Net Zero Home Renovations | Caledon - Erin - Dufferin County

Net Zero Renovations

Inspire Homes renovates homes in Caledon, Erin, Dufferin County and surrounding areas to meet Net Zero Reno requirements.

Net Zero Home

A Net Zero Home is designed and built to produce as much energy as it consumes on an annual basis.  Net Zero Homes produce as much clean energy as they consume - typically from solar energy. They are designed to be up to 80% more energy efficient than typical new homes and use renewable energy systems to produce the remaining energy they need.

The house is designed and built to provide consistent temperatures throughout, prevent drafts, and filter indoor air to reduce dust and allergens. The result: exceptional energy performance and the ultimate in comfort.  Built for a better living experience.

A Net Zero home meets the technical requirements of the NetZero program, including the energy performance rating using NRCan’s EnerGuide Rating System.

Net Zero READY Home

A Net Zero READY Home has the same energy performance as a Net Zero Home, but the renewable energy system is not yet installed.  So, super energy efficient and comfortable, just no energy generation.

Net Zero Renovations

A Net Zero Renovation achieves the same energy targets as a Net Zero new home.  Since renovating is more complex that building a new net zero home, there is some flexibility in meeting Net Zero requirements.  However, the standards for energy consumption and renewable energy generation requirements remain the same as new Net Zero homes.  A Net Zero Reno allows you to remain in the home and neighbourhood you love, while improving the performance and comfort of your home.

What Are The Benefits of A Net Zero Home?

There are many benefits of a super energy efficient Net Zero Home.  Some of the benefits are:

- Increased comfort, due to improved insulation and windows, and reduction in air leakage and drafts

- Up to 80% more energy efficient than a typical home, with greatly reduces energy bills

- Reduction in exterior noise

- Environmentally responsible

- Produces as much energy as it consumes

- Higher resale value

What Is The Ideal Home For A Net Zero Renovation?

The ideal home for a Net Zero Renovation in Caledon, Erin, Dufferin and surrounding areas has the following characteristics:

- Built prior to 2000, or even better, before 1980 where there was little if any insulation added to a home

- Simple shape; square or rectangular, with simple roof lines

- Has a south facing roof with minimal solar obstruction (ie: trees)

- Is in need of renovations

How Do We Do It?

We start by analyzing the current house, how much energy it uses.  We then develop options for improving energy efficiency.

We work with a qualified Energy Advisor to assess the house,  and create a plan, which typically involves increased insulation, airtightness, better windows, and improved mechanical systems.

Finally, we add on-site energy generation, typically with solar panels on the roof.

Do You Have To Add Solar Panels?

No.  Options for energy generation could include other renewable energy sources.

Or you can still renovate your home to be super insulated, energy efficient and comfortable along with reduced energy bills without addition energy generation capabilities.  This is referred to as a Net Zero Ready home.

Can You Still Improve Energy Efficiency But Not Do Net Zero?

Absolutely.  Not every home is a good candidate for Net Zero Reno, and not every homeowner wants to renovate their entire home to a net zero standard.

Perhaps your renovation project only involves renovating a basement, or adding a master bedroom suite home addition above the garage.  These are projects that can incorporate the principles of Net Zero; reducing energy consumption and improving comfort.

Net Zero Renos can also be done stages - tackle a section of the home, or a portion of the reno work every year over the course of several years.

Have More Questions?

Have more questions whether a Net Zero reno is right for you and you home?

If you’re a homeowner in Caledon, Erin, Dufferin County (Mono, Mulmur, Hockley Valley) or surrounding areas in southern Ontario, give us a call.  We would be happy to speak with you.

>> Schedule A Consulation 

Inspire Homes designs, builds and renovates in the Greater Toronto Area and south-central Ontario - including the areas of Caledon, Erin, Mono, Mulmur, Dufferin County, King Township.  Our projects include house additions, whole home renovations, kitchen renovations, basement renovations and any other type of interior and exterior home renovation.