Palliser Net-Zero Ready
This retrofit reduced energy by 70% with upgraded windows, enhanced insulation and electrified mechanical.
| Building Type | Single-Family Split-Level | Location | Calgary, AB |
| Year Built | 1970 | Foundation Type | Concrete (Crawl Space) |
| Structure Type | Wood-Framed | Post-Retrofit Total Floor Area | 249m2 |
| Climate Zone | 7a | Heating Degree Days | 5000 |
| Retrofit Status | Complete | Year Completed | 2022 |
| Retrofit Phasing | Yes | Geometry Changed | No |
| Annual Energy Savings | 70.9% | Operational Carbon Savings | 4.42 tCO2eq/y |
| Retrofit Type | Envelope and Mechanical | Performance Level | Net-Zero Ready |
Project Team
- Solar Homes Inc. ( Builder )
- Map Energy Inc. ( Energy Advisor )
Project Priorities
- Reduce Energy Consumption
- Achieve Net Zero or Net Zero Ready
- Increase Thermal Comfort
- Improve Indoor Air Quality
- Reduce GHG Emissions
- Repair and/or Renew Exterior
- Improve Home Value
Upgrades
Envelope Improvements
- Wall Insulation – Exterior – Fibrous Board Insulation
- Attic / Roof Internal Insulation
- Foundation Walls Interior Insulation
- Air Sealing / Airtightness
- Exterior Cladding
Windows and Door Improvements
- Window Replacement – Triple Pane
Mechanical: Heating and Cooling Improvements
- Air Source Heat Pump – Ducted
Mechanical: Ventilation Improvements
- Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)
Mechanical: Hot Water Improvements
- Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH)
Renewables & Storage Improvements
- Solar PV System
Electrical Improvements
- Electrical Service Upgrade
- EV Charging Ready
Project Description
The Retrofit Story
Solar Home Inc. designed the retrofit to create a net-zero ready envelope that would improve comfort and efficiency, modernize the building’s appearance, and increase property value. Since the homeowners remained in the home during construction, the crew prioritized an exterior-first approach to minimize disruption.
They used a Hydrovac to expose the foundation wall, allowing for the installation of two layers of 2" XPS foam board to the exterior foundation wall, increasing the overall thermal resistance to R-30.
Due to limited attic space, the team applied spray foam insulation to boost the assembly’s thermal resistance and reduce air leakage. They sealed the attic and brought the insulation level up to R-51.
A 2×6 frame increased the above-grade walls to R-30, and older windows were replaced with durable European style windows to future-proof the home.
After the envelope was complete, the final step was designing mechanical systems accordingly to avoid oversizing and short cycling.
Before & After
General |
Envelope |
Mechanical & Electrical |
Annual Energy Usage |
Carbon Emissions |
Technical Documents
Photos
Pre Retrofit
During Construction
Post Retrofit
