Built Green Single Family Checklist Guide 2012 - January 30 2012

Built Green Canada
Program & Guide

For Single Family
New Construction
Developed By Builders
For Builders
Revised January 1, 2012
Acknowledgments
The 2011 Built Green Program Guide for Single Family New Construction was authored by
Built Green Canada with support from Mindscape Innovations Group Inc. for use by its builder
members. This continues to be an evolutionary document, first based upon the Built Green
Renovation Program & Guide from the US (Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association in
Washington State), representing the combined efforts of Built Green Canada members and
supporters working as a task force, including builders, community representatives, and policy
and design industry experts.
The 2012 Guide has been updated and produced through combined efforts of the members of
the Built Green Canada Standards Committee, listed below, and Vice-President Dave Turnbull.
We thank all who have volunteered their time and expertise.
Derek Satnik, Mindscape Innovations
Dennis Rithaler, Adera Development Corporation
Kyle Anders, Mindscape Innovations
Roger Chayer, TALUS Green Building Consulting
Troy Glasner, E3 Eco Group
Tyler Hermanson, 4 Elements Integrated Design Ltd.
Supported by Natural Resources Canada
Built Green Program & Guide for Single Family New Construction
January 1, 2012 Version 2.0
Page ii
Context and Disclaimer

Built Green Canada has provided this Guide as part of the Built Green Canada program for
single family new construction. It is intended for use by professional, licensed builders and
renovation contractors as an aid to participating in the program. It assumes a certain level of
experience and familiarity with building technology and should not be used by untrained
builders, do-it yourselfers, or consumers.
The Guide is not intended to eliminate or substitute for the builder/renovators own judgment, for
established building and best-practice codes, or for accepted engineering and construction
practices. Each home design may have characteristics that could render any one or more of the
Action Items suggested in this Guide as inappropriate. It is the sole responsibility of the
builder/renovator to choose Action Items that are appropriate to their construction projects.
Further, product information provided in this Guide is not intended to act as or imply a
recommendation for using a particular product in a specific application. Where appropriate,
products should be tested before installation. All products should be used in accordance with
the manufacturers recommendations.
Compliance with or utilization of the items noted in this guide shall not, under any
circumstances, be assumed as a substitute for compliance with local, provincial, and federal
regulations, which must be followed and are not to be superseded by any recommendations
made in the Built Green Program or in this Guide. Every reasonable effort was made to ensure
consistency with the National Building Code standards and with applicable municipalities within
each province at the time of this writing.
Health and safety-related measures described in the Guide are not intended to offer medical
advice or to substitute for professional medical consultation.
The Built Green Program for single family new construction is a certification program and as
such, the builder/renovator must maintain all proof of the selected Checklist Action Items
indicated as having been used on their project(s), and be able to provide such proof upon
demand by Built Green Canada. Built Green Canada does not warrant whether or not a builder
has taken a specific action: this proof must be maintained by the member.
Page iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS.................................................................................................................... II
CONTEXT AND DISCLAIMER .......................................................................................................... III
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. V
HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT........................................................................................................ V
HOW TO GET STARTED ................................................................................................................ VI
BUILT GREEN MEMBERSHIP ......................................................................................................... VI
GUIDE ORGANIZATION ................................................................................................................ VII
HOW TO USE THE CHECKLIST..................................................................................................... VIII
HOW TO ENROLL YOUR PROJECT ................................................................................................. IX
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................... IX
RATING LEVELS........................................................................................................................... IX
PILOT PROJECTS ......................................................................................................................... XI
BUILT GREEN FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW ............................................................................... XI
1. ENVELOPE AND ENERGY SYSTEMS .......................................................................................... 2
2. MATERIALS AND METHODS.................................................................................................... 21
3. INDOOR AIR QUALITY ............................................................................................................ 35
4. VENTILATION ........................................................................................................................ 46
5. WASTE MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................... 50
6. WATER CONSERVATION ........................................................................................................ 57
7. BUSINESS PRACTICE ............................................................................................................ 67
APPENDIX A THIRD PARTY FOREST CERTIFICATIONS
APPENDIX B JOBSITE RECYCLING PLAN
APPENDIX C CONTRACTORS WASTE REDUCTION RESOURCE SHEET
APPENDIX D BUILT GREEN HOMEOWNERS MANUAL GUIDANCE
Page iv
Introduction
This Built Green Program Guide for Single Family New Construction is the first step for Built
Green candidate new homes focusing on Single Family and Row House dwellings. Further
components (such as for non-Part 9 buildings/units) may be developed based on demand.
The Guide is a reference for Builder members enrolled in the Built Green program. The Built
Green Checklist contains more than 170 Action Items to choose from and functions as a menu
of environmentally friendly Action Items to include in your building project. In addition, the Guide
describes what is required to score points for each Action Item, and the benefits that result.
Additional information about the Built Green Renovation Program Checklist Action Items will
be provided through technical seminars and other resources.
For further information about the Built Green Program or related resources, contact Built
Green Canada at: www.builtgreencanada.ca.
Built Green is an industry-driven program. Therefore, consumer education and outreach is
critical to participating in it successfully. Please contact Built Green Canada to find out more
about the marketing tools you can use to promote the program to your clients.
The EnerGuide Rating System (ERS) is an integral part of the Built Green program. The ERS
was developed by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and is used to rate the energyefficiency of the houses thermal envelope and the heating system. Because Built Green
recognizes that to be truly green the house must be energy efficient as a whole, the ERS
becomes a valuable, and mandatory, part of Built Green Program.
New construction projects qualify for Built Green status based on:
whether the home is an eligible single family housing type: detached, semi-detached,
town/row housing, or stacked townhomes;
how many Built Green Checklist points are obtained.
How to use this document

This Guide includes:
1) An outline of the Built Green program, how to become a member and how to enroll your
projects.
2) The Checklist containing more than 170 optional Action Items.
3) A detailed description of what is required to score points for each Action Item on the
Checklist, the benefits that result, and a list of relevant resources.
Page v
How to Get Started

When considering a new construction project for the Built Green program for single family new
construction, first determine whether the project is eligible. If the home is a new single family
home, and is either detached, semi-detached, a row or townhome, or stacked townhome, then it
is eligible. Built Green offers other programs for renovations (the Built Green Renovation
Program, covering small renos up to full 50% additions) and for apartment buildings (Built
Green for Multi-Storey Residential Towers). Please consult www.builtgreencanada.ca for more
information on these other programs.
Then determine what Built Green rating is to be obtained from the four different rating levels,
Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, as described in the Program Requirements (page ix) and
Rating Levels (page ix-x) later in this Guide.
Built Green Membership

Becoming a Built Green Canada member will improve your business. Consumers are
increasingly aware of green building issues and are looking for builders and renovators who can
address their needs. Built Green helps to define your business in the marketplace, gives your
customers added value in terms of quality and performance of their home, and can improve
your bottom line.
As a Built Green Canada member you will have access to a range of useful tools and services
to enhance your business, including:
Resources
The Built Green Program Checklist for Single Family New Construction
The Built Green Program Guide for Single Family New Construction
Training Courses offered across Canada at convenient locations
Marketing Tools
Member Listing on website
Consumer Brochures
Window Decals
Built Green Logo for use in marketing materials
Built Green Canada membership is open to qualified builders, renovators, and support sectors
(eg: suppliers). Visit the website, www.builtgreencanada.ca and click on Apply for Membership
for more information.
In order to become a Certified Built Green Builder, the member must successfully complete
(via at least one staff person from the company) the Built Green Builder Training Course. In
order to enroll new projects in the program, a member must successfully complete the training
course. Training must be maintained by attending an update course minimally every two years.
Page vi
Guide Organization
The Guide is organized into two parts
Program Information (this section),
Built Green Program Guide (next section), which includes brief but specific explanations of
how to implement each Action Item and the benefits that result.
The Built Green Program Guide describes environmentally friendly Action Items arranged in eight
categories:
I.
Envelope & Energy Systems

Built Green recognizes the principles of House as a System, and the reality that construction
in general follows system-thinking processes. This section awards points for construction
methods and products that contribute toward lower energy use and/or use of renewable energy.
II.
Materials and Methods

Built Green respects the value of using environmentally preferable materials, and allocates
points for using environmentally preferable building components for the structure of the home.
This may include alternatives to dimensional lumber, recycled content, wood from sustainably
managed forests, methods of reducing the overall amount of lumber used, or selecting materials
that offer preferable thermal performance.
Finishing materials can often be the most wasteful part of a construction project, and present a
tremendous opportunity to both introduce efficiencies in material use, and also to reduce the
chemical inputs into the built environment. Built Green offers points for finishes used both
inside and outside the home which are longer lasting than typical, which include recycled content,
or which are harvested from third-party certified sustainably managed forests.
III.
Indoor Air Quality

Given that typical Canadians spend nearly 90% of their time indoors; this section focuses on the
quality of air within the finished home. Products listed here include materials that are low in
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), products made from all natural materials, and various air
cleaning and ventilation systems.
IV.
Ventilation
Heating and air conditioning are often integrated with ventilation, but are covered under
Operational Systems in the Built Green program. The Ventilation category instead focuses on
the provision and distribution of fresh air inside the home, including filtrations and heat recovery.
V.
Waste Management
Built Green recognizes that the construction/renovation industry is responsible for a striking
amount of the overall waste generated in Canada, and this section rewards the proper minimizing
and recycling of waste materials during and after construction.
VI.
Water Conservation
As our urban centres grow, water becomes ever more valuable and its proper management
becomes ever more important. Built Green rewards water efficiency and creative re-uses of
water.
Page vii
VII.
Business Practice
Green companies make green products, and green builders make green buildings. Built Green
rewards manufacturers and builders office and business practices, and recognizes environmental
leadership of the builder company as well as recognizing the homes they build.
How to Use the Checklist

For ease of use, this program guide has been written to correspond directly to the Built Green Checklist,
and sections in this guide are numbered to match the various Action Items on the Checklist.
Heres an example Action Item from the Checklist:
Item No.
Pts
2-14
Action Item Description

Reduce dimensional lumber use by using engineered
products for all exterior window and door headers.
In the above example, the action Reduce dimensional lumber use by using engineered products for all
exterior window and door headers is assigned a value of 1 point and is described in Section Two (2)
(Building Materials), Action Item 14. Every item on the Checklist is numbered in a similar way: X-YY,
where X represents the section number, and YY is a sequential Action Item number assigned within the
section. Some sections have more Action Items than other sections, and all Action Items have distinct
point value: some are worth as many as 14 points, most are worth between 1 and 3 points.
The Checklist is a great planning tool to help you develop your Built Green projects.
Review the checklist prior to starting your project, and note Action Items you are interested in
investigating. Refer to the general information in the applicable section of the Guide for discussion of
these Action Items.
When working with a customer, you may wish to use the Checklist as a tool to guide the selection of
specifications for their home. This lengthy list can be intimidating for a customer who is unfamiliar with
the terms and techniques of green building. We recommend that you narrow down your choices before
discussing them with a customer: create standard specifications and upgrade packages to simplify your
selling process, and keep the Built Green Checklist as an internal resource for you. The customer will
more readily appreciate your green homes if you create a customized, shorter list of standard green
features (taken from the Built Green Checklist) which you will be including, and then you can offer
additional upgrades from the Built Green Checklist however you deem best and easiest to communicate.
When your project checklist is finalized, you can enroll the home with the program as described below.
Page viii
How to Enroll Your Project

As a member of Built Green Canada you can visit use the website to enroll your projects online
with the Built Green Canada database. The enrolment will need to include the detailed
information about the project (civic address) and a completed checklist (to be uploaded to the
database). Once your enrolment fee has been paid and your enrolment files have successfully
uploaded, you will have access to your project through the database and will be able to track its
approval status, or wait to be notified. Other project enrolment documentation may be required
(such as a pdf copy of the house plans): see the database for details.
Use the checklist prior to construction to determine which features to include in your project.
This is a useful tool to engage your client in selecting the quality and performance features of
their home; you might decide on achieving a certain rating or focus on the customers key
interest areas, e.g. energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Alternately, you might develop
packages of Action Items that you offer as Standard, or as upgrades.
When construction is complete, the online database can be used to sign-off, acknowledging
that all Action Items selected on the Checklist have been completed to the best of your
knowledge and that all back up documents are being maintained in-house to be provided upon
request by Built Green Canada.
Upon sign-off Built Green Canada will review the project file submission and issue the approval
and corresponding labels directly to the builder member.
Program Requirements
For ease of use, the Built Green Program Checklist coordinates directly with the Guide
sections. There are no mandatory points or Action Items within the Built Green Program for
single new family construction, but there are minimum compliance targets associated with each
Rating Level, as described below. Users are encouraged to take full advantage of the flexibility
offered by the Built Green Checklist, and to select items which best suit their standard
construction practice, while enjoying and promoting the environmental benefits that the Built
Green Checklist will help capture and celebrate.
Rating Levels
Ratings are based on the number of points gained by implementing various Action Items. Four
different certification levels are possible, and are named after well recognized and progressively
more valuable metals as described below:
Page ix
Bronze
Satisfy the following requirements:
Home is EnerGuide rated
Minimum 25 Points in Envelope & Energy Section of Checklist
Earn a total of 90 points from the Built Green Checklist, and meet the minimum point
thresholds for each point category.
Silver
Earn a total of 100 points from the Built Green checklist, and meet the minimum point
Gold
Platinum
All platinum homes must use item 4-7 Ventilation installed according to CSA Standard
F326.
The figure below presents a visual depiction of the various levels of Built Green certification: it
lists the eight point categories, the minimum points required and maximum points available in
each, and the requirements of each certification level.
Page x
Built Green Level (For Detached, Semi- Detached & Row House Units)
Checklist Categories
Envelope and Energy
I. Systems
II. Materials and Methods
III. Indoor Air Quality
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Min.
25*/141
Min.
20/105
Min.
15/42
IV. Ventilation
Min. 5/15
V. Waste Management
VI. Water Conservation
Min. 7/25
Min.
10/61
VII. Business Practices
Min. 8/47
90
Points
100
Points
115
Points
140
Points
*Note: the
minimum
point
requirement
for the EE
category
increases
to 30 points
for Silver,
35 for Gold,
and 40 for
Platinum.
Pilot Projects
As part of developing the Built Green Program, Built Green Canada will spotlight several
successful case studies of Built Green projects. These Pilot Projects may be summarized in
press releases, reports, and/or on the www.builtgreencanada.ca website, and will provide a high
profile to participating members.
Built Green for Today and Tomorrow

The Built Green Program has been designed by builders, for builders, to set standards of
excellence in all communities. It focuses on actions that can make a significant impact and are
readily doable today. When effectively applied to an individual building project, the program is
expected to make a positive difference for the environment, and for home owners. To ensure
that Built Green certification is meaningful, it is important that each participant who enrolls a
project accurately completes the checklist. Please ensure that all required steps have been
performed before taking credit for an Action Item and that you are able to provide proof of each
item selected.
We recognize that building practices change and that new products are continually being
introduced into the market, so the Built Green programs materials will be updated from time to
time in response to the evolving industry. Similarly, experience and skill at implementing new
practices, and market demand and acceptance of those practices tend to increase in parallel,
resulting in greater availability and lower cost of green features. Points thresholds in the Built
Page xi
Green programs will likely rise over time: a home built to Gold standards today might instead
earn Silver certification several years from now.
To help shape the future of Built Green as it evolves, please join the membership, contribute
your expertise to the committees, participate in public reviews, and especially share your
experiences in using the program on site. Built Green Canada is proud of the programs we
provide, and we look forward to creating a more sustainable future together.
Page xii
Built Green
Program Guide for
Single Family New
Construction
Page 1
1. ENVELOPE AND ENERGY SYSTEMS

Minimum 25 Points Required
Built Green recognizes the principles of House as a System, and the reality that construction
in general follows system-thinking processes. Builders are well accustomed to working on a
tight schedule, and to carefully coordinating trade contractors to ensure that construction
proceeds with minimal disruptions or interruptions. When the house is built with system-thinking
in mind, then the same thoughts that typically result in a well coordinated construction site are
pulled back into the design process: the design and construction team will invest an appropriate
effort coordinating their various activities to optimize the building as a whole. The envelope
design will have considered various strategies for managing air leakage. The architectural uses
of the various spaces in the building will be used to determine appropriate zoning. Mechanical
systems will be sized and zoned to serve the actual heating need of the building and its various
spaces. All designers and trades will have a common understanding of how best to ensure the
home works as it should, and is comfortable and enjoyable for the home owner.
This section awards points for construction methods and types of products that contribute
toward lower energy use and/or use of renewable energy
1-1
EnerGuide modelling: As an alternate to using the remaining Action Items

and Points noted hereafter in section I (ENVELOPE AND ENERGY SYSTEMS),
you may model the performance of your home with the EnerGuide Rating
System. Points scored are based on your EnerGuide score: 5 points for each
EnerGuide number above 75. (eg: EnerGuide 80 earns 25 points and meets
the minimum requirement for this category, EnerGuide 85 would earn 50
points, etc), up to a maximum of 125 points for an EnerGuide score of 100.
NOTE: This item is exclusive to the rest of this category: points may be
earned here only if no points are earned in any other items in the rest of
the ENVELOPE AND ENERGY SYSTEMS sections.
One of the changes made to the Built Green Program after January, 2012 was the removing of
minimum EnerGuide levels required for the different Built Green Seals. This does not mean
that the Built Green Program thinks that energy efficiency is unimportant. On the contrary,
Built Green Canada recognizes the importance of energy efficiency as an integral component of
a total sustainable development program. Performance of the home must still be measured
under the program and we still use the EnerGuide Program to do this. We feel that the
consumer deserves to know how well their home performs and the EnerGuide Label is the best
way we have found to accomplish this.
The EnerGuide Rating System is a nationally recognized and government endorsed method of
calculating your home's energy performance. An EnerGuide score of 70 or less represents older
homes which are leaky, or tend to have less insulation. Canadian building codes are
January 1, 2012, Version 2.0
Page 2
I. Envelope & Energy Systems
(Min. 25 points)
increasingly requiring a minimum performance of EnerGuide 80, and a home which uses no
more energy than it produces will score 100 on the EnerGuide scale. It is possible to have a
negative score on this item, or to score bonus points for EnerGuide values above 100.
NOTE: Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is in the process of changing the EnerGuide Rating
System, and Built Green Canada will be updating it's certification programs to reflect the new
changes once they are released by NRCan, tentatively in early 2012.
This item is to be used if your EnerGuide rating will garner more points than if you filled out the
rest of the section. You receive 5 points for every EnerGuide point over 75. An Energuide score
of 80 will garner 25 points, an 81-30 points and so on.
In this case, the builder will fill out the checklist when the home is finished and the EnerGuide
rating established. If the EnerGuide rating is say, 82, then 35 points would be awarded in this
item. The builder then sees how many points they would be eligible for if they filled out the rest
of the section. If the number is less, then the builder would just fill in item 1-1 and leave the rest
of the section blank. If the builder has more than 35 points (in this case) in the rest of the
section, they then leave item 1-1 blank.
It is worthy to note that as the Built Green Seal level goes up, so does the minimum point level
for this section. 25 points are required for the Built Green Bronze level, 30 for Silver, 35 for
Gold and 40 for Platinum.
The verification for this item is the EnerGuide label provided by your Service Organization.
1-2
Install additional rigid insulation on exterior of above grade walls, above

