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You'll hear the phrase, "Deep Energy Retrofit" used a lot these days, and it signals a change in the renovation industry toward greater expectations for energy performance in existing buildings.

The first step of a Deep Energy Retrofit (DER) is to inspect and measure the existing building to determine how it behaves currently.

BE AWARE: If the inspection reveals structural issues, hazardous materials or assemblies that are in critical shape, THE PROBLEMS MUST BE ADDRESSED AND CORRECTED before the retrofit can proceed!

• Structural problems - Older buildings may have saggy floors and punky sills, but if there's something wrong with the structure, be honest and up front with the client. You can't ignore a problem that could result in injuries or structural failure. PUT IT IN WRITING AND GET AN EXPERT TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM!!

• Hazardous materials - If there are hazardous materials like lead, asbestos or vermiculite - Make the client aware and call in remediation. Do NOT start the work until the material in question is taken care of.
• Water pooling, flood damage, staining - The building inspection may reveal water damage in the basement, on ceilings or in the attic space. These signs may mean a major intervention to remedy the problem. Watch for:
  • Spalling or discoloured, deteriorating brick, concrete or stone
  • Water stains and signs of damage from ice dams at ceiling and wall intersections,
  • Spongy floors, drywall or tiles in bathrooms and kitchens.

DEEP ENERGY RETROFITS CAN and SHOULD BE DONE!

Retrofit Canada is an open source, deep retrofit organization based in Edmonton, Alberta that is leading the charge for performing DER's on homes all over Canada. You can see their work and discover HOW they did it with drawings, specifications and details outlined in their "Case Studies".