This was a feasibility study that we were commissioned to do in order to demonstrate the potential of a lot for sale in West Vancouver. It is often worth investigating the site and its possibilities early in the process to ensure that the site is right for its owner. Topography and sunlight access are just some of the elements that will influence the final design.
Doors are installed similarly to windows. A 2×4 ripped is offset at jamb and head. The door frame rests on plywood spacers and is glued/sealed with adhesive foam. The frame is over a self-adhered flashing at sill which itself sits above rigid EPS at concrete foundation.
As mentioned in part 1 of the series this wall detail takes a high vapour permeance or breathable approach in contrast with a more vapour closed system such as traditional 6 mil poly, spray foam insulation, or SIPS panel.
The South facing sunshades on the Langley Passive House are permanent, sized to reject the overheating summer sun while allowing passage of the winter sun through the windows to heat the home, and fit the architectural style of the home.
The Langley Passive house is a ‘split-insulated’ wall assembley pioneered by RDH Building Engineering for the BC climate. This strategy is described in the Building Enclosure Design Guide (HPO 2011) and Guide for Designing Energy Efficiency Building Enclosures (FPInnovations 2013) both by RDH.