code required framing cavity insulation 1.5" (1 point) or 2" (3 points).
Exterior insulation can greatly reduce thermal bridging, improving thermal performance.
Care must be taken to ensure the wall cavity remains permeable to the outside and foam
must be fully protected from UV damage during and after construction. Refer to CHBA
Builder Manual or Local Code Officials for additional information. Siding installers must
take care to hit studs and use appropriately sized fasteners.
Insulation values should be reflected in the energy model. For verification, the builder
should provide invoices detailing the product used and pictures taken from the site.
1-3 Replace exterior wood sheathing with insulating sheathing and structurally
required metal bracing (2 points).
Using less material when possible saves the forest reserves. Insulating the studs
reduces thermal bridging. If the insulating sheathing is a Type II vapour barrier, a Type I
Page 3
(Min. 25 points)
vapour barrier should be used on the warm side of the insulation. If it is a Type I vapour
barrier it should be installed with 1/8 gap around edges to enable the wall cavity to dry
out if it should get wet.
Any environmentally preferable products used may be subject to audit during the
certification review process. The builder should keep a copy of all material spec and data
sheets as well as supplier invoices for review upon request.
1-4
Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) system used for foundation walls (2 points).
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) are hollow building elements made of plastic foam that
are assembled, often like building blocks, into the shape of a buildings exterior walls.
The ICFs are filled with reinforced concrete to create structural walls. Unlike traditional
forms, the ICFs are left in place to provide insulation and a surface for finishes. No
additional lumber is required to attach drywall or electrical plug outlets. In the wintertime,
concrete is insulated already, potentially extending the building season, and requiring
much less concern with freezing.
Environmentally, ICFs can be made with high percentages of recycled content in the
concrete, which can typically be created locally, and the insulation is a bonus.
Any environmentally preferable products used may be subject to audit during the
certification review process. The builder should keep a copy of all material spec and data
sheets as well as supplier invoices for review upon request.
1-5
Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) system used for 75% of above grade house
walls (3 points).
See description in 1-4. Use of modest a amount of stick framing is allowable within this
point, i.e. at bay windows, pony walls and walk out walls. An ICF wall is inherently
stronger than a stick-framed wall, and will provide more protection in a high-wind
situation. They tend to be more air-tight and quiet than conventional construction.
Per 1-4 above, any environmentally preferable products used may be subject to audit
during the certification review process. The builder should keep a copy of all material
spec and data sheets available for review upon request.
Page 4

1-6
(Min. 25 points)
Structural insulated panel system used for at least 75% of roof/ceiling (4

points), 75% of walls (6 points), exposed floors (2 points) and/or
foundation (2 points).
Factory built Structurally Insulating Panels (SIPS) can reduce thermal migration and
control air leakage, keeping heating and cooling costs to a minimum and using less
framing material compared to a conventionally framed wall.
For verification, the builder should be prepared to provide a set of drawings showing the
wall detailing and the location, spans and sizes of various components.
1-7
Install site applied spray foam to insulate entire rim joist area (1 point),
exposed floors (2 points) and/or house walls (4 points) and/or entire roof (3
points).
Spray-applied insulations provide excellent air sealing and insulation value. Spray foam
must be fire protected and some types cannot come in contact with heating ducts or
lines. Some foams meet requirements for vapor barriers. Consult the supplier or
installer for further information. The main benefit to spray foaming is in air sealing. Once
the foam layer is thick enough to qualify as an air barrier (varies with different types of
foam) batt insulation can be installed to minimize cost. Please note that some foams act
as moisture retarders as well and that the foam layer in those cases should be thick
enough to ensure that condensation does not form on the surface of the foam.
spec and data sheets and supplier invoices for review upon request.
1-8
Install additional exterior insulations system on exterior of foundation, R

Value of 7.5 (1 point), R10 (2 points), or R15 (3 points), above code required
interior insulation level.
Insulation on the outside of a foundation system reduced energy loss. This is particularly
useful where there are party walls in the basement, as the foam acts to reduce the
effects of that thermal bridge.
Insulation values should be reflected in the energy model.
Page 5

1-9
(Min. 25 points)
Install R5 (1 point), R8 (2 points) or R12 (3 points) above building code

required under entire basement slab.
Insulation installed under the basement slab will reduce the downward heat transfer into
the ground below the slab, especially when hydronic in-slab heating is installed.
Insulation under the slab can reduce temperature swings in the heated space and
respond quicker to new changes in thermostat settings. This insulation is particularly
useful if the water table is high, as that tends to draw heat more readily from the
basement.
Insulation values should be reflected in the energy model.
1-10 Use of insulated headers / lintels (either manufactured or site built

insulated headers) with minimum insulation value of R10 (1 point).
Headers can either be insulated on site or can be a pre-manufactured product (often
insulated with a foamed plastic). A conventionally-built wall has an overall effective Rvalue that can be significantly lower than the R-value of the insulation that is placed
between the studs, because nearly a quarter of a typical walls cross-sectional surface
area is actually composed of wood, with the remaining three quarters being
insulation/wood/ect. An R20 batt in a 2x6 wall will often result in a effective R17 net
value for the whole wall if the insulation is installed perfectly. Insulating lintels brings the
effective R-value of the wall up and reduces cold spots.
wall detailing and the location, spans and sizes of various components,
1-11 Install manufactured insulated rim/band joist, or build on-site header wrap
detail for continuous air barrier (1 point).
Rim and band joists can either be insulated on site or can be pre-manufactured (often
insulated with a foamed insulation). Wood to wood connections can be a large source of
air leakage in a home, unless protected by an air barrier material that is properly sealed
to additional air barrier materials, creating an effective barrier to air throughout the whole
house. Header wraps should be overlapped at corners, with a diagonal bead of
acoustical sealant being used to ensure that they form a continuous air barrier.
Page 6
(Min. 25 points)
1-12 Advanced sealing package, non-HCFC expanding foam around window and
door openings and all exterior wall penetrations (2 points).
Controls air leakage and keeps heating and cooling costs to a minimum. Be sure to
choose a foam that will not put undue pressure on the window or door and bow the
frame.
spec and data sheets (eg: demonstrating recycled content) available for review upon
request.
1-13 All sill plates sealed with foam sill gaskets or a continuous sandwiched bead
of acoustical sealant (1 point).
Proper attention to air sealing helps control air leakage and keeps heating and cooling
costs to a minimum. Air sealing measures are one of the most cost-effective methods to
use for energy efficiency.
request.
1-14 Install weather-stripped and insulated (R15 minimum) manufactured

interior attic hatch (1 point), or no interior attic access (1 point)
The attic hatch can be a major source of air leakage into the attic, and is typically
surrounded by incomplete insulation, leading to significant thermal bridging and potential
attic issues.
The CEA will need to include this in his/her model.
1-15 Attached garage overhead door is insulated with R8 to R12 (1 point) or

greater than R12 (2 points).
Refer to items 1-4 and 2-7 for verification requirements
Page 7
(Min. 25 points)
1-16 Attached garage is fully insulated (1 point).

A fully insulated garage serves an additional insulating capacity for any walls or exposed
floors encapsulated by it, further slowing heat loss through those walls and floors. This
will be reflected in the energy model.
1-17 Builder uses passive solar design shading devices for home. Permanent
horizontal and/or vertical exterior shading devices for glazing (2 points), computer
controlled devices (additional 1 point).
A passive device will reduce the air conditioning load in the summer time and reduce
homeowner complaints about overheating. Controlling the device with a computer helps
ensure that it is mostly used when it is required, increasing savings further.
1-18 All windows in home are ENERGY STAR labeled or equivalent for the
climatic zone of home (1 point), or for a higher zone (eg. zone C windows
on a home in zone B) (2 Points)
ENERGY STAR labeled windows save energy by insulating better than standard
windows, making the home more comfortable all year round, reducing outside noise and
resulting in less condensation forming on the window in cold weather. Due to the nature
of energy ratings (ER) and their requirement for ENERGY STAR qualification, the air
tightness of the window plays a part as well, helping increase the air tightness of a
home. Fixed windows are inherently more air tight than hinged windows, which in turn
are inherently more air tight than slider windows.
Verification is the same as in Action Item 1-34.
1-19 Install doors (including patio/sliding doors) which are a minimum R-6 (RSI
1.06)
Doors and windows cannot insulate as effectively as a wall, and therefore do not affect the
energy performance of a house to nearly the same extent as improving the wall would, but still,
Page 8
(Min. 25 points)
doors have an impact. R6 doors (or better) might be fibreglass or steel with insulated cores and
various internal thermal breaks, and are preferable to wood or hollow core doors which are
essentially uninsulated, and are much less durable.
For audit, please have suppliers invoices available.
1-20
Install a zoned heating system. Either, from a single HVAC source utilizing
two or more, programmable, thermostatically controlled zones or zoning
separate systems through separate programmable thermostats. (2 Zones =
2 points, 3 = 3 points, 4 = 4 points)
Zoned space conditioning systems offer more precise control over the energy used to
condition each zone within the space. Efficiency can be significantly improved by only
heating or cooling when occupants are present and by only heating/cooling to the exact
desired temperature. Different desired temperatures can be set in each room or space
and an individual zone can be turned off when not occupied. This type of system can
result in a dramatic reduction of energy consumption and operating costs.
It is also possible for this type of system to use more energy if there is no insulation or
air barriers between the zones as one zone may be heating while another is cooling.
This is the first example on the Built Green checklist of an Action Item that offers
synergies with other items on the Checklist: This Action Item awards points for having
zones, not for insulation strategies, but it is worth noting that careful attention should be
paid to how the zones are physically separated. In all cases, having a properly sized and
balanced system will increase homeowner comfort, optimize system efficiency and
reduce homeowner complaints.
Should this item be audited during the Built Green certification review process, the
builder should be prepared to produce design documentation (drawings and the Hot2000
energy model) demonstrating the location and theoretical performance of the zones as
designed.
1-21 Install high efficiency, sealed combustion heating appliance, with a

minimum 94% AFUE (2 points), 95% AFUE (3 points) or 96% AFUE and
above (4 points).
This Action Item does NOT apply to electrically heated homes.
High efficiency furnaces or boilers, such as condensing systems, reduce energy
consumption and corresponding fossil fuel reliance. Because AFUE (Annual Fuel
Utilization Efficiency) ratings account for efficiency losses during start-up and cool down,
Page 9
(Min. 25 points)
they tend to be lower than other performance ratings, and are arguably more
meaningful.
It should be noted that well sealed homes can experience challenges with efficient
combustion systems introducing back-drafting if not designed carefully: a two pipe
system is recommended for air tight homes to avoid any potential problems with
combustion efficiency due to depressurization of the home from exhaust appliances.
Sizing a furnace properly will reduce costs not only on the furnace itself, but on the size
of the ducting that needs to be installed to accommodate the air-flow.
This Action Item will be included in the energy model.
1-22 Install ground or water source heat pumps (10 points) or air source heat
pumps (6 points) for heating and cooling.
Heat pumps can significantly reduce primary energy use for building heating and
cooling. The renewable heat component displaces the need for primary fuels, which,
when burned, produce greenhouse gases and contribute to global climate change. Every
technology has its place, so please note that cool and cold climate heat pump systems
vary in their efficiency, and may not be able to run optimally if sized to service the
buildings peak heating or cooling load (which occurs relatively few days per year)
without any supplemental heating/cooling from another source. Cold climate heat pump
systems are often not as efficient as boiler/furnace natural gas systems.
Conventional air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are less expensive to install than their
ground or water source equivalents, because air source systems do not require heat
exchange loops or drilling. However, ASHPs decrease in heating capacity and efficiency
as the outside air gets colder, so there is a tradeoff between cost and performance.
There are several manufacturers of ASHPs who are increasingly able to produce coldweather systems that can maintain their heating output as the outdoor air temperature
drops, and at increasingly affordable prices. Heat pump system prices are expected to
continue to drop with time, and ASHPs are becoming increasingly competitive.
Ground source heat pumps can have their heat exchange loop systems installed either
horizontally (~6ft below the surface) or vertically (in borehole shafts between 100-300ft
deep). If vertical boreholes are used (typically only because of space constraints) and
the boreholes do not go through watery layers, then the system should be designed as
much as is reasonably possible to balance the amount of winter heating drawn from the
ground with the amount of summer cooling (heat rejection back into the ground).
Otherwise the thermal capacity of the local earth will change over time, and it is possible
to cool a whole area of ground such that the heat pump will experience increasing
difficulty in extracting sufficient heat from the earth, and the performance of the system
will degrade over time.
Water source heat pumps should have a reliable flow of water available to ensure a
predictable heating and cooling capacity.
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(Min. 25 points)
For more information on ground source heat pumps, refer to the Canadian
Geoexchange Coalitions website at http://www.geo-exchange.ca/.
For verification, building teams should include appropriate detail on their heating and
cooling systems in their energy model.
1-23 Programmable thermostat with dual set back & continuous fan setting (1
point).
A set back thermostat regulates the heating/cooling system to provide optimum comfort
when the house is occupied and to conserve energy when it is not. Using the fan
continuously will mix the air in the home and (ie: helping ensure that fresh air reaches all
corners of the house) and make it more comfortable. Continuous fan use will however
require power, so ensure this is properly reflected in your energy model. Using an ECM
motor for fans that run continuously is a way to save on electrical energy usage (see
Action Item 1-24 below).
If audited on this item, provide a copy of the spec on which thermostat was involved, and
a digital photograph showing where it was installed on site.
1-24 Install HVAC appliance with variable speed fan (ECM) (1 point).
A variable speed fan motor (ECM or DC powered) is designed to vary its speed based
on the homes heating and air-conditioning requirements. Working in conjunction with
the thermostat, it keeps the appropriate air temperature circulating through the home,
reducing temperature variances in the home. It also provides greater air circulation and
filtration, better temperature distribution, humidity control, higher efficiency and quiet
performance. The savings from this motor are most pronounced at slow speeds, though
even at moderate and high speeds there are still savings to be had. Using an ECM
motor will ensure that a furnace runs at optimal settings, as the ECM motor will
compensate for the extra pressure loss that a dirty air filter will give to the system.
If audited on this item, provide a copy of the spec on the ECM motor.
1-25 Install sealed combustion 2-pipe tank system (2 points), or condensing

DHW tank system (3 points)
This Action Item is intended to reward the use of a domestic hot water (DHW) heater
that is direct vented with a closed combustion system. All combustion air is taken directly
from outdoors. A direct system utilizes a co-axial vent pipe (a pipe inside another pipe)
to draw combustion air in through the outer pipe, and exhaust the combustion byproducts out through the inner pipe. A power vented heater exhausts air out of the
building via a positive exhaust during main burner operation. Both systems eliminate the
Page 11
(Min. 25 points)
need for conventional chimneys or flue systems. A two-pipe system requires only one
penetration of the building envelope, and therefore helps minimize the number of
potential additional air leakage locations: the whole system should be sealed to the
outdoors. A traditional power-vented heater (not a 2-pipe system) with a single fan would
instead present an additional air-leakage location.
Alternatively, a condensing hot water tank has more heat exchanger surface area
exposure to the combustion gases to provide higher combustion efficiencies. If you
utilize a combination system where the hot water tank provides the main source of heat
for the home, you would likely want to install a condensing hot water heater.
For verification during the Built Green certification audit, the DHW system will be
included in the energy model.
1-26 Install ENERGY STAR rated tankless hot water heater (EF between
0.70 and 0.85 for 2 points, EF>0.85 for 3 points).
Traditional water heaters include a tank where heated water is stored and kept warm
and ready for use. This means that the stored water will lose heat while waiting to be
used (this is called standby heat loss), and it must periodically be warmed even while
not in use in order to be ready when the user presents a demand load.
A tankless water heater does not have a storage tank to keep warm all day, or a pilot
light: it creates heat only when hot water is being used. This eliminates standby heat
loss, and the resulting higher efficiency will save on utility costs. The lack of a storage
tank also offers the benefit of an unlimited supply of real-time heated water, which
indeed can serve as a double-edged sword: the provision of unlimited hot water can in
some cases result in the occupants adjusting their habits and use more hot water than
they previously did. It is also worth noting that many tankless water heaters have a
minimum flow rate that must be exceeded before they will turn on the instantaneous
heater, which means that as homes become more water efficient and trend towards
lower flow showerheads and such, there is a point at which the heater will not even turn
on. This problem can be resolved either by purchasing a tankless unit that has an
adjustable control for minimum flow, or by adding a pony tank (less than 10 Gal) with a
recirculation pump. If a pony tank is provided, it should be installed such that hot water
flows from the pony tank to the fixture, and cold water enters the pony tank. A thermostat
on the tank would control a recirculating pump which moves water rapidly through the
tankless heater (faster than its minimum flow rate) thus activating the instantaneous
heater and pumping the heated water right back into the pony tank. The smaller tank still
offers the benefit of reduced standby losses, and the pony tank can be insulated to
reduce standby loses even further.
Verification is the same as in Action Item 1-25 above.
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(Min. 25 points)
1-27 Install high efficiency boiler domestic hot water system (AFUE 0.92-0.94 for
2 points, 0.95 or better 3 points).
A typical hot water heater combustion efficiency is 78%-82%, though the tank losses can
result in an energy factor (EF) between 0.57 to 0.67. Having a higher combustion
efficiency results in a superior EF even when using the same storage tank.
1-28 Install heat pump based DHW heating system (ground, water or air
sourced. EF <2 for 2 points EF>2 for 3 points) to supply a minimum of 35%
of the peak DHW load and 70% of the total DHW load.
A Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) system uses the earths constant temperature to
heat water for domestic uses in the home.
It is noteworthy that some GSHP units have a desuperheater, which in many cases will
only produce a high coefficient of performance (COP) when it is used to heat a separate
pre-heat tank, rather than to heat the primary hot water tank. In other words, if you have
a gas or electric tank, and want to capture any excess spare heat from your GSHP, such
as in the summertime when you are trying to cool the home, a separate water tank for
the heat pump will enable it to warm cold water up before that same water is supplied
into the main water heater tank, where it will be or boosted (by gas or electric heat for
example) up to the desired final temperature.
1-29 Insulate the hot water lines with flexible pipe insulation, first six feet from
hot water tank, including heat trap (1 point) or all hot water lines (2 points)
This measure reduces distribution losses, preventing heat from being lost to the
surroundings as it circulates through the homes piping to where it is needed. It also
reduces standby heat loss from the water tank. The tank continuously heats the adjacent
piping and the water in it even when no water is being used. The adjacent water pipes
act as cooling rods. Insulating them reduces the rate of heat loss. Minimizing the heat
loss in the water line will also decrease the initial water wasted by delivering hot water
faster. Insulation type for hot water lines should be at minimum 3/8 thick foam, applied
continuously to a minimum of three feet from the hot water tank.
For verification, the Built Green evaluation team will confirm visually on-site.
Page 13
(Min. 25 points)
1-30 Install drain water heat recovery units on the main drainage stack. 3foot stack (1 point), 6 foot stack that is insulated (2 points)
Drain water heat recovery (DWHR) units transfer the heat from wastewater to incoming
water. This reduces the amount of energy needed for the DHW system. In a typical
household, showers account for ~60% of hot water needs. By recovering energy from
shower water the effective energy factor of the hot water heater can be greatly
increased, and due to the pre-heating of the cold incoming water, it is quite possible to
have unlimited hot shower water, as most gas water heaters will be able to provide
enough BTUs to heat the entering luke-warm water to a comfortable showering
temperature. As a result, the size of the DHW tank can typically be decreased when
used in combination with DWHR. Note: do not decrease tank size if large bathtubs or
corner tubs are installed, as the drain water heat recovery only works when water is both
drawn and drained simultaneously.
Verification is the same as in Action Item 1-25above.
1-31 All gas fireplaces are sealed and have electronic ignition, or no combustionbased fireplaces are provided(2 points).
Sealed combustion fireplaces involve a double-walled special vent supplied by the
manufacturer that normally vents through a sidewall in a horizontal position. The unit
must be Sealed Combustion, meaning that combustion gasses cannot enter the home
even if the home becomes depressurized. A pilot light can consume a large amount of
energy over the course of a year, and if it is left on all the time, which happens in many
homes, it will also add to the air conditioning load of the home. As a reference, the main
modeling tool used by the federal government for residential housing estimates the
energy lost by a pilot light to be 6.2GJ/yr, which is about 7% of the average homes total
energy consumption. Electronic ignition systems eliminate the pilot light.
1-32 Install an EPA or CSA certified high-efficiency wood stove or pellet stove
with a minimum efficiency of 72% (1 point) or 85% (2 points).
State-of-the-art wood and pellet stoves are among the cleanest burning heating
appliances and deliver a high overall efficiency. EPA and CSA certified stoves ensure
reduced emissions. Particulate material from a wood fire tends to be particularly irritating
to humans, and the certified stoves greatly reduce those particles. Catalytic wood stoves
will reduce particulate matter even further.
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(Min. 25 points)
1-33 Install fireplace fan kit to circulate warm air into room (1 point per fan,
maximum 2 points).
A fan kit allows the heat generated by a fireplace to be transferred into the home more
effectively.
For verification, provide a spec sheet describing the fireplace and fan kit, and provide a
photograph of the fan unit where installed on site.
1-34 A properly supported and wired ceiling fan and a wall mounted switch
roughed in for future installation (1 point).
This point is intended to allow for future temperature equalization should the occupants
find themselves uncomfortably warm but dont wish to run air conditioning, or would like
to avoid cooling their home too much. Some also find the white noise from a fan helps
them sleep at night.
Verification of this item includes a visual inspection (or photo) and provision of the spec
on the ceiling fan unit.
1-35 Electric range is Convection based (1 point).

