real Estate and Construction Tax Leader, at 519.286.1807 or melissa.aveiro@mnp.ca

SUMMER 2022

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̞͡ SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS Silestone by Cosentino, the leading global hybrid mineral surface for the world of architecture and design, is launching its biggest campaign in nearly 20 years.

“Changing the World From the Kitchen” celebrates how the brand has evolved through industry-leading sustainability innovations. The innovative new HybriQ technology marks an entirely new product composition and manufacturing method for Silestone – with a newly debuted sustainable manufacturing process that uses 99-per-cent reused water, 100-per-cent renewable electric energy, zero water waste and a minimum of 20-per-cent recycled raw materials.

COSENTINO cosentino.com

̟͡ GEOMETRICAL GAME CHANGER It’s time to think outside the box. The new geometrical HEX shower drain by Serenity is definitely a game changer. In a world with infinite possibilities, why settle for ordinary? This six-sided beauty comes in four trending finishes, including brushed gold, matte black, brushed nickel and gold. There are also custom split-finish options available.

SERENITY LUXURY serenity.luxury

̠͡ SWITCH TO SMART. SWITCH TO EASY. SWITCH TO BEAUTIFUL. Schneider Electric has introduced a line of wiring devices in two aesthetics: X and XD series. These devices bring ease of installation, style, durability, and connectivity to the residential market with a focus on providing personalization and helping save energy.

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC se.com/ca

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̡͡ BUILD IT WITH BIGFOOT Bigfoot Systems Footing Forms are the leading engineered footing form for concrete construction tubes on the market and offer increased structural stability through its bell shape.

BIGFOOT SYSTEMS bigfootsystems.com

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TOGETHER AT LAST. The industry’s most comprehensive manuals are now available.

The new edition of the national bestselling CHBA Builders’ Manual is for those who need to know how to build homes in one of the WRXJKHVW FOLPDWHV RQ HDUWK DQG IRU WKH ȴUVW WLPH DGGUHVVHV 1HW Zero Housing. Written as companion text, the CHBA Renovators’ Manual takes a deep dive into applying building science to renovating for a wide variety of circumstances. Available now for purchase individually or with special bundle pricing. CHBA members get a further discount on these two must-have texts.

To purchase, visit chba.ca/buildersmanual.

T H E G I V I N G BAC K PAG E

COMMUNITY SPIRIT C

anadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) members have been building, developing and renovating Canadian homes for generations.

We are sharing the extraordinary contributions CHBA members make in their communities every day through our ongoing #CdnBuilt for Generations campaign. Here are a few recent stories. To read more, follow our hashtag or visit blog.chba.ca/category/giving-back.

CHBA Central Interior collaborates with students on YMCA/YWCA Dream Home For more than 30 years, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Interior (CHBA-CI) have collaborated on the Y Dream Home in support of the YMCA/YWCA. Also known as the Training House, the Y Dream Home is built in collaboration with TRU’s building trades students, allowing them to take knowledge gained in the classroom and apply it in the real world. This year, with the dedication and commitment of students, sub trades, suppliers and sponsors (many of them CHBA-CI members), the 2022 Training House exceeded the Step Code 3 target, a new mandatory measure of home energy efficiency in Kamloops, BC. The benefits of the Training House three-fold: TRU students gain practical knowledge and skills, industry can showcase new products and services as well as give back to the people who support their businesses, and the lottery helps the YMCA/YWCA provide services that improve the quality of life of members in the Kamloops community.

SalDan Construction Group sponsors Habitat Home for family in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. In a partnership with Habitat for Humanity (HFH) Sault Ste. Marie and Area, Sudbury and District Home Builders’ Association (SDHBA) member SalDan Construction Group recently helped one local family achieve homeownership by sponsoring their Habitat Home. “I have spent my whole adult life struggling to secure a home for my family – constantly having it be just out of reach. This is a dream come true,” says Tanya Aikens, who, along with her son and grandson, were selected to be HFH Sault Ste. Marie and Area’s 14th homeowner. The home was built with a 25-per-cent reduction in energy consumption and 36-per-cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the National Energy Code, resulting in greater affordability for the Aiken family, and a reduced environmental impact. Since 2019, SalDan Construction has partnered with HFH in building homes for five local families.

CHBA South Okanagan raises $2,600 for women in need Pancakes are best enjoyed when they support a great cause. Members of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association South Okanagan in BC recently came together to put on pancake breakfast in support of the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS). Not only was the First Annual Builders Pancake Breakfast a great way for members to give back to their community, it also raised $2,600 to help support women and children in their recovery from the impact of violence and abuse. SOWINS has offered shelter, safety and support to those impacted by abuse in the South Okanagan community since 1981. SOWINS also partners with peer agencies, works on response and policy development committees, and provides educational information about abuse in the South Okanagan community.

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