net-zero home
Protecting our earth means building a sustainable future. By building and buying Net Zero Homes, you’re doing your part to combat climate change and preserve natural resources for future generations
SILEX Fiberglass Windows
net-zero home
A net-zero home is designed to produce as much clean energy as it consumes over the course of a year. This is achieved through a combination of high energy efficiency and renewable energy systems.
It’s a new idea that’s gaining popularity as people become more interested in having a home that is more comfortable and resilient, and also reduces costs to their pocketbooks as homeowners.
Renewable Energy Generation
Key Features of Net-Zero Homes
Superior Insulation
High-quality insulation in walls, roofs, and floors helps minimize energy loss and improve overall building performance.
High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient SILEX fiberglass windows reduce heat transfer, improve indoor comfort, lower energy costs, and help create a quieter home environment.
Advanced Heating & Cooling
High-efficiency systems such as heat pumps help maintain a stable, comfortable indoor climate year-round.
Renewable Energy Sources
Solar panels and other renewable energy systems can support clean energy generation and reduce reliance on traditional power sources.
Air Tightness
A well-sealed building envelope helps prevent drafts, reduce energy loss, and improve long-term indoor comfort.
Comparing ENERGY STAR® New Homes, Net Zero Ready, and Net Zero Homes
ENERGY STAR® Home
ENERGY STAR® is a recognized symbol for energy efficiency. This is achieved through features like more insulation, improved air tightness, energy efficient doors and windows, and better mechanical equipment.
- Use, on average, 20% less energy than standard homes.
- Energy savings equivalent to running a refrigerator for 10 years.
Net Zero Ready Home
A Net Zero Ready Home is a high-performance home designed to be extremely energy efficient, so that it can easily incorporate renewable energy systems in the future.
- Built with infrastructure to support future renewable energy systems (e.g., solar).
- Ready to adapt as renewable energy becomes more affordable and efficient.
Net Zero Home
A Net Zero Home is designed to produce as much energy as it consumes annually, achieving a net-zero energy balance.
- Built with high levels of insulation, air tightness, and energy-efficient windows and mechanical systems.
- Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
Strategies
Greener Buildings in Canada
The “Green” standard in Canada is rapidly shifting toward Net-Zero Ready structures. Here is how to get there:
The “Fabric First” Approach
Before buying expensive solar panels, focus on the shell of the building.
- Superior Insulation: Use continuous insulation to eliminate cold spots.
- Airtightness: Use high-quality vapor barriers and tapes. If air isn’t moving, heat isn’t leaving.
Electrification & Heat Pumps
As Canada moves away from natural gas, cold-climate air-source heat pumps are becoming the gold standard for HVAC. They provide cooling in our increasingly hot summers and efficient heating down to -25°C and beyond.
Adhering to the Tiers
The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) uses a tiered system. Aiming for Tier 4 or 5 puts a project at the cutting edge of energy efficiency.
Net Zero Playlist
Don’t forget to check out the Net Zero Playlist on YouTube!
Learn about the parts of a net zero home, the building envelope, mechanical system renewable systems, and more!
Experience the difference of high-performance windows and doors for both residential and commercial spaces. From cozy home renovations to modern commercial buildings, SILEX delivers exceptional quality, style, and service.