Ranges that have convection are better insulated and sealed than those that are not,
and perform at or less than 500 kWh (520 kWh for convection) when rated by
EnerGuide. A convection oven can cook food more quickly and using a lower oven
temperature to do so, reducing energy consumption.
If this item is audited during the certification process, then provide a spec. sheet on the
appliance, and either photo documentation.
1-36 Refrigerator is an ENERGY STAR labeled product (2 points).

An ENERGY STAR label for refrigerator indicates the product has met strict
requirements to reduce energy consumption. It is at least 20% more efficient than the
minimum guidelines.
Verification is the same as 1-35 above (provide spec and photo or inspect on site).
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(Min. 25 points)
1-37 Dishwasher is an ENERGY STAR labeled product (1 point).

An ENERGY STAR label for a dishwasher indicates the product has met strict
requirements to reduce energy consumption. The washer must also meet strict water
usage guidelines, reducing the amount of water used.
1-38 Clothes washer or combo washer dryer is an ENERGY STAR labeled product
(1 point).
An ENERGY STAR label for a clothes washer indicates the product has met strict
requirements to reduce energy consumption as well as water usage.
1-39 Clothes dryer have an energy performance "auto sense" dry setting, which
utilizes a humidity sensor for energy efficiency (1 point).
Heating air to pass it through clothes and then dump it outside uses a lot of energy. A
dryer that can sense the humidity of the clothes will shut off sooner, increasing its
lifespan, and will use less energy.
1-40 Home is built "Solar Ready" following either Natural Resources Canada or
Canadian Solar Industries Association (CANSIA) guidelines (3 points).
Designing a home to be solar ready will make the addition of panels in the future much
easier. Contact the Canadian Solar Industries Association for more info: www.cansia.ca.
Eliminating a potentially large cost at the construction stage can encourage homeowners
to install panels later on. By making the home Solar Ready, the builder is seen as
forward-thinking, and homeowners who might never have considered solar power will be
introduced to the concept in a non-threatening and helpful way.
For verification, either use the checklist provided by Natural Resources Canadas Office
of Energy Efficiency (oee.gov.gc.ca), or provide the detailed solar ready design (which
should comply with the technical guidelines posted online by CanSIA at
http://www.cansia.ca/government-regulatory-issues/provincial/solar-ready, and should
be visually verified on site by the CEA.
Page 16
(Min. 25 points)
1-41 Install active solar hot water heating system. Sized for 30% of DHW load
(5 points), 50% (6 points), 80% (8 Points)
Solar hot water is one of the most cost-effective ways to get power from the sun. Be
careful when providing a system that it will not have any problems with freezing
temperatures or with stagnation. Stagnation occurs when the hot water tank is fully
heated, no water is drawn, and the sun is overheating the panels. This could happen
during summer vacations (ie: when the occupants are away for an extended period of
sunshine), or if the system is oversized. Overheating the panels can potentially have
negative impacts on the life span of the heating fluid, sometimes causing the fluid to
break down and acidify, potentially corroding system seals and causing premature
failure of piping, pumps, or the panels themselves. Checking that the planned system is
CSA certified helps to ensure safety and performance, but is not a substitute for proper
design: solar water heating systems should either include protection against
overheating, and should not be oversized.
For optimal success, hire a professional installer or an Engineer using modeling software
such as RETScreen (or better) to size the system properly. Once designed, the system
capacity shall be provided to the Built Green Energy Advisor (the CEA) at the time of
modeling (ie: for inclusion in the energy model) and will need to be verified on site.
1-42 Install photovoltaic electrical generation system. Sized for 30% of electric
load (4 points), 50% (6 points), 80% (8 points).
A photovoltaic system will greatly reduce the reliance on fossil fuel energy and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are more sensitive than solar
water heating is to orientation: care should be taken to ensure a good southern exposure
with minimal obstruction or shading, especially during mid summer days. Refer to
www.cansia.ca for more detail and for their Solar Ready guidelines.
As in 1-21 above, hire a professional installer or Engineer using modeling software such
as RETScreen (or better) to design the system properly. Once designed, the system
capacity shall be provided to the Built Green Energy Advisor (the CEA) at the time of
modeling (ie: for inclusion in the energy model) and will need to be verified on site.
1-43 Minimum 25% (1 point), 50% (2 points), 75% (3 points) or 100% (4 points)
of interior and exterior light fixtures are fluorescent, compact fluorescent
light (CFL) bulbs or LEDs.
Fluorescent, compact fluorescent and LED lamps use >50% less energy than standard
lamps and last up to ten times longer. Prices continue to drop as well. LED bulbs are
recommended for lighting of accent areas such as wall paintings or other decorative
Page 17
(Min. 25 points)
features, or for outdoor areas (because they will not be negatively impacted by cold
weather).
Note that CFLs and LEDs have integrated ballasts: little electronic controllers that
modulate the properties of the bulb to create the right light output. Some ballasts cannot
be installed upside down since heat from the bulb itself will rise to the ballast, literally
cooking the ballast until it fails, especially in situations like recessed lighting or pot-lights.
In all cases, consult manufacturers directions and ensure that product is being used as
it was designed and intended to be.
1-44 Air tight, insulation contact-rated recessed lights are used in all insulated
ceilings, or insulated ceilings have no recessed lights (1 point).
Lights (or anything else for that matter) that are recessed into a ceiling create a few
immediate challenges: they add a hole to an otherwise perfectly good air barrier (the
ceiling), they back into the insulation, and they create a leakage path for air to flow
through the ceiling and insulation out of the house. Holes like this are worth sealing
properly.
Sealing up light penetrations properly will prevent heated air from escaping up through
the ceiling. Airtight light fixtures lead to a more airtight, energy efficient home. Due to the
stack effect, penetrations in the ceiling will generally be leaking air into the space above
over the entire heating season. A significant amount of moisture can travel into that
space and lead to durability issues and springtime leaking as all the frost melts
Page 18
(Min. 20 points)
1-45 Install interior motion sensor light switches (1 point per switch to a
maximum of 3 points).
Motion sensor switches prevent lights from remaining on in rooms that are unoccupied.
This obviously helps reduce electricity consumption.
Switches on closet doors and pantries are acceptable and may be counted towards this
point.
Ceiling mounted sensors generally have fewer occupant sensing difficulties than wallmounted ones.
Verification on this item includes visual inspection or photos of installed locations).
1-46 Install central, computerized control system capable of unified automation

control of lighting loads (2 points)
Lighting and automation control systems prevent lights from remaining on in rooms
without occupants, and they help optimize lighting usage schedules to match occupant
behaviour trends (eg: all lights off at bed-time).
Verification of this item includes visual demonstration on site.
1-47 Install central All Off switch that disables all non-essential electrical loads
in the home (2 Points)
10-20% of the electricity used in the average home comes from parasitic loads: little
indicator lights and circuit warmers that consume power even when not in use. "All-off"
switches can be used to turn non-essential loads off by disabling half of the electrical
panel all at once. Non-essential loads include microwaves, small kitchen appliances,
televisions and entertainment, lighting circuits, and miscellaneous plug loads. Essential
loads which should NOT be disabled include fridges, freezers, sump pumps, furnace
fans, bedroom alarm clocks (one outlet per room), fire and CO detectors, doorbells, and
Page 19
(Min. 20 points)
hallway/egress lighting. All-off circuits should be wired as three-way circuits, with one
switch near the main entrance, and one near the master bedroom.
1-48 Install home automation that provides a Vacation or Away mode which
(for 1 point each) turns off an All Off circuit, turns odd the domestic hot
water supply, or sets back a thermostat. One additional point may be
earned if this automation can be controlled from a smart phone or via the
internet. (up to 4 points total)
Lighting and automation control systems enable the home owner to minimize energy use
when they are not in the home. Remote access to that automation (via Smart Phones
and the internet) make it more convenient for the home owner to access and use this
automation, and enable them to do things like turn the house off after they leave (if they
forgot), or turn the house back on when they are returning home (eg: after they get back
from vacation, but are still driving to the house, they could turn the heat back up and
warm the house prior to their arrival).
Page 20
(Min. 20 points)
2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

This section deals with building components that make up the structure of the home. Items
involve alternatives to using large dimensional lumber; products with a recycled component,
utilizing wood products that come from sustainably managed forests and reducing the overall
amount of lumber used. Many Building Material items also improve thermal performance and
EnerGuide scores.
This section also focuses on the finish materials used both inside and outside of the home. The
items listed include using longer lasting products; products with recycled content and products
that are harvested from third-party certified sustainably managed forests.
2-1
Exterior and interior wall stud spacing at 19.2 on-center (1 point) or 24"
on-center (2 points).
Increasing stud spacing increases the thermal performance of walls while also saving
materials. Typically this is only an option for a load bearing wall if it is made of 2x6s.
Maximum unsupported wall height may also be affected by this.
2-2
Elimination of headers at non-bearing interior and exterior walls (1 point).

It is not necessary to use the additional wood involved in header construction if the
opening is less than 4' wide and is non-load bearing. For more details on Optimum
Value Engineering framing principles see www.buildingscience.com.
2-3
Use of header hangers instead of jack studs (1 point).

Using metal header hangers instead of jack studs allows for savings in wood use. For
more details on Optimum Value Engineering framing principles see
www.buildingscience.com.
Page 21

2-4
(Min. 20 points)
Elimination of cripples on hung windows (1 point).

For hung window openings, cripples are only necessary for siding or gypsum board
attachment. For more details on Optimum Value Engineering framing principles see
2-5
Elimination of double plates, using single plates with connectors by lining

up roof framing with wall and floor framing (1 point).
Stack framing principles will allow for reduced wood usage. For more details on
Optimum Value Engineering framing principles see www.buildingscience.com.
2-6
Use of two-stud corner framing with drywall clips or scrap lumber for
drywall backing instead of studs (1 point).
Drywall clips can be used instead of a third corner stud allowing for reduced wood
usage. For more details on Optimum Value Engineering framing principles see
2-7
Deck or veranda surfaces (1 point) and/or structure (1 point) made from a

third-party certified sustainably harvested wood source.
Wood must come from a sustainably harvested source with certification from Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), or Canadian Standards
Association's Sustainable Forest Management Standard (CAN/CSA-Z809-02). Canada
is the leading nation in certified forest area and most of Canadas managed forests are
certified to one or more of these standards.
spec and data sheets available for review upon request, including proof of the
sustainable credentials of the wood (eg: FSC Chain of Custody Certificate, etc).
Page 22

2-8
(Min. 20 points)
Deck or veranda surfaces (1 point) and/or structure (1 point) made from a

third-party certified sustainable concrete or from a concrete containing a
minimum 25% supplementary cementitious materials.
Concrete produced from aggregates derived from a pit or quarry with a valid reclamation
plan approved by Materials and Resources Canada or the governing provincial body.
request.
2-9
Dimensional lumber from a third-party certified sustainably harvested

source used for floor framing (1 point).
See 2-7.
2-10 Dimensional lumber from a third-party certified sustainably harvested

source used for wall framing (2 points).
See 2-7.
2-11 Dimensional lumber from a third-party certified sustainably harvested

source used for roof framing (1 point).
See 2-7.
2-12 Use manufactured wood products for floor systems instead of dimensional
lumber (1 point), from third party certified sustainably harvested sources (2
points).
An engineered wood floor system saves old growth forests by using components from
second-generation forests and the use of recycled materials. See 2-7. These systems
generally conserve material as the material is placed where it is most useful to
counteract the stresses on it, much like a steel I-beam.
Page 23
(Min. 20 points)
2-13 Reduce dimensional lumber (1 point) use by using engineered product for
all load bearing beams & columns, from third party certified sustainable
sources (2 points).
Engineered products include wood products, concrete and recycled steel. Engineered
wood products often can use scraps of wood that are too small for full-size lumber, thus
making the most use out of a tree.
2-14 Reduce dimensional lumber use by using engineered products for all
exterior window and door headers (1 point).
Engineered products include wood products, concrete and recycled steel. Sizing
headers for loads is a good building practice to implement.
2-15 Finger-jointed plate material and/or engineered plate material used for all
framing plates (1 point).
Use of recycled materials saves old growth forests. See items 1-4 and 2-7 above.
2-16 Reduce dimensional lumber use by using engineered stud material for 10%
of structural stud wall framing (1 point).
Use of engineered lumber products saves old growth forests by using components from
second-generation forests and the use of recycled materials. See items 1-4 and 2-7.
2-17 Finger-jointed studs for 90% of non-structural (1 point) and/or 90% of

structural wall framing (1 point).
Use of finger-jointed stud saves on materials that would be too short to use
conventionally. See items 1-4 and 2-7.
2-18 Recycled and/or recovered content gypsum wallboard, minimum of 15%

recycled content (1 point).
Gypsum wallboard can have relatively high waste factors in homes, recycling it to be
used in new gypsum board is much more environmentally friendly than placing it in a
Page 24
(Min. 20 points)
landfill. Purchasing drywall with recycled content helps ensure that the waste doesnt
take up space in a landfill.
2-19 Recycled content exterior wall sheathing (minimum 50% pre- or postconsumer) (2 points).
Recycling leads to a new life for a product that would have been wasted. Recycling
generally uses significantly less energy to repurpose a material than extracting it from
the ground.
request.
2-20 Concrete used in home has a minimum supplementary cementing material

of 25% (1 point) or 40% (2 points) within the scope of proper engineering
practices.
For every one-ton of Portland cement generated, eighth tenths of a ton of carbon dioxide
is produced. Supplementary cementations products include fly ash, blast furnace slag as
well as metakaolin.
Flyash is a by-product of burning coal for electricity production. It can be added to
concrete slabs and foundation mixes as a substitute for typically 20 30% of the
Portland cement mixture. It has been shown to improve the strength of concrete as well
as increase its workability. Be advised that concrete with flyash content sets up
somewhat more slowly, but it is easy to work with and has a slightly smoother finish. It is
readily available and involves no added cost.
Slag cement is made from the slag material produced inside blast furnaces used for iron
production. It can be used as a substitute for up to 50% of the Portland cement in
concrete. Slag cement tends to improve workability, finish quality and strength of
concrete, but typically does not increase the curing time. It is becoming more available,
and it is becoming cost competitive with flyash and Portland cement.
For verification, provide relevant documentation (either product stamp/label, letters from
supplier) stating the cements recycled content.
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(Min. 20 points)
2-21 All insulation used in home is certified by a third-party to contain a

minimum recycled content: 25% (1 point) or 50% (2 points).
Yes, you can now get insulation that is made out of recycled content. Per 1-4 above, any
environmentally preferable products used may be subject to audit during the certification
review process. The builder should keep a copy of all material spec and data sheets (eg:
demonstrating recycled content) available for review upon request.
2-22 Overhead garage door is made of 75% or greater recycled material (1

point).
Refer to items 1-4 and 2-7: recycled and certified wood is great, and needs to be
verified.
2-23 Install carpet that has a minimum of 50% recycled content (2 points).
Recycled-content carpet is a good use of renewable resources, lessens off-gassing and
improves air quality. For verification, provide a list of the carpet products used and their
various percentages of recycled and (separately) recovered content.
2-24 Natural or 100% recycled-content carpet pad made from textile, carpet
cushion or tire waste (rebond still qualifies) (2 points).
Recycled-content carpet is a good use of renewable resources, lessens off gassing and
improves air quality, and is increasingly available. For verification, provide a list of the
carpet products used and their various percentages of recycled and (separately)
recovered content.
2-25 Install a minimum of 300 ft of laminate flooring (2 points).

