The population of Canada’s North is increasing significantly, creating a need for new housing and other facilities. Rising land costs and energy prices have negatively impacted housing affordability. Further, climate action goals continue to push the envelope in energy efficient building design. Canada’s North presents unique design conditions due to several factors. The high winds in regions above treeline, presence of permafrost, material supply and transportation considerations, extreme cold temperatures and energy costs are some of the larger considerations to take into account when designing and building in the North. The goal of this document is to provide designers, builders, and owners with guidance on energy efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective wall designs in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. In particular, this document covers the following wall-related design considerations:
- Hygrothermal Durability
- Thermal performance
- Constructability
- Cost
- Resource Efficiency
Prepared by RDH for CMHC.