Step Code 4 for Homes starting January

Step Code 4 for Homes starting January 2025 in New Westminster

As you might know, all municipalities are implementing higher levels of energy-efficient homes on a yearly basis, and if you want to build any new homes, you should be prepared for this action sooner or later.
The City of New Westminster is indeed implementing Step Code 4 for all new single-family home construction starting January 1, 2025. This is a significant step towards improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in the city. You can see their announcement on this link.

Here’s a brief overview of what this means:

  • Higher Energy Efficiency Standards: Step Code 4 sets higher standards for insulation, airtightness, and mechanical systems in new homes.
  • Reduced Energy Consumption: By meeting these standards, new homes will consume less energy for heating, cooling, and hot water.
  • Lower Carbon Footprint: Lower energy consumption translates to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Potential Cost Savings: While initial construction costs may be slightly higher, long-term energy savings can offset these costs.
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If you’re planning to build a new single-family home in New Westminster, it’s important to be aware of these new regulations and work with a builder who is experienced in meeting Step Code 4 requirements.

As you might know, the city of North Vancouver has started the step code 4 requirement since November 2023.

We helped many homeowners achieve the goal of building energy-efficient homes, including Step Code 4 homes. Call us today to get assistance.

How a Step Code 3 Home is More Energy Efficient

How a Step Code 3 Home is More Energy Efficient

Step Code 3 is a higher standard of energy efficiency in building construction, specifically for wood-frame residential homes. It goes beyond the minimum requirements of the base building code to provide significant energy savings.

Vancouver duplex
Vancouver duplex

Here’s how a Step Code 3 home achieves greater energy efficiency:

Enhanced Insulation

  • Thicker insulation: More insulation is installed in walls, ceilings, and floors, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
  • High-performance materials: Insulation with higher R-values, such as spray foam or dense-packed cellulose, is often used for better thermal resistance.

Improved Air Sealing

  • Air barrier: A continuous air barrier is installed to prevent air leakage, which can significantly reduce energy loss.
  • Careful sealing: Doors, windows, and other openings are sealed tightly to minimize drafts.
Vancouver multiplex
Vancouver multiplex

Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems in Step Code Home

  • High-efficiency HVAC: Heating and cooling systems with higher efficiency ratings are used to reduce energy consumption.
  • Heat recovery ventilators: These systems capture heat from exhaust air and transfer it to incoming fresh air, improving energy efficiency.

Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting

  • High-efficiency appliances: Appliances with ENERGY STAR ratings are used for reduced energy consumption.
  • LED lighting: LED lights are used throughout the home for their energy efficiency and long lifespan.

Solar Energy Integration (Increase value in Step Code Home)

  • Solar panels: Some Step Code 3 homes may incorporate solar panels to generate their own electricity, further reducing reliance on the grid.

By implementing these measures, a Step Code 3 home can significantly reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

Would you like to know more about the specific requirements of Step Code 3 or other energy-efficient building practices? Contact us for more details in how a step code 3 home more energy efficient.