Laminates are durable, easy to clean, and can be made from a number of materials
(recycled, renewable, etc). For verification, provide a list of the products used and clear
indication of where they are to be used within the home (indicate on the drawings or
describe with words and attach the drawings.
Page 26
(Min. 20 points)
2-26 Bamboo, cork or hardwood flooring used in home, minimum of 300 ft

installed. Products must be third-party certified from sustainably managed
forests or certified sustainable sources (3 points).
Cork flooring comes from stripping the bark off cork oak, which regenerates itself. The
cork tiles are moisture, rot and mould resistant, providing a floor that can last over 30
years. Bamboo flooring is a good use of natural resources because it is fast growing,
durable and flexible. All hard floorings promote better indoor air quality by not trapping
contaminates.
For verification, provide a list of the flooring products used and demonstrate that they are
indeed compliant with one of the recognized wood certification programs.
2-27 All ceramic tiles installed in home has a minimum of 25% recycled-content
(2 points).
Reduces landfill usage. For verification, provide a list of the tile products used and their
various percentages of recycled and (separately) recovered content.
2-28 Install finished concrete interior floors instead of other types of finished
floors (tile, carpet, hardwood, etc). For 300-500 ft (1 point), 501-1000 ft (2
points), 1001-1500 ft (3 points), 1501+ ft (4 points).
Not applicable in unfinished basement areas. Using the concrete itself as a finished
floor where concrete is being used regardless (for in floor heat or basement slabs)
provides a durable floor with less material usage. This type of flooring can be regarded
as higher end.
request.
2-29 Paints or finishes with minimum of 20% recycled content (1 point).

Paints or finishes made from recycled content are environmentally friendly because
recycling paint reduces the hazardous waste in landfills. For verification, provide a list of
the paint and finishing products used and the percentage recycled content in each.
Page 27
(Min. 20 points)
2-30 Local natural stone or recycled content (30% of content) solid countertops
for all kitchen counters (2 points), all other counter tops (1 point).
Solid counter top product is more durable, easy to clean and maintain, resistant to heat
and scoring. By quarrying and sourcing in Canada, the environmental cost of shipping is
greatly reduced. Foreign stone cut or polished in Canada is not acceptable, quarry must
be located within 800km of project, see item 7-1 for additional point.
For verification, provide a list of the countertops used, their composition, and location of
origin.
2-31 100% agricultural waste or 100% recycled wood particle board used for
shelving (2 points).
Products such as wheat board are made from agricultural waste. If shelving is to be
provided in this project, then consider providing environmentally preferably shelving that
is constructed from agricultural waste. For verification, provide a list of the shelving
products used and what theyre made of.
Page 28
(Min. 20 pts.)
2-32 Exterior doors with a minimum of 15% recycled and/or recovered content
(1 point).
Many molded and engineered wood product doors contain a percentage of recycled
content, generally wood fiber. High quality, solid wood interior doors are commonly
salvaged from building demolitions. The cost, quality and feel of such doors make them
an attractive option for some home buyers. Finding matching sets can be challenging,
but some homebuyers are flexible on this issue. It may pay to source salvaged doors
before finalizing your plans to ensure you have sufficient doors of correct dimensions.
Contact your local building materials salvage yard for more details.
Recycled and recovered materials helps keep our landfill use to a minimum in addition to
reducing demand for virgin natural resources.
For verification, allow for site inspection and provide relevant documentation (either
product stamp/label, letters from supplier, web links) stating the exterior doors
recycled/recovered content. Recycled/recovered content of all exterior doors combined
must be 15% (by mass). This Action Item does not include overhead garage doors
(see 2-22).
2-33 Interior doors with a minimum of 15% recycled and/or recovered content
(1 point).
Many molded and engineered wood product doors contain a percentage of recycled
content, generally wood fiber. High quality, solid wood interior doors are commonly
salvaged from building demolitions. The cost, quality and feel of such doors make them
an attractive option for some home buyers. Finding matching sets can be challenging,
but some homebuyers are flexible on this issue. It may pay to source salvaged doors
before finalizing your plans to ensure you have sufficient doors of correct dimensions.
Contact your local building materials salvage yard for more details.
Recycled and recovered materials helps keep our landfill use to a minimum in addition to
reducing demand for virgin natural resources.
For verification, allow for site inspection and provide relevant documentation (either
product stamp/label, letters from supplier, web links) stating the interior doors
recycled/recovered content. Recycled/recovered content of all interior doors combined
must be 15% (by mass).
2-34 Interior doors made from third-party certified sustainably harvested wood
(2 points).
Doors containing wood from sustainably managed forests helps reduce clear cutting and
encourages the replanting of trees in areas from which they are harvested.
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(Min. 20 pts.)
Forest certification is a voluntary, market-based approach to help conserve, protect, and

restore the world's forests. There are currently four Forest certification systems in
operation and certifying wood products for sale Forest Stewardship Council (FSC),
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), CSA International, and American Tree Farm
System. See APPENDIX A for an overview of each.
For verification, allow for site inspection and/or provide relevant documentation (either
product stamp/label, letters from supplier, website) confirming that the product contains
third-party certified sustainably harvested wood.
2-35 Exterior window frames contain a minimum of 10% recycled content (1 point).
Traditionally, the finest clear-grained wood has been used for window frames. However,
the availability of stable, clear, mature wood has declined. As a result, the industry has
responded by developing finger-jointed wood productstaking smaller scraps of lower
value wood and edge-gluing them together, covered by top-quality wood veneers on the
finish surface. Also, reusing materials such as plastics that may not be biodegradable is
another approach of including recycled content into windows, thus reducing landfill
usage and demand for virgin natural resources.
supplier, website) confirming the recycled content of the exterior window frames.
2-36 Exterior window frames made from third-party certified sustainably

harvested wood (2 points).
Exterior window frames containing wood from sustainably managed forests helps reduce
clear cutting and encourages the replanting of trees in areas from which they are
harvested.
Forest certification is a voluntary, market-based approach to help conserve, protect, and
restore the world's forests. There are currently four Forest certification systems in
operation and certifying wood products for sale Forest Stewardship Council (FSC),
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), CSA International, and American Tree Farm
System. See APPENDIX A for an overview of each.
supplier, website) confirming that the product contains third-party certified sustainably
harvested wood.
2-37 Minimum 25% recycled or reclaimed exterior cladding for 1/3 of exterior (1
point)or >2/3 of exterior (2points) or >90% of exterior (3 points)
There is something beautiful in old things made new. Many exterior cladding materials
can be given a new life, and this Action Item seeks to reward such uses of reclaimed
brick, block, siding, steel, exterior woods, stone, etc, or any exterior cladding with
Page 30
(Min. 20 pts.)
recycled content. The intent is to replace virgin cladding materials with existing product
from the same or another job site. The possibilities are endless.
For verification, provide a statement of the intent and a list of materials being reused,
allow for site inspection, and provide relevant documentation (either product stamp/label,
letters from supplier, web links) demonstrating the degree of recycled/recovered content.
2-38 Recycled and/or recovered-content fascia and soffit (minimum 50% pre- or
post-consumer) (1 point each).
Complimentary to item 2-49, if the fascia and soffit reduces the amount of new material
used in production by using recycled and/or recovered content: gluing up mill scraps into
large pieces, which conserves natural resources and reduces landfill usage.
For verification, provide a list of the products used and their various percentages of
recycled and (separately) recovered content.
2-39 Exterior trim materials have recycled and/or recovered-content (minimum

50%) (3 points).
Recycled and/or recovered-content trim materials reduce the amount of new material
used in production by gluing up mill scraps into large pieces, which conserves natural
resources and reduces landfill usage.
recycled content.
2-40 MDF and/or finger jointed casing and baseboard used throughout home (1
point), and all jambs (1 point).
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) casing is created from sawdust and glues, utilizing all
wood waste to create usable product. For verification, provide a list of the baseboard
products used and of the locations where they were used in the home.
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(Min. 20 pts.)
2-41 Solid hardwood trim from third-party certified sustainably harvested

sources approved for millwork and/or cabinets (2 points per application
maximum of 4 points).
Uses trees from responsible sources and forests certified to an independent third party
forest certification program. For verification, provide a list of the trim products used and
of the locations where they were used in the home.
2-42 Domestic wood from reused/recovered or re-milled sources, 500 ft

minimum for flooring or all cabinets or all millwork (4 points).
Re-used, recovered or re-milled sources eliminate the need for new sources, saving
money, transportation costs, and forestry from depletion. All this and they bring their
history and story with them, adding character to the new home.
For verification, provide a list of the wood products reused, recovered, or re-milled, and a
description of what was done to them.
2-43 Minimum 25% recycled-content roofing system, including underlay and

finish (1 point) 50% recycled content (2 points)
Several roofing products now come with a certain minimum percentage of recycled
content in them by default. Recycled content roofing material reduces the use of new
resources and waste in landfills, and often results in a better quality the product.
recycled content.
2-44 Minimum 30-year manufacturer warranty roofing material (2 points plus 1

point for each additional 5 years).
A 25-year roof system saves homeowners money in replacement costs, and reduces the
use of landfills due to the longevity of the product. Many durable roofing systems are
now being offered with 30 to 50 year lifespans as standard, whether made from
fiberglass, asphalt, steel, clay, slate, shake, or any of several other options.
For verification, provide a list of the products used and their various warranties.
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(Min. 20 pts.)
2-45 Non-solvent based damp proofing (seasonal application) (1 point).

Water based damp proofing products use water as a thinner. Oil based damp proofing
gives off a number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when the solvent evaporates
after application. These VOCs can be a strong irritant and can add to air pollution.
spec and data sheets available for review upon request.
2-46 Use rain screen system separating cladding from the wall sheathing with a
drainage plane (2 points), 60% or more recycled content (1 point).
Use of recycled content polypropylene, steel or aluminum rain screen strapping may
replace the traditional use of wood strapping on rain screen systems. Using a rain
screen system will enhance the durability of the wall system. For good details on a rain
screen system, please see the CHBA Builders Manual (order from
www.buildermanual.ca) or search online.
spec and data sheets (eg: demonstrating durability features) available for review upon
request.
2-47 All exterior doors and windows manufactured from fiberglass (1 point for
doors, 1 point for windows, 2 points for both).
Fiberglass doors insulate better than steel skinned or wood doors, have a longer
lifespan, do not warp, twist or crack, and therefore reduce landfill use.
product stamp/label, letters from supplier, website) confirming that the exterior
doors/windows are manufactured from fiberglass.
2-48 Natural or cementitious stone/stucco/brick or fiber cement siding

complete or combination thereof for 25% of exterior cladding (1point), 50%
(2points), 75% (3points ) or >90% (4 points).
Siding made from cementitious stone, stucco, brick or fiber cement materials is relatively
strong, long lasting and fireproof. These properties greatly enhance the buildings
overall longevity and reduce on-going maintenance requirements. They are typically
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(Min. 20 pts.)
more expensive than other options such as vinyl siding, and the cost trades for the
durability.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection and/or provide photographic documentation
to ensure that the 100% of the buildings exterior cladding is cementitious stone, stucco,
brick or fiber cement siding.
2-49 Fiber cement fascia and soffit (1 point each).

Fiber cement board is much more durable than plywood, and if installed on the fascia
and soffit, made with recycled content from sawmill waste and Portland cement, is a
strong, long lasting and fireproof contribution to the roofs durability..
recycled and (separately) recovered content.
2-50 Exterior trim materials are made from alternatives to solid lumber (1 point).
Trim materials manufactured from OSB uses a laminating process to make larger pieces
from smaller pieces or strands of wood. The process saves old growth forests by using
trees from forests managed sustainably that prevents clear cutting and replant trees in
areas from which theyve been harvested. Most trim is no longer made from lumber now,
and alternatives are readily handy to implement.
For verification, provide a list of the products used and details of their composition (eg: a
product sheet).
2-51 All exterior trim is clad with pre-finished metal (1 point over wood backings,
2 points without wood backings) (1 or 2 points).
Replace conventional trim products with alternates that are clad with pre-finished metal.
Metals are durable, long lasting, requires no maintenance, and because they are so
much more durable (and longer living) than conventional trim products, they eventually
reduce waste in landfills.
For verification, provide a list of the metal trim dimensions used.
Page 34
(Min. 20 pts.)
2-52 Deck or veranda surfaces made from low maintenance materials - deck
surfaces do not need maintenance of any kind, including painting, for a
minimum of 5 years (2 points).
Deck and veranda surfaces are prone to severe weather exposure, and need to be
durable. Materials that last longer reduce landfill usage and tend to require little to no
maintenance, saving replacement costs and reducing energy use.
For verification, provide a list of the products used and their various warranties.
2-53 Lifetime finish on all door hardware

Materials that last longer reduce landfill usage and tend to require little to no
maintenance, saving replacement costs and reducing energy use.
2-54 Lifetime finish on all faucets

Physical Vapour Disposition provides a more durable product. No toxic wastes are
produced making it.
2-55 Install only Type 1 or 2-grade door hardware with lifetime mechanical and
coating warranty (2 points).
High quality, durable Type 1 and 2 hardware will not require replacing for the life of the
home. Avoid landfill by investing in durable hardware. For verification, provide a list of
the hardware products used and of the door locations where they were used in the
home.
3. INDOOR AIR QUALITY

This section focuses on the quality of the air within the finished home. Products listed here
include materials that are low in VOCs, products made from all natural materials as well as
various air cleaning and ventilation systems.
Page 35

3-1
(Min. 15 pts.)
Install pleated media filter on HVAC system with minimum MERV 7 rating (1
point).
Filtering the air helps remove airborne contaminants and keeps the air handling system
clean. Pleated filters filter air through an extended surface area (pleating) to remove
particulate matter from the air. They are relatively inexpensive and sufficient for most
home applications. The higher the efficiency, the better the filtration system is at
capturing and removing small particles from the air. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting
Value (MERV) rating system specifies allowable amounts and practical sizes that a filter
must catch. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller and greater number of particulates
is caught, providing better indoor air quality. A MERV rating of at least 7 (i.e. capturing
25-30% of particulate matter) is required for this point.
More efficient filters, such as HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters, remove 99% or
more of all particulate matter in the air. They are expensive, have high flow resistance,
and may require custom design for home applications. For these reasons, they are not
commonly used in residential filtration but may be desirable for highly sensitive/allergic
homeowners.
Make sure you include information about the air filter system you choose (including filter
size, type, quality, and the ideal replacement schedule) in the Homeowners Manual if
applicable (Action Item 7-2), so homeowner can properly maintain it.
For verification, provide photo documentation and/or allow for on-site inspection.
3-2
Install electronic or electrostatic air cleaner on HVAC system (1 point).

Permanent washable electrostatic air filters traps and removes airborne particles from
the air by charging them so that they are attracted and adhere to a filter screen. These
types of filters may require more frequent maintenance than media filters to maintain
performance, since they will become less effective over time if not adequately cleaned
and properly maintained. However, since they are reusable, they also reduce waste and
on-going operational costs associated with conventional disposable media filters.
An electronic air cleaner offers a superior level of filtration by using advanced, 3-stage
filtration technology to trap and filter airborne particles like dust, cat dander and smoke.
It works by placing an electric charge on airborne particles, and then collecting the
charged pollutants like a magnet. They can produce ozone, which can be a respiratory
irritant. Similar to the electrostatic air filters, they will become less effective over time if
not adequately cleaned and properly maintained, however electronic air cleaner cells
can be washed in your dishwasher or sink.
Page 36

3-3
(Min. 15 pts.)
Install air filter on all fresh air inlets (1 point).

A filter installed on the fresh air inlet will reduce the particulate that can be transferred
from outside into the home. All air intakes must be easily accessible for maintenance.
Bug screens are not considered a "filter". Check with the furnace or HRV manufacture
prior to installing a restrictive additional filter to the ventilation system.
3-4
Install HEPA filtration system in conjunction with an HVAC system (4

points).
High-Efficiency Particle Arresting (HEPA) filtration offers the highest particulate removal
available - 99.97% of particles ( 0.03 micron in size) that pass through the system
including dust, cat dander, certain bacteria, pollens and more. The filtration system
connects in-line with the furnace ductwork and offers three-stage filtration. An antimicrobial polyester pre-filter with a five pound, activated carbon filter is attached to the
filtration system. Filtration media that are not maintained at appropriate intervals will
reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system and may increase fan motor wear.
3-5
Install thermostat that indicates the need for the air filter to be changed or
cleaned (1 point).
This feature displays filter maintenance reminders on the thermostat. Regular furnace
maintenance is required to keep your mechanical equipment running efficiently and
problem free as well as ensuring a healthy indoor air environment.
3-6
Power vacuum all HVAC ducting prior to occupancy by homeowner (1

point).
During construction, debris often enters through the registers to collect in the ducting.
Unless removed, fine particles from the debris, which can be respiratory irritants, can
circulate within the ducts and re-enter the spaces through the registers. Power
vacuuming ductwork helps eliminate pollutants that drop into the HVAC ducting during
the construction process from being circulated into the home.
Page 37
(Min. 15 pts.)
In the final stages of construction and before owners move in, thoroughly clean and
vacuum ducts to remove any particles that may have entered during construction. Also,
the coil and heat exchanger should be inspected and cleaned thoroughly, and any
existing HVAC air filter operating before occupancy must be cleaned or replaced.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection or invoice from trade.
3-7
Prior to occupancy, but after all interior construction is substantially

complete and all finishes have been installed, perform a full flush of the air
within the house by running the air handler (on maximum speed if variable
device) for a minimum of 48 hours (not required to be consecutive).
Provide new filters for air handler after completed. (1 Point)
This process helps remove VOC's from the house that have been emitted by finishing
materials during construction. This is best accomplished by opening all operable
windows and interior doors and flushing the home with fresh air, but in production
environments it may be necessary to keep construction dust out by keeping the windows
closed.
3-8
Central vacuum system vented to exterior as recommended by the Carpet

and Rug Institute (1 point)
A central vacuum system collects dust centrally, while exhausting to the exterior so that
dust mites and bacteria do not have the opportunity to re-circulate back into the living
space. The result is cleaner, healthier air. Note: install exhaust far enough from air intake
areas. See manufacturer's installation guidelines.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection.
3-9
All insulation in the home is third-party certified or certified with low or

