Real Estate WEDNESDAY. AUGUST 3. 1888 • CI

R-2000 system

A revolutionary approach to building, interior environment Since 1982 the R-2000 home, which aims for the utmost in energy efficiency, has gained national status in the housebuilding industry. While this home type may look conventional, its approach to the building process and interior environment labels it revolutionary in both the preconstruction and building stages. Among the differences employed in building the R-2000 home is computor analyses of construction and interior design, which determine the home's energy efficiency before it is built. The R-2000 Home Program was created in 1982 through a cooperative effort by the Canadian Home Builder's Association and Energy, Mines and Resources Canada. The CHBA considered it a way of improving the housing industry's ability to respond to changes in a competitive market, while Energy, Mines and Resources saw it as a means of reducing energy consumption. Since the establishment of the program, R-2000 homes have been built across Canada, and interest from other countries is growing. In the first stage, preconstruction plans for an R-2000 home are put through a computer check, which estimates heat loss and guarantees proper ventilation and a low rate of air leakage. Tests are performed on the blueprints to ensure all standards are met before construction begins. Next, all building and design estimates are detailed by comput-

er in 95 separate categories, allowing owners to know where every cent is going and therefore ensuring they will stay within their budget. Once estimates and blueprints have been approved, an interior design team uses computer analysis to design, along with homeowners, the house interior, making sure it meets with R-2000 standards. Periodic site inspections occur during the construction stage, followed by a further inspection after completion. Once everything has been checked and the home found to meet standards, the house is issued a numbered R-2000 certificate. The owners are given detailed instructions on how to care for and operate their new home. The R-2000 homes are the First in the world to guarantee maximum quality control, efficiency and environmental control within the house. These homes utilize the most advanced technology in design, insulation, materials, heating and cooling and, while they cost aproximately five per cent more to build, they practically guarantee increased equity and higher resale value, regardless of market trends. Ventilation systems in these homes are mechanical, with heat recovery ventilators which circulate air throughout the home, expelling pollutants, dust and odours, and ensuring constant fresh air. Special filters eliminate dust and pollen, providing some relief for those who suffer allergies.

The high-efficiency heating system used ensures a uniform temperature year round. Owners can control the temperature, which is not influenced by humidity, cold, wind or rain. "Strategically placed" insulation in the roof, basement and walls, plus sealed door frames and multi-paned windows eliminate drafts, cold spots and noise. What this means, promoters of the R-2000 program say, is that minimal additions to mortgage payments is more than offset by the money saved in utility bills. Also, R-2000 homeowners do not have to be worried about the effects of increasing energy costs. The R-2000 homes do not look revolutionary. Some have concrete tile roofs and acrylic stucco exteriors (which contribute to efficiency levels) and fit into most neighbourhood settings. Existing houses cannot be converted into R-2000 homes. Construction must be new and all aspects of the special home type must be incorporated at the design stage. Any home design may, however, incorporate R-' 2000 qualities prior to the start of construction. The R-2000 Home Program will provide the homeowner and builder with plans which he or she may or may not wish to change. "Homes for Tomorrow" is the marketing platform for the R-2000 homes. A "parade of homes" involves R-2000 homes on display for the public. Any branch of the Canadian Home Builders' Association can provide information on where these homes are displayed.

Lifeboat drill aboard a B.C. Ferry Corporation vessel

Your guide to Gulf Island properties COMPLIMENTS OF:

FINDER'S GUIDE

Psge C2

GULF ISLANDS DRIFTWOOD

W«dn—dav, Aug. 3. 1988

COLLISHAW

SERVING THE REAL ESTATE N E E D S OF THE FULFORD HARBOUR AREA

APPLIANCE REPAIR Certified

Technician

537-9525

CAKE IS SHOWING. DENNIS

For Complete Moving Services Local or Long Distance — Call

McCully Moving Ltd. 537-5491

AULLER&TOYNBEE

O'HARA

653-4633 537-5537

Box 8, Ganges, B. C. VOS 1 EO

N^. Box 8, G a n g e s , B.C. 5 3 7 - 5 5 3 7

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