zero formaldehyde (2 points).
Formaldehyde is colorless gaseous organic compound, water soluble, with a
characteristic pungent and stifling smell. It is commonly used as a binding agent in
building materials. Products with low formaldehyde emission levels will improve indoor
air quality of homes and long-term owner health.
Standard fiberglass batt insulation, the most common for new houses, has up to 14%
formaldehyde, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Look for low or zero
formaldehyde containing insulation, fiberglass or otherwise, that has been third-party
certified to meet levels in accordance with California Department of Public Health
Section 01350 (CDPH 01350). If you use rigid insulation, make sure also that it is CFC-
Page 38
(Min. 15 pts.)
free, and HCFC-free. CFCs and HCFCs are not an indoor air quality problem, but should
be avoided because they are believed to cause deterioration of the earths ozone layer,
certainly a general threat to the environment and human safety.
supplier, website) confirming the low/zero formaldehyde content in accordance with
CDHP 01350.
3-10 Low formaldehyde sub floor sheathing (less than 0.18 ppm) (3 points).
characteristic pungent and stifling smell. Sub floor sheathing and other interior use gluecontaining products use urea-formaldehyde glue as a binder. With an off-gassing half-life
of about 10 years, urea-formaldehyde continues to off-gas formaldehyde for a long time
after application. Formaldehyde in the indoor environment can cause a several health
problems for the occupants, including headaches and flu like symptoms, and can be a
cause of sick building syndrome. Products with low formaldehyde emission levels will
improve indoor air quality of homes and long-term owner health. Industry Standard ANSI
A208.1-1999 sets a 0.20 ppm limit. Built Green requires a 10% better level of
performance at 0.18 ppm. Products using Phenol Formaldehyde, or PMDI or MDI will
meet this standard without testing. Whenever possible, use materials containing no
formaldehyde, such as Medex grade MDF.
supplier, website) confirming that the product has undergone third-party certification to
meet formaldehyde levels of < 18 ppm.
3-11 Low formaldehyde underlayment is used in home (less than 0.18 ppm) (1
point).
Low formaldehyde (phenol) and formaldehyde-free binders (PMDI) are available and are
becoming more common. FSC certified OSB is becoming more common, reducing
environmental impacts on air, water, and social quality.
3-12 Low formaldehyde particle board/MDF (less than 0.18 ppm) (1 point), or
zero formaldehyde particle board/MDF (2 points) used for cabinets.
Cabinets are often built from particleboard, which off-gasses formaldehyde for a long
time. Formaldehyde is colorless gaseous organic compound, water soluble, with a
characteristic pungent and stifling smell. Particleboard, interior grade medium density
fiberboard (MDF) and other interior use glue-containing products use urea-formaldehyde
Page 39
(Min. 15 pts.)
glue as a binder. With an off-gassing half-life of about 10 years, urea-formaldehyde

continues to off-gas formaldehyde for a long time after application. Formaldehyde in the
indoor environment can cause a several health problems for the occupants, including
headaches and flu like symptoms, and can be a cause of sick building syndrome.
Products with low formaldehyde emission levels will improve indoor air quality of homes
and long-term owner health. Industry Standard ANSI A208.1-1999 sets a 0.20 ppm limit.
Built Green requires a 10% better level of performance at 0.18 ppm. Products using
Phenol Formaldehyde, or PMDI or MDI will meet this standard without testing.
Whenever possible, use materials containing no formaldehyde, such as Medex grade
MDF. Cabinets should be finished with a low toxic finish.
3-13 Low formaldehyde particle board/MDF (less than 0.18 ppm) (1 point), or
zero formaldehyde particle board/MDF (2 points) for shelving.
characteristic pungent and stifling smell. Particleboard, interior grade medium density
fiberboard (MDF) and other interior use glue-containing products use urea-formaldehyde
glue as a binder. With an off-gassing half-life of about 10 years, urea-formaldehyde
continues to off-gas formaldehyde for a long time after application. Formaldehyde in the
indoor environment can cause a several health problems for the occupants, including
headaches and flu like symptoms, and can be a cause of sick building syndrome.
Products with low formaldehyde emission levels will improve indoor air quality of homes
and long-term owner health. Industry Standard ANSI A208.1-1999 sets a 0.20 ppm limit.
Built Green requires a 10% better level of performance at 0.18 ppm. Products using
Phenol Formaldehyde, or PMDI or MDI will meet this standard without testing.
Whenever possible, use materials containing no formaldehyde, such as Medex grade
MDF.
3-14 All interior wire shelving is factory coated with low VOC / no off gassing
coatings (1 points)
Vinyl coating on conventional wire shelving units off-gas toxic volatile organic
compounds (VOCs). Choosing healthier low/zero-VOC options will reduce the harmful
impacts on the health of the occupants as well as the installers.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection and provide relevant documentation (either
product stamp/label, letters from supplier, website) confirming that the product has
undergone third-party certification to meet VOC levels in accordance with Green Seal
Standard GC-03, Anti-Corrosive Paints, Ed. 1997 of 250 g/L of meet low or no VOCs.
Page 40
(Min. 15 pts.)
3-15 Water-based urethane finishes used on all site-finished wood floors (2

points).
Water-based epoxy finish (generally referred to as epoxy-modified finish) differs from its
solvent-based counterpart in that the epoxy resin is itself the catalyst for an acrylic or
urethane resin. The result is far fewer volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions than
solvent-based finishes. Water-based varnishes, polyurethane, and other finishes for
hardwood floors are very durable and much safer to handle than traditional products.
Low-toxic solvents, water-based strippers, and all-natural thinners are also locally
available.
supplier, website) confirming that the product is a water-based urethane finish.
3-16 All wood or laminate flooring in home is factory finished (2 points).

Installing a pre-finished floor eliminates the time, the dust and the odours associated
with the on-site sanding and finishing of an unfinished product.
supplier) confirming that the flooring was factory finished.
3-17 Water-based lacquer or paints are used on all site built and installed
millwork, including doors, casing and baseboards (< 200 grams/litre of
VOC's) (2 points).
Conventional solvent-based lacquer and paints off-gas toxic volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). Choosing water based interior finish products with low VOC emissions reduces
the harmful impacts on the health of the occupants as well as the installers.
supplier) confirming the lacquer/paints used on all site built and installed millwork are
water-based, and have been third-party certified to meet VOC levels < 200 g/L.
3-18 Interior paints used have low VOC content (less than 200 grams/litre of
VOCs) (1 point).
Solvent-based paints are traditionally considered the most durable, but they produce
toxic emissions when curing and require the use of hazardous solvents for cleanup. In
addition, they off-gas trace amounts of volatiles (gases) for months following application,
and can cause upper respiratory irritation to the occupants.
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(Min. 15 pts.)
Zero-VOC or low-VOC water based paints are generally safer to handle, can be
cleaned up with water, and produce little or no off-gassing. For most indoor applications,
there is almost no difference in performance between solvent-based and water-based
paints. Many low-VOC paints are comparable in price to conventional paint.
Low-VOC, water-based paints may still contain toxic ingredients, however. Although
these toxic ingredients are not generally an air quality problem for occupants, they may
be hazardous to painters and those involved in manufacture of the paint. In addition,
hazardous ingredients can degrade the natural environment during production and after
disposal. Fortunately, several locally available, water-based paints perform well and are
low-toxic. These paints tend to cost 10% to 30% more than most conventional paints.
supplier) confirming that the interior paints used have been third-party certified to meet
VOC levels of < 200 g/L.
3-19 Interior paints used have no VOCs in base paint prior to tint (1 point) or in
tint (additional 2 points) Alternatively, for a full 3 points use natural finishes like
lime plasters.
Solvent-based paints are traditionally considered the most durable, but they produce
toxic emissions when curing and require the use of hazardous solvents for cleanup. In
addition, they off-gas trace amounts of volatiles (gases) for months following application,
and can cause upper respiratory irritation to the occupants.
Zero-VOC or low-VOC water based paints are generally safer to handle, can be
cleaned up with water, and produce little or no off-gassing. For most indoor applications,
there is almost no difference in performance between solvent-based and water-based
paints. Many low-VOC paints are comparable in price to conventional paint.
Low-VOC, water-based paints may still contain toxic ingredients, however. Although
these toxic ingredients are not generally an air quality problem for occupants, they may
be hazardous to painters and those involved in manufacture of the paint. In addition,
hazardous ingredients can degrade the natural environment during production and after
disposal. Fortunately, several locally available, water-based paints perform well and are
low-toxic. These paints tend to cost 10% to 30% more than most conventional paints.
supplier) showing that the interior paints used have been third-party certified to contain
no VOCs in base paint prior to tint.
3-20 All ceramic tiles are installed with low VOC adhesives and plasticizer-free
grout (low VOC standard is less than 150 grams per litre) (1 point).
Most adhesives are still based on SB latex, which releases large quantities of VOCs.
The volatile solvents are used to emulsify (or liquefy) the resin that acts as the bonding
Page 42
(Min. 15 pts.)
agent. However, water-based adhesives emit far less VOCs than their conventional
solvent based counterparts. There are three types of low-VOC formulas: water-based
(latex and acrylics); reactive (silicone and polyurethane); and exempt solvent-based
(VOC-compliant solvents). While all three technologies yield low- or zero-VOC caulks,
sealants, and adhesives, their performance is slightly different.
supplier) confirming through third-party certification that the ceramic tile adhesives and
grout meet VOC levels of < 105 g/L and are plasticizer-free, respectively.
3-21 All Vinyl flooring is replaced with natural linoleum installed with low VOC
adhesives or other hard surface flooring (2 points).
Vinyl flooring typically releases VOCs as it ages and uses toxic glues in its application.
Hard surface flooring is generally more durable and improves the Indoor Air Quality
within a building. Linoleum is made from all-natural materials and is a durable, lowmaintenance flooring made of linseed oil, pine resin, sawdust, cork dust, limestone,
natural pigments, and a jute backing. Linoleum does not contain significant petroleumbased products or chlorinated chemicals, as does vinyl sheet flooring, which is often
mistakenly referred to as linoleum.
For verification, allow for site inspection and (if applicable) provide relevant
documentation (either product stamp/label, letters from supplier) confirming that the
linoleum adhesive used has been third-party certified to meet VOC levels of < 105 g/L.
3-22 Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) IAQ label on all carpet used in home (2
points).
New carpet can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when first installed. Labeling
programs aid in the selection of low-emitting carpet, adhesives, and cushion materials.
Carpet bearing the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) IAQ label indicates that:
The manufacturer voluntarily participates in these programs and is identified by an
assigned number in the label.
The manufacturer is committed to developing ways to minimize any adverse effects
on indoor air quality.
A representative sample of the product type has been tested by an independent
laboratory and meets the established requirements for each program.
CRIs IAQ labeled carpet informs the consumer that the product type has been tested by
an independent laboratory and has met the criteria for very low emissions.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection and/or provide relevant documentation
(either product stamp/label, letters from supplier, website) confirming that the carpet has
been IAQ labeled by the CRI.
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(Min. 15 pts.)
3-23 Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) IAQ label on all underlay used in home (1
point).
The adhesives used to install carpets and the latex rubbers by some manufacturers to
adhere face fibers to backing materials generate volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Carpets also cover large surfaces within an interior environment and can provide sinks
for the absorption of VOCs from other sources. Labeling programs aid in the selection of
low-emitting carpet, adhesives, and cushion materials.
Carpet underlay bearing the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) IAQ label indicates that:
The manufacturer voluntarily participates in these programs and is identified by an
assigned number in the label.
The manufacturer is committed to developing ways to minimize any adverse effects
on indoor air quality.
A representative sample of the product type has been tested by an independent
laboratory and meets the established requirements for each program.
CRIs IAQ labeled carpet underlay informs the consumer that the product type has been
tested by an independent laboratory and has met the criteria for very low emissions.
For verification, allow for on-site inspection and/or provide relevant documentation
(either product stamp/label, letters from supplier, website) confirming that the carpet
underlay has been IAQ labeled by the CRI.
3-24 Natural material based carpet in all living areas (2 points).

Today, 97% of all manufactured carpets consist of synthetic fibers. These synthetic
components off-gas toxic chemical compounds from the glues that bind the fibers to the
backing as well as the chemical additives for controlling mildew, fungus, fire and rot.
Several companies make carpets with natural fibers, such as wool or cotton. These
carpets tend to be more durable and use less secondary backing materials and
chemical. However, these natural fiber alternatives tend to cost more than synthetics.
(Note: Even natural carpets can be a source of noxious gases if treated with chemicals.
For example, wool carpet is often moth-proofed.) Even natural fiber carpets may cause
allergic reactions in a very small percentage of the population.
product stamp/label, letters from supplier) confirming that the carpet is natural material
based.
Page 44
(Min. 15 pts.)
3-25 All carpet in home is replaced by hard surface flooring (4 points).

Hard surface flooring is generally more durable and improves the Indoor Air Quality
within a building. Carpets collect dust; dust mites and other allergens which when
disturbed become airborne particulates- directly affecting the health of the occupants.
For verification, allow for site inspection.
Page 45
IV. Ventilation
(Min. 5 points)
4. VENTILATION
This section covers the mechanical ventilation systems in the home, including filtrations and
heat recovery. Canadians tend to spend nearly 90% of their time indoors, so the health of our
indoor environments has an enormous direct impact on the health of our population.
*Platinum Level Note*: Platinum level homes must pursue Action Item 4-7 "Ventilation system
is installed according to CSA Standard F326, as recommended by the Heating, Refrigeration
and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI)" as well as 5 additional points from this section.
4-1
All ductwork joints and penetrations sealed with low toxic mastic or
aerosolized sealant system (2 points).
Duct leakage is commonly caused by sealing imperfections of the duct joints and various
duct penetrations. Such uncontrolled airflows result in pressure imbalances, increased
infiltration that can increase or decrease humidity, non-uniform temperatures, and
energy/capacity losses for the HVAC system. In addition, Leakages draw dust and
contaminants into the conditioned space. Reducing duct leakage saves energy, delivers
air more effectively within the house, and maintains the thermal comfort and health of
the occupants. Measuring leakage rates is normalized by dividing by the floor area of
the house. Leakage rates of 10 L/S (21 cfm) per 10 m2 (107 ft2) are not recommended
(LEED Reference Guide).
Proper sealing during installation would eliminate joint and interface leakages, whereas
sealing joints missed during installation is cost prohibitive because of the damage to the
surrounding structures during repair.
Duct mastic is a preferred flexible sealant that can move with the expansion, contraction,
and vibration of the duct system components, it also requires the least surface
preparation. A high quality duct system greatly minimizes energy loss from ductwork.
The system should be airtight, sized and designed to deliver the correct airflow to each
room.
Verification for this item can be performed on site or by photograph.
4-2
Install motorized damper on fresh air inlet (must be interlocked with

furnace system) (2points).
A constantly open fresh air supply (passive air) wastes energy. Positive control of this air
will assure building comfort, safety and energy efficiency.
To interlock the damper with a furnace thermostat, the damper is placed at the
terminating end of an insulated fresh air inlet duct beside the furnace. When the
Page 46
IV. Ventilation
(Min. 6 points of 21)
temperature drops below the set temperature of the thermostat the motorized damper
opens to allow enough fresh air for complete combustion. When the combustion cycle
ends, the damper closes to prevent the entry of unnecessary cold air. If the fan stays on
longer than needed for the introduction of ventilation air, the damper automatically
closes, thus allowing the re-cycling of the return air (www.buildingscience.com).
Verification for this item can be performed on site or by photograph.
4-3
Install all ventilation fans (bath or in-line type) to meet or exceed the
ENERGY STAR requirements (1 point)
Energy Star fans have to meet standards for efficiency, and sound transmission,
providing quiet and effective ventilation fans. ENERGY STAR ventilating fans use, on
average, 65 percent less energy than standard models. They also move air more quietly
because of their better fan design, and are more durable because of the warranty
requirements of the program. (www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/energystar/english).
Verification for this item requires provision of a spec on the fan (demonstrating that it is
ENERGY STAR compliant) and either a visual inspection on site or a photograph.
4-4
Install a programmable timer or humidistat controlled ventilation fan

meeting the ENERGY STAR requirements for efficiency and sound level (1
point)
A programmable timer or humidistats ensure necessary, regular, automatic mechanical
ventilation of the home especially in the kitchen and the bathroom. Such measures
ensure that the installed fans remove any potential pollutants and excess moisture and
improve the occupant comfort level. By meeting Energy Star requirements, fans are
quiet enough to encourage their frequent usage. A 1.0 sone fan would achieve this goal
for either the kitchen or the bathroom. (www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/energystar/english)
Verification for this item requires provision of a spec on the humidistat (demonstrating
that it is ENERGY STAR compliant) and either a visual inspection on site or a
photograph.
4-5
Install an active Heat Recovery Ventilator or Energy Recovery Ventilator

(HRV or ERV) and verify balanced installation (2 points).
A heat recovery ventilator (HRV), also known as an air-to-air heat exchanger (AAHX),
provides an energy efficient and effective ventilation system that cannot be matched by
the typical exhaust-only ventilation systems that are otherwise commonly used in
houses. With an HRV installed, waste heat in the exhaust air stream is transferred by a
heat exchanger into the incoming air stream, significantly reducing the energy required
to heat cold outdoor air to interior comfort levels. In addition, HRVs exhaust humid, stale,
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IV. Ventilation
polluted air out of the home and draw in fresh, clean outdoor air into the home. Invisible
pollutants produced by common household substances, plus dust and excess humidity
that get trapped in today's houses, can increase your risk of chronic respiratory illness
and your homes risk of eventual damage
Active HRVs are able to recover 50% to 80% of the heat energy that would otherwise be
lost through ventilation. Even in Southwest BCs mild climate, these energy savings pay
for the HRV long before the equipment reaches its rated service life.
Most HRVs are equipped with automatic humidity sensors that increase the ventilation
rate when needed for instance, when you use the shower. The system is typically
designed to exhaust each bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen, and supply each
bedroom and living space (office, living room, and den) using 4-inch or 6-inch diameter
ductwork. This installation meets all the requirements of the code, and no other fans or
timers are necessary (except perhaps kitchen range hood exhaust). The design provides
effective ventilation for the entire house without relying on passive vents, window slot
vents, or centrally ducted make-up air. Finally, the HRV is effective at controlling indoor
moisture levels and accommodates various filters, which may be incorporated to
address other indoor air quality issues, although high efficient filters are not very
effective on HRV due to the low cfm of air movement. Another advantage of an HRV
system is that it provides high quality ventilation to the house for maintaining indoor air
quality if the envelope is sealed tightly. Without proper envelope sealing, the benefits of
installing an HRV or ERV are greatly minimized.
Much like the HRV, the ERV recovers heat; however, it also recuperates the energy
trapped in moisture, which greatly improves the overall recovery efficiency. In dry
climates and humidified homes the ERV limits the amount of moisture expelled from the
home. In humid climates and air-conditioned homes, when it is more humid outside than
inside, the ERV limits the amount of moisture coming into the home. In leaky envelopes,
extracting moisture from exhaust air stream balances the humidity levels inside the
envelope, thus improving the occupant comfort levels.
Verification for an ERV is the same as for an HRV.
4-6
Install permanent (de)humidification control (ERVs are considered

acceptable) (1 Point)
Humidity can make us more comfortable but can also make us uncomfortable. In heating
climates humidification can actually reduce the temperatures at which we feel
comfortable. Conversely, in cooling climates, humidity combined with heat can make us
decidedly more uncomfortable. Low humidity has also been linked to being a condition
favored by viruses. High humidity is the condition most favored by bacteria & mold.
Clearly humidity control is very important in a green home.
To prevent window condensation during the heating season, the recommended indoor
RH is 30 per cent to 50 per cent. When it is below -10C (14F) outdoors, recommended
indoor RH is 30 per cent. As the outside air in winter usually has less humidity in it, a
humidifier can be added to your HVAC system to bring the levels up in this season. The
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IV. Ventilation
humidifier must be connected to a control (humidistat) to ensure the right amount of

moisture is getting into the air.
Alternatively, in the cooling season, the humidity makes your air conditioner work harder.
A dehumidifier may be required in some parts of the country. This too must be attached
to a control to ensure that all the humidity is not taken from the air. An Energy Recovery
Ventilator is also very good at removing the moisture in the air. The ERV will exhaust the
stale air & condition the incoming air as well.
For verification, please provide supplier invoices & manufacturers specifications.
4-7
Ventilation system is installed according to CSA Standard F326, as

recommended by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute
of Canada (HRAI) (4 points).
Installation of the HVAC system should be carried out in accordance with CSA Standard
F236-M91: Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems. A properly installed ventilation
system helps ensure the health and comfort of the building occupants, as well as the
proper operation and longevity of the buildings mechanical equipment.
For verification, have the HVAC contractor provide appropriate documentation
confirming that the installation of the ventilation system conforms with the procedures
outlined in CSA Standard F236-M-91 (1991).
4-8 All bath fans used throughout home have a noise level of 1 sone or less (2
points)
Noise level is also a consideration when selecting bathroom ventilation, whereby
installing quiet fans will encourage use for home ventilation. For quiet bathroom
ventilation the fan should be rated at 1.0 sones or less. (A sone is a measure of how
loud the fan is when in operation - the lower the number, the quieter the operation).
Example (http://www.hvi.org):
4.0 sones is the sound of standard television operation;
3.0 sones is typical office noise;
1.0 sones is the sound of a refrigerator;
0.5 sones is the sound of rustling leaves.
Page 49
V. Waste Management
(Min. 7 points)
5. WASTE MANAGEMENT
The construction and renovation sectors are responsible for a frightening percentage of the total
waste generated in North America. This section deals with the handling of waste materials on
the construction site and encourages recycling both during and after construction.
5-1
Comprehensive recycling program for building site including education, site

signage and bins (2 points).
A comprehensive recycling program requires the participation of everyone on the jobsite,
and when strictly followed can significantly reduces the amount of waste ending up in
landfills. Each construction project presents a unique set of circumstances. Therefore
its best to develop a job-specific recycling plan that fits your site. The plan should
clearly indicate the materials that will be targeted for recycling and explain how they will
be collected, followed up with site signage and bins. Some key points to keep in mind
when developing your plan include:
Make a jobsite recycling plan that fits your site. For your convenience, a form
you can use to develop the plan is provided in Appendix A;
Target only high-potential materials for recycling and reuse. Phase recycling
based on construction activities;
Decide if you will co-mingle or source-separate materials, and if you will need to
have a hazardous materials survey performed prior to delivering materials to your
receiver;
Decide how and where you are going to collect materials you are targeting. For
example, you may want to stockpile cardboard in a garage, use a roped-off area
for metal, and use containers for wood and drywall;
Make recycling on the jobsite as convenient as disposal. For example, place
wood collection container near to the central cutting area;
Rely on good quality, easily accessible recycling and salvage service providers
and facilities;
Sell program benefits savings, safety, marketing benefit to jobsite crews
(including subs). Provide key field personnel the information they need to
participate. This could include:
A copy of the Jobsite Recycling Plan (see above).
A copy of relevant contract language to subcontractor.
Regular updates on recycling results at safety or project meetings.
Give recognition to everyone participating in the program.
Should this item be audited, provide your plan to the Built Green auditor.
Page 50
V. Waste Management
5-2
Implement a recycling program:collection of waste materials from site by a

waste management company that is a current member of a provincial
recycling council or equivalent association and verifies that a minimum of
25% of the materials collected from the construction site have been
recycled (3 points).
Not only does this reduce overall waste of product, it ensures that as much product as
possible is being utilized for the production of future resources.
For verification, provide a copy of the signed contract between the builder and the waste
management provider, as well as a letter from the waste management provider
confirming their recycling levels exceed 10%.
5-3
Suppliers and trades recycle their own waste, including leftover material
and packaging (1 point per trade, max. of 4).
Trades being responsible for recycling and removal of waste not only reduces landfill
waste, but also promotes a cleaner and safer working environment.
Cardboard, plastic shrink wrap, kraft paper, wood pallets or frames, and metal bands are
just some of the packaging materials that show up on your jobsite along with the
materials you order. In the end, they comprise a significant portion of the typical
construction waste stream and in this way add to your project costs.
A few manufacturers are beginning to take their own packaging back and reuse it to
package new materials. Items that can be reused cost-effectively include:
Pallets
Some corrugated cardboard packaging
Plastic buckets.
In addition, you can encourage manufacturers to accept and recycle their own packaging
and product waste. Some ways to encourage suppliers and manufacturers to take
responsibility for their packaging is to:
Request minimal packaging when placing a materials order.
Select brands of building products that are delivered with minimal packaging.
Select products with reusable packaging.
Select products with recyclable packaging.
Purchase materials like fasteners, paints, caulking, and drywall mud in bulk
containers.
Request suppliers take back their packaging.
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V. Waste Management
Some packaging will always be necessary to prevent materials damage, but the trick is
to find the balance between necessary and excessive packaging. Let your suppliers
know you care for economic and environmental reasons.
For verification, provide a copy of the contract between the builder and supplier/trade
that includes language confirming their agreement to recycle their own waste.
5-4
Minimum 35% (1 point) 50% (2 points) 75% (3 points)or 90% (4points) by

weight of waste materials collected from construction site is diverted from
waste stream.
Diverting a significant portion of waste materials from the waste stream requires the
participation of everyone on the jobsite. You must clearly communicate your intentions to
reduce and divert waste from landfills and provide the basic information needed to
enable people to contribute to your goals. Waste diversion strategies eligible for credit
include recycling, third-party scrap reuse and grinding of untreated wood or gypsum
materials for use on-site. Mulched clean dimensional lumber free of metal or mulched
paperless gypsum is often useable as either clay/soil water retention additives. Ineligible
strategies of waste stream diversion include the reuse of scrap materials on-site, burying
scrap materials on-site, placing unused building materials into wall cavities, grinding
treated wood materials, and incineration.
The Contractors Waste Reduction Resource Sheet in Appendix C provides some more
useful strategies, tips, and resources. Other helpful things to do are to:
Communicate your waste reduction goals at a jobsite kick-off meeting and during
safety meetings.
Give examples of types of materials that can be reused.
Clearly indicate materials you will be targeting for recycling on this job and explain
how you will be collecting recyclable materials.
Highlight special considerations and answer waste management questions.
Provide incentives to encourage subs to participate.
For verification, obtain receipts from waste management providers to document the
weights of the total waste being hauled versus diverted. Use the following to calculate
the waste diversion percentage:
Waste Diversion (%) = Waste Diverted / Total Waste Hauled
Where:
Waste Diverted = Total Waste Hauled Waste Sent to Landfill Waste Incinerated
or
= Material Reclaimed + Material Recycled
Page 52
V. Waste Management
5-5
Use of salvaged materials derived from local construction sites (1 point for
each different product used, max. of 3).
Products recycled from the construction site, such as mulched clean dimensional lumber
free of metals, or mulched paperless gypsum is often useable as either clay/soil water
retention additives.
For best results, the use of recycled materials should be considered during the design
phase. Using recycled materials from local construction sites will help ease natural
resource demand, reduce construction waste from other sites, and reduce construction
material transportation costs. As a rule, most used/recycled building materials can be
installed as long as they are not acting as a structural component or might potentially
compromise safety. Examples of materials include wood, steel, brick, windows, doors,
paneling, siding, cabinets, and soil amendment from mulched and untreated
wood/gypsum. Check with local salvaged building materials dealers, and online used
building materials exchanges.
For verification, provide a list identifying the specific recycled materials used, the
amounts used, and the local construction site or source where they were derived.
Recycled materials must comprise 10% of the building component(s) they are being
used for, and must be obtained from within 100 km.
5-6
Trees and natural features on site protected during construction (1 point).

The protection of existing trees and other natural features such as streams, ponds and
other vegetation reduces environmental and ecosystem impact of buildings. Simply
following good waste management procedures can protect many of these features.
Retaining native trees and vegetation in a landscape (rather than removing them and
then replanting) also provides excellent erosion, sediment, dust, and pollution control.
Native plants are more resistant to naturally occurring disease, insects, and low levels of
nutrients, thus reducing the need for fertilizer or pesticides.
Prior to construction, consult with a professional arborist, wildlife biologist, or landscape
architect to identify the sites high priority natural features, including valuable individual
trees, vegetation and bodies of water, that you want to preserve. Mark construction and
disturbance boundaries on drawings. Precautions during site preparation include the
following:
Clear only actual areas needed to install driveways, parking areas, and building
foundations;
Clearly mark areas to be graded on plans and field stake or flag on site;
Identify or flag non-clearing buffers, open spaces, and setbacks from streams,
wetlands, and steep slopes as indicated on plat maps;
Use straw bales, silt fencing, silt sacks, rock filters to protect on-site streams and
lakes;
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V. Waste Management
Review site areas to be graded with excavation crew to ensure compliance with
preservation plan;
Fence critical areas, such as tree root zones, to prevent crushing or filling;
If trees only (not understory) are designated for protection, hand clearing of
understory will help protect tree roots. Be careful, however, when exposing some
trees by clearing around themthey may become hazards in strong winds or rain.
Check with an arborist;
Check grading operations frequently to prevent accidental damage to marked areas;
Keep all excavations, equipment, and debris away from trees by installing tree
protection fencing at least at the maximum extent of the canopy (dripline) and to as
much as twice the diameter of the canopy when possible (this protects the root
systems). If you must cut roots, cut as few as possible. Cut them cleanly;
If you remove the tree, get the rootball into a moistened burlap sack as soon as
possible and re-bury the roots. (The roots begin to dry out almost immediately.
Keeping the roots moist, preferably with the soil intact, helps minimize the impact of
transplanting.) Preserve most of the important feeder roots. Whenever possible,
protect entire stands of trees;
Post signs on trees to be saved, clearly indicating the trees monetary value (cost of
replacement). Charge subcontractors for tree damage based on this dollar value
(optional);
Consult Table 6-1 (below) for potential problems associated with specific trees.
For verification, provide pre and post-construction photos, landscape drawings outlining
natural features, and a letter from professional landscape architect indicating this point
has been executed.
Table 6-1Potential Problems Associated with a Few Specific Trees
Tree Type
Potential Problems/Recommended Strategy
Dogwood
Douglas Fir
Maple Red
Alder
Western Hemlock
Western Red Cedar
They may not adjust to environmental changes as

easily as other species. Keep disturbance of these
tress to a minimum.
Pacific Silver Fir
If very tall, they can tip over easily. Watch height.
Douglas Fir
Western Hemlock
Thinning increases the possibility of tipping over.

Keep stands of these trees dense.
Cottonwoods
Maples
Willows
Water-seeking roots these trees thrive well in

high moisture areas but keep away from lines and
filter fields.
Page 54
V. Waste Management
5-7
Tree Type
Potential Problems/Recommended Strategy
Grand Fir
Noble Fir
Pacific Dogwood
Pacific Silver Fir
Red Alder
Sitka Spruce
Western Hemlock
Western Red Cedar
Keep stands of these trees dense, whether one

type of mixed varieties. These trees are very
prone to disease caused by thinning or damage to
any part of the trees.
Metal or engineered durable form systems used for concrete foundation

walls (1 point).
The use of metal forming systems for concrete pours reduces the requirement of lumber,
a limited resource. Forms made from steel or aluminum are readily available. Besides
providing a better finish, metal forms help to prevent unnecessary wood waste.
Dimensional lumber can be used for smaller scale projects, and if carefully maintained,
can provide adequate finish quality and can be reused many times. After their last use,
they may also be reused in building projects for non-structural applications.
For verification, provide photos of the formwork in place at the site, with a written letter
from the builder stating the choice of form material used.
5-8
Install permanent recycling center for the homeowner with two or more
bins (1 point) 4 or more bins (2 points).
Communities offer town- or city-sponsored recycling collection programs. By installing
built in recycling centers, which can be as simple as labeled containers (paper,
cardboard, cans, plastics, etc), homeowners are more likely to utilize the pre-existing
facilities and thus contribute to the reduction in landfill waste.
One way to encourage recycling is to build a space for recycling containers in or near
the kitchen, where 80% of a homes waste is generated. Most millwork manufacturers
include recycling centers within their cabinetry line. The cost of including such an area
within the kitchen depends upon the style desired. Installing bins in existing base
cabinets or closets can be done fairly inexpensively. For new cabinetry that includes
factory installed pull-out bins, the estimated cost range is $30 to $40 per linear foot.
There may be additional costs associated with extra floor space, if required.
Some the recycling programs provide two or more collection bins for pre-sorted
recyclables, and some programs provide one or two bins for mixed recyclables. Check
with your municipality first to see whether the bins offered by the program are suitable to
meet the daily collection needs of the family in the home.
For verification, on-site and/or photographic documentation is required.
Page 55
V. Waste Management
5-9 Provide composter to homeowner (1 points).

Providing a composter promotes a reduction in wastes heading to the landfill by giving
homeowners an option for organic waste such as food leftovers.
Composting is an old technique that has made a comeback in recent years. The process
turns organic wastes (such as grass clippings and food waste) into humus, which is vital
to soil fertility. About thirty percent of household waste is compostable. Worm bins are
another alternative that is growing in popularity. They are appropriate for treating
primarily vegetative food waste and small amounts of grass clipping. By providing
homeowners with a compost or worm bin, you promote this form of waste reduction. In
addition, you provide the homeowner with an organic alternative to chemical fertilizers
typically used to boost soil fertility. Finally, this organic stream is not added to the sewer
system.
You may want to build-in a convenient method of collecting food waste in the kitchen. A
covered waste box can be installed next to the sink. Food waste can then be dropped
through a chute into the bin underneath. Additionally, new ready-made food chutes are
now available that can be inserted into the kitchen cabinetry.
For verification, on-site inspection and/or photographic documentation is required.
5-10 Existing dwellings onsite are recycled (2 points) or moved (4 points) instead
of demolished.
There is a significant amount of embodied energy and natural resources that goes into
the making of and materials within a building. By recycling and preserving these
buildings, we are harvesting their embodied energy and offsetting the demand of new
and scarce natural resources.
For verification, photographic documentation and/or a letter from the dwelling removal
provider that confirms their intent to recycle or reuse the building is required.
Page 56
(Min. 25 points)
6. WATER CONSERVATION
As our urban centres grow, so does our need for water. Statistics tell us that Canadians use more water per
capita than any other nation on earth except the US. This section encourages a reduction in the amount of
water used in the home.
6-1
Install a dual flush or pressure assisted toilet in one or more bathrooms (3

points for first, 1 additional point for each after)
Toilets are one of the largest users of water in an average home. Dual flush toilets are
designed to use the standard 1.6 gallon flush to flush solids and also offer a reduced
1.0 or 0.8 gallon flush for liquid only flushes. Several imported products have been
available for several years and are tried and tested in the market place. Numerous
domestic manufacturers are now offering reliable dual flush products.
Pressure-assisted ultra low flow toilets are also available. These toilets use the pressure
of your cold water supply to pressurize a reservoir of water concealed within a standard
toilet tank. When flushed, this water is released at high pressure into the toilet bowl,
delivering a clean flush with an average 1.1 gallon flush.
A family of four, using dual-flush or ultra-low flush toilets can save as much as 6,000
gallons of water per year, compared to conventional 1.6 gallon per flush models.
To ensure adequate performance of high efficiency toilets, it is recommended to check a
toilets MaP Flush Performance to help with selecting. MaP scores identify how many
grams of solid waste are removed from each toilet with a single flush, and are updated
on a regular basis to reflect the latest models and changes in performance standards.
Toilet with a MaP score of at least 350 g should be more than sufficient to handle most
household needs. The most up-to-date ratings are available free of charge on the
Canadian Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) website at www.cwwa.ca.
For verification, be prepared to submit a spec. of the actual toilet installed at the site, and
the Built Green evaluation team will confirm visually.
6-2
Install a 1.28 GPF toilet in one or more bathrooms (2 points for first, 1
additional point for each after)
Toilets are one of the largest users of water in an average home. 1.28 GPF (Gallon per
Flush) is generally considered the new standard in water efficiency. Several imported
products have been available for several years and are tried and tested in the market
place. Numerous domestic manufacturers are now offering reliable 1.28 GPF products.
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(Min. 10 points)
To ensure adequate performance of high efficiency toilets, it is recommended to check a

toilets MaP Flush Performance to help with selecting. MaP scores identify how many
grams of solid waste are removed from each toilet with a single flush, and are updated
on a regular basis to reflect the latest models and changes in performance standards.
Toilet with a MaP score of at least 350 g should be more than sufficient to handle most
household needs. The most up-to-date ratings are available free of charge on the
Canadian Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) website at www.cwwa.ca.
6-3
Install manufactured non-electric composting toilet (3 points each, max of 6

points)
Composting toilets use no water and are odourless. They use a biological process to
break down human waste and convert it into nutrient-rich fertilizer for non-food plants
rather than mixing the waste with potable water and flushing it down the drain. The
advantages of these toilets include dramatic reductions in water use, reduced
groundwater pollution or sewage treatment impacts, and a recycling of nutrients. One
toilet can accommodate up to five persons.
Some composting chambers can be used with microflush toilets; however, most are nonflush units. If composting toilets are used, greywater treatment and disposal must be
addressed. Systems must meet local health department regulations for alternative onsite sewage systems.
6-4
Install hot water recirculation system with all hot water lines insulated (4
points), or point-of-use instant DHW system (1 point each, max. 4)
Having the hot water re-circulated from the hot water source to the fixture points will
decrease the initial water wasted by delivering the hot water faster. This reduces water
waste and lessens the burden on sewage-treatment systems. To obtain credit, the
recirculation pump must be on a program or timer to reduce stand-by losses, and all
lines must be insulated. Kitchen countertop boiling water taps are not credited.
A family of four wastes as much as 12,000 gallons of water every year waiting for hot
water to travel from heater to tap, and a properly functioning hot water recirculation
system can eliminate this waste.
For verification, be prepared to submit design info on the recirculation system, and the
Built Green evaluation team will confirm visually on site.
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6-5
(Min. 10 points)
Install low flow faucets for all kitchen faucets and lavatories (2 points), all
showers & tub/showers (additional 1 point)
This measure reduces water consumption by lowering the flow rate. Kitchen faucets
must use 6.8 L/min (1.8 Gal./min), lavatory faucets must use 5.7 L/min (1.5 Gal/min),
and showers must use 7.5 L/min (2.0 Gal/min).
Faucets typically use 11.4 gallons per person per day. Selecting low flow faucets can
help reduce overall water usage. For kitchen and utility room faucets where rapid filling
of sinks, pots and other containers is valuable, use at least 1.5 gpm aerators to ensure
customer satisfaction. Faucet aerators with flow rates of 0.5 or 1.0 gpm are available
and should be used in bathroom and cloakroom sinks. Ask your supplier for details.
Consumer performance complaints with reduced flow rates are most often associated
with the feel of the water coming from the faucet and clogging associated with
equipment that reduces flow rate with small hole screening. Faucets with flow rates less
than 1.6 gpm that have the feel of higher flow and that are guaranteed against clogging
are now available. Remember that not all brands are created equal, so talk to your
supplier. The added cost of higher-performance, low-flow heads is minimal.
For verification, be prepared to submit a spec. of the actual components installed at the
site, and the Built Green evaluation team will confirm visually.
6.6
Provide front loading clothes washer (3 points), or Condensing Combination

wash/dry unit (4 points)
Front loading (Horizontal Axis, see Fig 7-2) clothes washers conserve water by design,
as they are only required to fill up the washing compartment 1/3 full to effectively wash
clothing compared with top loading washers (Vertical Axis, see Fig. 71). Additionally
they use up to 75% less environmentally damaging laundry detergent, AND they also
conserve electrical or gas energy by significantly reducing drying time for clothes with a
more thorough spin cycle.
Condensing combination wash/dry units have a single drum for both washing and drying.
The dryer functions using electricity, and does not require an exhaust. It operates by
recirculating air in the drum between an electric heater and a water-cooled condensing
coil, or water-spray cooled condensing chamber. These effectively reuses substantial
portion of heat that would normally be exhausted with conventional drying machines.
Figure 7-1: Top Load - Vertical Axis
Configuration
Figure 7-2: Front Load Horizontal Axis

Configuration
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(Min. 10 points)
Axis
Agitator
Baffle
Water
Level
Axis
Water
Level
For verification, be prepared to submit a spec. of the actual units installed at the site, and
6-7
Install water saving dishwasher that uses less than 20.0 L/water per load (1
point)
Water saving dishwashers use technology to reduce both the amount of water required
as well as the electrical energy requirements. The EnerGuide appliance directory put out
by Natural Resources Canada has a comprehensive listing of all manufacturers and
models of dishwashers and other appliances with water usage and energy efficiency
ratings.
As with other home appliances, national energy standards have spurred the
development of more efficient dishwashers. Energy and water efficiency are closely
related in dishwashers except for booster heating and drying cycles. The most waterefficient dishwashers use as little as 3.9 gallons per cycle at the economy setting.
Energy savings range from 80 kWh per year to 364 kWh per year. Some of the most
efficient dishwashers also operate significantly more quietly than conventional
dishwashers.
The primary cost of running a dishwasher is the cost of heating the water. Energy saving
features includes light load options and air circulation for drying. Also, the smaller the
machine the less energy required to run a load. If you are building a home for a large
family, though, it will be better to install a larger machine that can be run fewer times a
day.
For verification, be prepared to submit a spec. of the actual units installed at the site, and
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6-8
(Min. 10 points)
Install permeable paving materials for all driveways and walkways (3 pts)
Permeable paving allows for storm water to flow back into the ground rather than into the
storm sewers. Permeable paving materials may initially cost more than conventional
paving materials (such as asphalt), but pavement replacement is simplified, and
expensive measures such as asphalt cutting for underground repairs are eliminated.
More importantly, permeable paving materials help to maintain the water hydrology of
the site. Examples of permeable options include:
Porous or No Fines concrete or asphalt (properly specified);
Uncompacted gravel (Note 1);
Crushed stone (Note 1);
Open or porous paving blocks;
A Hollywood driveway design (Note 2).
Notes:
1. Gravel or crushed stone is not considered pervious for driveways or parking areas, as
these materials will generally compact under vehicle traffic, unless it is reinforced with a
plastic, cellular containment product. Use gravel and crushed stone for walkways and
other light traffic areas.
2. A Hollywood driveway consists of only two long strips of pavement where the car
wheels need support. The area between should be vegetated (preferably with a low
grow turf, like a fescue) or filled with gravel. Vegetated strips provide some infiltration of
runoff, sediment filtering, and pollutant removal.
Should this item be audited during the Built Green certification process, be prepared to
provide product specifications/designs demonstrating permeability, and photographic
evidence of what was installed.
6-9
Builder supplies a minimum of 8 of topsoil or composted yard waste, as

finish grading throughout site (2 points)
Compared to subsoil materials, topsoil usually has higher aggregate stability, lower bulk
density, and more favorable pore size distributions, which leads to higher hydraulic
conductivity, water holding capacity, and aeration porosity.
Compost should be mature and stable. Ask your supplier for Grade A compost. Mature
composts settle less, provide stable nutrient sources, and also provide higher levels of
beneficial organisms.
As a rule of thumb, a 2 to 1 ratio of existing soil to compost, by loose volume, will
achieve the desired organics level of 8 to 13% by soil weight. The final depth of supplied
soil should be between eight and ten inches.
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(Min. 10 points)
provide a detailed description of what was installed on site, and photographic evidence
of that supports and confirms the description.
6-10 Provide a list of drought tolerant plants and a copy of the local municipality
water usage guide to homebuyers with closing package (1 point)
Many municipalities provide a guide that gives the water requirements of various plants
and grasses. When properly designed, landscaping choices can significantly contribute
to water conservation.
When planting a new lawn, select a grass mix that is suitable for the sun conditions and
the lawns intended use, and ideally one that grows slowly, requiring less frequent
mowing. Consider locally adapted rye-fescue seed blends. Be aware that tall and other
fescue grasses can be drought-tolerant if given a deep soil culture for their long roots
they need more water if planted in shallow soil. Mixes containing clover, bentgrass,
yarrow, chamomile, and English daises are another option where an informal-looking
lawn fits the landscape. These mixes are extremely drought-tolerant and offer a
delightful variation from traditional lawns.
Regardless of the type of grass you choose, always plant densely. Thick, dense, and
thatchy well-established lawns absorb and infiltrate rainwater better than thinly planted
plots.
For the Built Green certification audit, be prepared to provide a copy of the
municipalitys guidelines and your design, and photographic evidence of what was
installed.
6-11 Builder incorporates permeable landscaping which is water efficient or

xeriscaped (50% of lawn 2 points, 100% 4 points)
Xeriscaping (or drought resistant landscaping) plans and options can be obtained from
professional landscaping contractors, and once a xeriscaping landscape is in place, it
requires no manual watering. The plan should be prepared by a landscape professional,
biologist, or other qualified professional. Rain barrel usage and astro turf measures are
ineligible for credit.
In the summer, up to 50% of the water used by municipal systems is for outdoor
irrigation. The increased demand in summer comes at the same time reservoir and
stream levels drop and precipitation dramatically decreases, putting tremendous
pressure on local water supplies. Examples of landscaping techniques you can use that
will result in low water use include:
Use established vegetation;
Limit turf areas, choose appropriate turf types and plant in suitable areas;
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(Min. 10 points)
Cluster plants with similar water needs (water-use zones);

Plant native species that will adapt well to the site;
Plant species from other geographic areas with similar climates;
Plant certain species from Mediterranean climates (check with your local nursery
for ideas).
provide a detailed description of the xeriscaping design, a list of drought tolerant plants
used, and photographic evidence of what was actually installed.
6-12 Install efficient irrigation technology that utilizes automatic soil moisturebased sensor technology at minimum (3 points)
This Action Item is very broad, and leaves much room for creativity. These 3 points are
available for showing a storm water management plan & design, for using water efficient
irrigation, sensors, regulators, micro drip feed systems, etc.
Storm water management strategies could include any combination of:
100% permeable surfaces (ie: all softscapes and hardscapes);
soak-away pits;
rain gardens;
swales; or more
and indeed could overlap with other Action Items in this section (eg: 7-11 below).
An efficient irrigation system could be provided with any combination of:
moisture sensing (mandatory);
drip heads;
timer control;
customized watering zones;
high efficiency nozzles;
pressure regulators in the nozzles;
check valves in the nozzles.
For verification, be prepared to submit a spec. of the actual units installed at the site and
the design behind them, and the Built Green evaluation team will confirm visually.
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(Min. 10 points)
6-13 Builder attaches water barrel with insect screen to downspout. Water
barrel should also have a drain spout and overflow spout (1 point).
Rainwater collected from the roof is a free source of landscape irrigation water.
Supplying a rainwater collecting water barrel encourages homeowners to use rainwater
for landscaping needs and therefore saves on potable water. Rain barrels should be
located under downspouts that serve the largest areas of roof. Rainwater should be
screened before it enters the barrel to prevent build up of leaves and other matter.
Barrels should have an overflow piped to a rain garden or infiltration trench
Water barrels may be used for manual watering, or connected to a drip or trickle
irrigation system.
If audited on this item, provide a spec. on the rain barrel selected, and photographic
evidence that it was actually installed.
6-14 Provide a rainwater collection cistern (min 750 L)to offset either indoor( eg
toilet flushing) or outdoor (eg. Irrigation) domestic water usage. (3points
for above grade, 5 points for below grade)
This item is not available in all jurisdictions as building codes allow. A rainwater
collection system uses the free rain we receive and puts it to use in applications where
treated water is unnecessary. Great care must be taken to ensure there is no cross
contamination with the potable water system (see 6-15). This in some jurisdictions
requires an engineered solution. This system must be separate from any grey water
system.
6-15 Install grey water system collecting waste from sinks, shower and/or
kitchen to capture and treat for use in toilets or irrigation (6 pts), rough-in
for future grey water system (3 points)
By reusing wastewater, consumption can be drastically reduced. Greywater, or sullage,
is all waste water generated in the house except from toilet flushing (called black water,
or sewage). Sometimes referred to as reclaimed or recycled water, greywater may
include water from laundries, showers, and sinks. Greywater can be collected and stored
for reuse as a nutrient-rich irrigation source, or can be used to flush toilets. In either
case, use of greywater offsets the use of potable water, and thus conserves potable
water for other uses.
Practically speaking, using greywater imposes the need for a dual plumbing system that
fully separates greywater piping from potable and black water piping, and labels it clearly
as non-potable water, and in some jurisdictions also as not suitable for drinking.
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(Min. 10 points)
Greywater irrigation systems are currently treated as an exception to the code.

Systems are approved on a case-by-case basis as experimental, requiring compliance
with stringent local and provincial regulations. If approved, greywater irrigation systems
are generally required to be subsurface, although some local jurisdictions permit
aboveground irrigation. Factors affecting the approval and use of greywater irrigation
systems include soil depth and characteristics as well as drainage and flooding patterns.
Other guidelines include setbacks for greywater irrigation lines from property or potable
water lines. In cases where greywater for irrigation is acceptable, plumbing for grey
water would be connected to the irrigation system directly. The irrigation system can be
supplied using a tank(s) and a small-scale pressurized pump system.
The use of potable (drinking) water to flush toilets is not the best use of this limited
resource. Greywater is being used for toilet flushing in a number of areas. Although its
use for toilet flushing is not consistently allowed by code, it is increasingly accepted and
it is expected that all codes which do not presently recognize greywater for toilet flushing
will change in the near future as potable water resources in our growing urban regions
becomes more and more limited. Greywater collection for use in flushing toilets requires
dual plumbing distribution lines and a storage tank. Partial credit is eligible by providing
the additional plumbing required to allow for future connection to greywater for toilet
flushing. A greywater rough-in must include a clearly identified greywater drain stack,
separated from the sewer line, and fully isolated supply piping for the intended greywater
loads (typically toilets), where this isolated supply piping is clearly labeled as noted
above (non-potable water / not suitable for drinking) according with industry best
practice.
The full 6 points in this Action Item may be earned by supplying either or both of toilets
and/or irrigation from waste shower water, and optionally also from sink and/or
dishwasher water.
If audited, be prepared to provide a detailed spec. on the greywater system used in your
project, and photographic evidence of what was actually installed.
6-16 Install on-site black water treatment system or engineered wetland for
reprocessing local sewage (8 Points)
Greywater reuse marks an important step towards water self-sufficiency, but black water
(sewage) treatment is the ultimate step towards closed-loop water use on-site. Installing
on-site black water treatment means that no sewage leaves the site, and that all waste
water of any kind is treated and restored to drinkable quality for full domestic reuse.
There are several methods of black water treatment available to builders, but these may
broadly be grouped into two categories: (1) packaged treatment systems and (2)
engineered wetlands. Packaged treatment systems are typically buried, may include
several chambers or treatment stages, and will have custom maintenance requirements.
Engineered wetlands are natural systems that resemble stormwater management
ponds, but which are designed and landscaped very intentionally to progressively filter
incoming waste water through a staged set of ponds that ultimately produce safe
drinkable water at their outlet.
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(Min. 10 points)
Packaged treatment systems are available in sufficiently small sizes to be appropriate

for a single family dwelling. Both packaged systems and engineered wetlands can be
designed / obtained to service multiple dwellings together. Either solution will typically
require an engineers design and/or review to ensure the recycled water does in fact
satisfy local drinking water standards, and local approval authorities may or may not
require dwellings to be connected to municipal sanitary sewers regardless. These points
may not be earned in areas where on-site black water treatment is prohibited.
If audited, be prepared to provide a detailed spec. on the greywater system used in your
project, a copy of the engineers design and/or review, and photographic evidence of
what was actually installed.
Page 66
VII. Business Practice
(Min. 8 points)
7. BUSINESS PRACTICE
Green companies make green products, and green builders make green buildings. The Action
Items in this section of Built Green are intended to reward manufacturers and builders for
having environmentally astute office and business practices: to recognize environmental
leadership of the builder company as well as recognizing the homes they build.
7-1
Products used for home are manufactured within 800 km (1 point for every
2 products - maximum of 5 points).
Transportation of building materials accounts for substantial energy use, and choosing
locally manufactured materials helps reduce this embodied energy, or the energy
represented. Distances are calculated by road lengths, not as the crow flies.
Manufacturing or assembly must take place in a plant or factory, not on-site (ie: on-site
manufacturing will not be counted towards points). Distance to raw material source is
not included. Eligible products refer to the following major elements of the building:
Exterior siding/masonry (over 50% of exterior wall area);
Flooring (over 50% of total floor area);
Cement for foundation;
Interior wall and ceiling gypsum board;
Lumber for exterior/interior wall, floor and roof framing (used for 50% of total
framing);
Decking or patio material;
Insulation for roof, floor and wall (used for 50% of roof + floor + wall area);
Sheathing for roof, floor and wall (used for 50% of total sheathing area);
Roofing material.
7-2
Builder provides Built Green homeowner manual, completed Built Green

checklist and educational walkthrough with sale or possession (3 points).
Without a manual, there is no guarantee that the homeowner will remember how to
properly use and care for their new Built Green home.
It is incredibly important to educate the homeowner on the homes various green building
features, products, and equipment, and on their various maintenance requirements. In
addition to the educational value of the manual, checklist and walkthrough, youll also
benefit from showing the homeowner that you care: the minimal extra effort shown will
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(Min. 8 points)
reinforce your reputation as a quality Built Green Builder serving the community, trying
to make life easier and better for your home buyer. Your Built Green Homeowners
Manual may only include the required information, or it may also include environmentally
friendly extras. We encourage you to be creative with this item.
Consider personalizing the manual by labeling it with the owners name and address,
and be sure to include any specific information requested by the owner. Obtain the
homeowners signature on a sign-off sheet indicating the manual and checklist have
been received, and that an educational walkthrough has been completed. Communicate
to the owner that the information in the manual should be read carefully in order to
optimize the environmentally friendly features you have taken extra effort to incorporate.
Perhaps most importantly, the manual should include contact information for any and all
key service personnel that may be required in the event of an emergency or other
equipment malfunction.
See APPENDIX D for further homeowner manual requirements and suggestions.
7-3
Builders office and show homes purchases a minimum of 50% (1 point) or

100% (2 points) solar, wind or other renewable electricity.
Renewable energy is a the only clean way power our buildings, offering reduced
pollution from green house gases and other particulates, often smaller more localized
construction, an infinite fuel source (sun, earth, wind or water), localized ownership and
economic stimulus, and many social benefits compared with conventional energy
sources. Powering your office and/or show homes with renewable energy is a wonderful
way to walk your talk and show home buyers that you are a company of high standards
and quality character.
For verification, have a copy of your green energy supply contract available for review,
and keep your annual electricity bills for the office and (if applicable) show homes, as
well as documentation from the electricity provider indicating the renewable percentage
of their energy supply, or documentation of purchased renewable energy credits from a
reputable third-party provider. Alternatively, provide a signed copy of a minimum 1-year
renewable energy contract for future electricity purchases.
7-4
50% (2 points) or 100% (4 points) of electricity used during construction of

home is generated by wind power or equivalent green power certificate.
Promoting the use of green power by directly subsidizing it helps new developments to
come online. The money going towards green power is not going towards purchasing
more fossil fuels such as natural gas, coal, or uranium, but helps instead promote new
developments based on free renewable energy sources like solar, wind and water.
If this item is audited during the certification verification process, the builder should be
prepared to produce a contract demonstrating the terms under which the green energy
Page 68
(Min. 8 points)
was purchased, and monthly bills demonstrating that the contract was enacted and is in
force.
7-5
50% (2 points) or 100% (4 points) of electricity used by homeowner during

first year of occupancy is generated by wind power or equivalent green
power certificate. (Prepaid by builder)
Promoting the use of green power by directly subsidizing it helps new developments to
come online. The money going towards green power is not going towards purchasing
more fossil fuels such as natural gas, coal, or uranium, but helps instead promote new
developments based on free renewable energy sources like solar, wind and water.
Promoting this to a homeowner may help them decide to promote cleaner sources of
power.
If this item is audited during the certification verification process, the builder should be
prepared to produce (1) a contract demonstrating the terms under which the green
energy was purchased, and (2) a statement demonstrating that the first year worth of the
renewable energy fee has been paid fully in advance by the builder.
7-6
Builders show homes incorporate permeable landscaping which is water

efficient or xeriscaped. (50% of lawn for 2 points, 100% for 4 points)
See item 6-11, for show homes only.
7-7
Manufacturers and/or suppliers purchase 50% or more solar, wind or other

renewable electricity (1 point per supplier max. 2 points).
Just as the builder can demonstrate leadership by purchasing their energy from
renewable sources (see 7-3 above), so can manufacturers and suppliers. This point can
be earned by obtaining a signed letter from at least one manufacturer and/or supplier
indicating (a) the building component that they provided for the project seeking Built
Green certification, and (b) the percentage of their electricity that was purchased from
renewable sources in the previous year, either through green electricity providers or
through purchased renewable energy credits from a reputable third-party agency.
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7-8
(Min. 8 points)
Builder has written an environmental policy, which defines their

commitment (must include an office recycling program and energy efficient
lighting). (1 point)
Policies and operating statements are a useful tool to help define a company. This
Action Item awards builders who make the effort to adopt a formal Environmental
Policy as a statement of their commitment to the environment, which helps to
emphasize environmental priorities in the work they do and which ultimately helps to
define a corporate culture. This statement should be available for review by inquirants,
and should be made available to Built Green Canada in the event of a certification
audit.
7-9
Builders environmental policy includes and prioritizes milestones for future

net-zero housing developments (1 point).
The greenest energy is the energy that never gets used. Net-zero homes are not only
low energy users, but theyre great for the economy, for building a resilient society, and
for many other reasons. Built Green Canada supports the Canadian Net-Zero Energy
Housing Coalitions vision to see all new Canadian homes built to net-zero standards as
soon as possible, and this Action Item rewards builders who are actively planning to
transition towards net-zero construction.
For more information on net-zero construction, refer to www.netzeroenergyhome.ca.
In the case of an audit, the builder should be prepared to provide a copy of their
corporate environmental policy which includes future milestones for building net-zero
housing developments. This document may be the same document provided for
checklist item 7-8.
7-10 Manufacturer and/or supplier has written an environmental policy, which

defines their commitment (must include an office recycling program and
energy efficient lighting). (1 point per supplier/manufacturer - maximum of
2 points).
Just as the builder can demonstrate leadership through formalizing their policies, so can
manufacturers and suppliers. For each point claimed, the project team should be
prepared to provide a copy of the manufacturers environmental policy document to the
Built Green certification auditor. This credit is intended to award products that have a
noteworthy impact on construction, and the point may therefore not be awarded if the
manufacturer in question supplied only a negligible amount of product to the project. For
guidance, any suppliers which help achieve points on Action Item 7-7 above are good
candidates for this point.
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(Min. 8 points)
7-11 Builders' company vehicles are hybrid or bio-diesel vehicles (1 point per
vehicle - maximum of 3 points).
A commitment to the environment shouldnt stop at construction. Using a hybrid vehicle
produces lower harmful emissions. Diesel construction vehicles converted to bio-diesel
reduce fuel consumption by up to 75%.
If audited, be prepared to provide a letter signed by the builder stating the number of
hybrid and or biodiesel cars they currently own/lease for their business operations.
7-12 Environmental certification for builders place of business (building, office,

etc). (3 points)
Many commercial buildings have been rated with various energy efficiency standards.
This Action Item rewards builders who work in buildings that are either qualified, certified
or rated under ENERGY STAR, EnerGuide, REAP or LEED certified buildings. Other
certification standards may be considered eligible at the discretion Built Green Canada.
If audited, be prepared to provide a copy of the corresponding green building certificate
or award letter that includes the buildings address.
7-13 Builder agrees to construct and label a minimum of 50% of all homes to the
Built Green standard per calendar year (3 points for 50%, 5 for 100%).
Building a Built Green house is an excellent way to support the home owners
environmental wishes, to conserve energy and water, and to fight climate change, but
committing to only build Built Green homes is worthy of extra recognition.
Provide a letter signed by the builder expressing commitment to build either 50% or
100% of all their homes to the Built Green standard per calendar year.
7-14 Contracted trades and/or suppliers have successfully taken and maintained
Built Green Builder Training status (1 point per trade organization, up to
Max 5 points).
Training in advance has always been shown to make projects easier and more likely to
succeed. This Action Item rewards training not the builder, but the sub-trades. Provide a
list of trades, their corporate and personal names, contact info, the name of the project,
and clear indication of who has received Built Green training and what their role is in
the project.
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(Min. 8 points)
7-15 Builders Site Superintendent has successfully taken and maintained Built
Green Builder Training status
This ensures that the field staff understands the program and its intentions. Built Green
Training incorporates NR-Cans R-2000 training as well, so the site supervisor has
training in building science and its application. This will help the site supervisor build a
better home.
7-16 Builders construction site and sales office signage clearly display the Built
Green Logo and promote the fact that the project is registered as a Built
Green Project.
This will set you apart from your competition and show consumers your companys commitment
to sustainable development.
For verification, a photo of the site and/or show home is required.
Page 72
APPENDIX A THIRD PARTY FOREST CERTIFICATIONS

Forest certification is a voluntary, market-based approach to help conserve, protect, and restore
the world's forests. There are currently four Forest certification systems in operation and
certifying wood products for sale Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry
Initiative (SFI), CSA International, and American Tree Farm System.
According to Metafore (www.metafore.org) (formerly the Certified Forest Products Council),
an effective system should lead to continued improvement in forest management standards and
integrate environmental, social, and economic interests.
Metafore uses the following key concepts as a basis for evaluating the effectiveness of
certification systems:
The openness and transparency of its standards development and governance
The objectives of its standards for evaluating forest management
The rigor of its operating procedures.
Of the four systems, in terms of transparency, objectivity and rigor, FSC is currently considered
the most effective system. CSA International, run by the Canadian Standards Association, is
somewhat less rigorous and transparent. And while SFI and the American Tree Farm System
have many strengths, they do not demonstrate the key concepts outlined above to the same extent
as the other programs.
For further information and comparison of certification systems, visit
www.certifiedwood.org/search-modules/CompareCertSystems.asp.
Page 73
APPENDIX B JOBSITE RECYCLING PLAN

Recyclable Materials
What material Condition
How will it be
will you
of material* handled on site?
target?
Who will haul

it?
Where will it
be taken?
Wood
Cardboard
Ferrous metal
Non-ferrous
metal
Drywall
Asphalt
Roofing
Concrete /
Asphalt
Rubble
Other
*Check with your recycler or hauler to see if any specifications or conditions exist regarding the
material being recycled. Examples include size restrictions and unaccepted materials (for
example, treatments, finishes, or fasteners).
Action Items
Complete this Jobsite Recycling Plan and post on site.

Commit subcontractors to recycle in Subcontractor Agreement.
Keep subcontractors and workers aware and informed of Recycling Program.
Require individuals to properly sort recyclables and hold them responsible for mis-sorted
loads.
Track and promote recycling results.
Page 74
APPENDIX C CONTRACTORS WASTE REDUCTION

RESOURCE SHEET
Introduction
This short guide contains information condensed from the Contractors Guide to Waste Prevention and
Recycling. The guide provides recycling and waste prevention how-tos for all members, from
handyman/renovators to large commercial contractors, who want to save money. Municipalities and the
province can provide assistance on reducing, reusing and recycling construction wastes. Other
resources are listed in this guide under Where to Get More Information.
Preventing Waste in the First Place

Waste prevention is even more beneficial than recycling. Why? Activities that prevent the production of
waste, such as reusing building materials not only cuts garbage and recycling collection costs but also
reduces materials expenses. Small changes to building practices and extra attention to detail can add
up to significant savings for the renovator and the environment.
Design to Prevent Waste

Design with standard sizes for all building materials
Specify materials and assemblies that can be easily disassembled at the end of their useful life
Choose durable interior finishes or materials that can be easily removed and recycled when worn or damaged
Consider reusing materials (on-site) or installing salvaged materials from off-site sources.
Prevent Waste On-Site

Set up central cutting areas for wood and other materials. Make sure the crew uses all the reusable pieces
before cutting a new piece.
Reuse concrete forms on the job and on other jobs. Wood forms can frequently be used up to 15 times.
Alternatively, use reusable metal or fiberglass forms.
Construction Methods that Prevent Waste

Consider the purchase of good-quality, previously used items such as cabinets, doors, and equipment.
For wood construction, use advanced framing techniques (e.g. 24 on center, and insulated headers), trusses
for roof or floor framing, finger jointed studs and trim, and engineered wood products.
Consider using wood frame wall panels prefabricated off site
For concrete construction, use precast concrete members.
Practice material storage and handling procedures that prevent loss from weather and other damage.
Purchase to Prevent Waste

Consider the purchase of good-quality, previously used items such as cabinets, doors, and equipment.
Re-evaluate estimating procedures to make sure the correct amount of each material is delivered to the site.
Choose products that come with minimal or no packaging.
Replace toxic materials with less toxic or non-toxic alternatives to reduce hazardous waste disposal fees.
Page 75
Ask suppliers to deliver supplies using sturdy, returnable pallets and containers. Have them pick up the empty
containers when delivering new supplies. Also, require suppliers to take back or buy-back substandard,
rejected, or unused items.
Salvage and Reuse of Building Materials

By reusing items on-site, donating and/or selling salvageable items, you can cut waste and reduce supply costs. If
you are using a demolition contractor, specify reuse and salvage in the contract.
Before
demolition/deconstruction,
identify
potentially reusable or salvageable items.
Determine the savings and cost of reusing,
donating, and/or selling the salvageable items.
Inform the demolition crew of the salvage
procedures and expectations. Careful removal of
these items is the key to their marketability.
Other Reuse Options

Many companies have had success with less formal
reuse options. Consider the following ideas:
Advertise reusable items in the newspaper.

Conduct a yard sale on the job-site to sell
reusable items.
Allow workers to remove wood or other
salvageable items for their own use.
Set out free wood signs. Ask some
subcontractors to reuse or recycle their own
materials. Consider asking for or requiring
documentation to verify reuse or recycling.
The following are just a few of the materials that

can be salvaged, and donated or sold locally:
Appliances
Bathroom Fixtures
Bricks
Cabinets
Carpeting
Dimensional Lumber
Doors
Ductwork
Flooring
Insulation
Lighting Fixtures
Marble
Metal Framing
Paneling
Pipes
OSB &Plywood
Shelving
Siding
Tile
Trim
Windows
Wood
Beams
Page 76
Setting Up a Job-Site Recycling Program

Recycling construction materials helps save money by cutting disposal costs. It also reduces waste
going to the landfill and attracts clients who value environmental responsibility. Other benefits include a
cleaner, safer site and improved community relations. Follow these steps to set up a successful, costeffective recycling program for your job-site.
Start Early
Incorporating recycling up front will ensure that
opportunities are not missed and that the
program is successful.
Use the economics worksheets in the Appendix

to determine potential costs and savings for
recycling.
Develop a Waste Management Plan

Analyze Project Waste
Estimate the types and quantities (tons or cubic
yards) of waste the project will generate. Include
demolition phase volumes
Determine when the project will generate each
waste.
Identify Recyclables
Recycling Options
and
Research
Landclearing debris, wood, drywall, concrete,

rock, asphalt, brick, carpet and asphalt roofing
and other construction wastes may be recyclable
Remember that chipping land clearing debris to
use for mulch or erosion control, and grinding
concrete and asphalt for fill are inexpensive, onsite recycling options.
Decide whether to self-haul recyclables to the
recycling facility or to contract with a recycling
hauler.
For recycling haulers, determine whether you
will co-mingle recyclables or source separate
them for collection.
Select the Recyclers

Contact your local Built Green office for referral
to recycler(s) of the materials you will be
generating on your site.
A Waste Management Plan identifies materials

to be recycled on a project; including materials
subcontractors will be responsible for recycling.
The plan outlines recycling procedures,
expectations, and results.
Filling out the Recycling Checklist will give you
a good start on the basics of a Waste
Management Plan.
Set Up the Site

Work with your recycler and crew to determine
the most effective way to set up the site for
maximum recycling. Some suggestions include
the following:
Clearly designate the recycling bins. Post lists of
what is and what is not recyclable.
Place garbage and recycling bins near each other,
and close to the point of waste generation but out
of the traffic pattern.
Communicate the Plan

It is important to educate everyone on the jobsite about the waste management program.
Discuss waste handling requirements with crew
and subcontractors prior to beginning a project.
Post easy to read signs and provide written
information about the recycling program.
Determine the Savings

Compare the cost of normal construction waste
disposal practices with the cost of recycling to
determine if recycling is feasible.
Monitor the Program

An effective recycling
occasional monitoring.
program
includes
Page 77
Check bins regularly for contamination.

Periodically check the wastes in the garbage
dumpsters to see if recyclables are being thrown
away or if there are additional materials that
could be recycled.
Call the recycler before bins are full to arrange
for pick up.
Track Your Success

Tracking the quantities and cost savings of diverted
materials is important for future estimating. It is
also required for Built Green certification.
Once construction has started, keep the receipts
from recycling and garbage disposal. Furnish
receipts to your companys estimating
department
for
planning
future
waste
management budgets.
Page 78
Making Your Program Work

The small effort needed to prevent waste and recycle on a job-site usually pays off in disposal
and supply cost savings. Here are solutions to some of the challenges faced when developing
and implementing a waste management plan.
Designate a person to manage the details of creating and implementing the program. On residential
projects, this might be the contractor, site supervisor, or crew chief.
Require subs to use the recycling and disposal bins on-site. This allows the most control of recycling
activities. Be sure to provide recycling for the variety of wastes the subs generate.
Alternatively, ask the subs to recycle their own waste, but require written reports. Since many subs
wastes are homogeneous, it is easy to separate the wastes for recycling.
Space Constrained Sites

Choose smaller bins and more frequent collection. There are a variety of container sizes and service
options available through recycling service providers.
Use scrap lumber to divide one dumpster into separate compartments for storing recyclables and trash
on-site instead of having multiple dumpsters.
Use small containers to be collected at end of the day and dumped into a larger container for pick up.
If self-hauling, build custom containers to fit the space requirements using scrap or damaged plywood,
concrete forms, or barrier fencing.
Promotion and Education

Include waste handling requirements in all project documents. This makes it clear from the
beginning that waste prevention and recycling is expected from all crew members and subs.
Treat waste management like a safety program. Integrate recycling training into the safety education,
or design a separate recycling education program.
Share the success. Let subcontractors and crew know how well they are doing by regularly posting
volumes of materials reused/recycled.
Dump out contaminated loads and have the subcontractors and/or crew pull out the contaminants
themselves. It takes some time, but contamination probably wont happen again.
Place small recycling bins on work floor and use crane or laborers to empty the bin on a regular basis.
Page 79
APPENDIX D BUILT GREEN HOMEOWNERS

MANUAL GUIDANCE
The following are examples of
additional materials you may also
want to include in the Built Green
Homeowners Manual as a service to
your customer:
Minimally, the Homeowners Manual

should contain:
A statement from the builder about the benefit
of living in a Built Green home;
A copy of the completed Built Green
Checklist;
If appliances are not included, then a list of

energy efficient appliances, including fact
A list of all the products installed in the home,
sheets and where to buy them;
complete with warranties, operating
Info. on energy-efficient lighting fixtures and
instructions, data sheets, installer contact names
where to buy them;
of all installed equipment, appliances, fixtures,
and landscaping that you have installed;
Info. on environmentally friendly furnace
filter(s) and where to buy them;
A Starter Kit of brochures and fact sheets that
relate to operating and maintaining an
Pointers on how to operating and maintain
environmentally friendly home;
the home for good indoor air quality;
Info. on non- or low-toxic cleaning supplies,
Underground maintenance information assuch as environmentally friendly laundry or
built drawings of utilities and drain lines, and
dish detergent, or paper products with
operation and maintenance (O&M) procedures
recycled-content, and where to buy them;
for on-site drainage systems (include details
such as how and when to clean screens, catch
Info. on native species flower seeds, and
basins, drain lines, and clean-outs), and
where to buy them;
sewage/septic systems (include details such as
Info. on environmentally friendly gardening
how and when to inspect the system, pump the
supplies and where to buy them;
tank, and check settings) if applicable.
A list of pest-resistant and disease-resistant
plants, including native plants and where to buy them;
Info. on critical areas on the property such as buffer zones that should be protected (if applicable);
Info. on how to protect and care for valuable site features, including mature trees (if applicable);
Info. on integrated pest management as an alternative to chemical landscape pest treatments;
Tips on environmentally friendly landscaping operations and maintenance practices;
Info. on pervious surfacing products for outdoor projects/surfaces (to avoid increasing storm water
runoff) and where to buy them;
Tips and instruction on how to optimally operate and maintain irrigation equipment (if applicable);
Operating and maintaining water-using fixtures and equipment to avoid long-term leaks and optimize
use;
Local mass transit opportunities;
Optionally, a list of local eco-tourism opportunities, environmental programs or attractions, library
and/or online resources for environmental non-profit organizations active locally, regionally, and/or
nationally, or a list of local companies doing environmental things.
Page 80

Built Green Single Family Checklist Guide 2012 - January 30 2012

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Built Green Canada

Program & Guide

Revised January 1, 2012

Supported by Natural Resources Canada

Context and Disclaimer

How to use this document

How to Get Started

Built Green Membership

Training Courses offered across Canada at convenient locations

Member Listing on website

Built Green Logo for use in marketing materials

Envelope & Energy Systems

Materials and Methods

Indoor Air Quality

How to Use the Checklist

Action Item Description

How to Enroll Your Project

VII. Business Practices

Built Green for Today and Tomorrow

1. ENVELOPE AND ENERGY SYSTEMS

EnerGuide modelling: As an alternate to using the remaining Action Items

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

Install additional rigid insulation on exterior of above grade walls, above

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

Structural insulated panel system used for at least 75% of roof/ceiling (4

Install additional exterior insulations system on exterior of foundation, R

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

Install R5 (1 point), R8 (2 points) or R12 (3 points) above building code

1-10 Use of insulated headers / lintels (either manufactured or site built

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-14 Install weather-stripped and insulated (R15 minimum) manufactured

1-15 Attached garage overhead door is insulated with R8 to R12 (1 point) or

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-16 Attached garage is fully insulated (1 point).

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-21 Install high efficiency, sealed combustion heating appliance, with a

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-25 Install sealed combustion 2-pipe tank system (2 points), or condensing

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-35 Electric range is Convection based (1 point).

1-36 Refrigerator is an ENERGY STAR labeled product (2 points).

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

1-37 Dishwasher is an ENERGY STAR labeled product (1 point).

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

I. Envelope & Energy Systems

II. Materials and Methods

1-46 Install central, computerized control system capable of unified automation

II. Materials and Methods

II. Materials and Methods

2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

Elimination of headers at non-bearing interior and exterior walls (1 point).

Use of header hangers instead of jack studs (1 point).

II. Materials and Methods

Elimination of cripples on hung windows (1 point).

Elimination of double plates, using single plates with connectors by lining

Deck or veranda surfaces (1 point) and/or structure (1 point) made from a

II. Materials and Methods

Deck or veranda surfaces (1 point) and/or structure (1 point) made from a

Dimensional lumber from a third-party certified sustainably harvested