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As environmental standards in the building industry continue to rise, buildings face increasing pressure to enhance the performance and sustainability of their buildings. For many, the path to meeting these new standards can seem overwhelming, especially given the financial and structural challenges of upgrading aging infrastructure. Leading the way in innovative solutions is RDH Building Science, a firm dedicated to making this transition both achievable and beneficial for owners. In this article, we explore RDH’s forward-thinking approaches, from developing long-term, customized energy reduction plans to leveraging advanced building science technology. With insights from RDH’s Ian Miller, we dive into how these innovative strategies not only help buildings adapt to current demands but also prepare them for a more sustainable future.
RDH’s Evolving Approach to Building Performance in Condominiums
Canada has introduced a net-zero carbon emissions plan to be achieved by 2025 with reduction policies implemented as early as 2030. Shifting to net-zero emissions is no easy task for condominium buildings, particularly older buildings. It’s important for corporations to recognize this and start working on their plans now. RDH offers support to these corporations through their comprehensive services and long term reduction plans tailored to each corporation and their financial capacity.
RDH has evolved to make key changes to implement better energy efficiency projects for all types of buildings. Notable changes include updated design processes, advanced systems integration, innovative building materials that better support energy conservation, and retrofitting plans.
Advancements in Building Enclosure Technology
The evolution of building materials has led to several advancements in the building science industry. We will explore details when discussing RDH’s Building Science Laboratory. These advancements can be seen on both small and large scale projects. For instance, the majority of older buildings utilize gas heating systems. The transition from gas to electric heating systems is a large upfront expense, which can be daunting for condominiums and buildings on a budget. However, the implementation of electric heat pumps and furnaces have huge potential for energy efficiency improvements and cost savings. Upgrading these systems provide energy efficiency savings, safety and maintenance savings, and of course, less greenhouse gas emissions. These systems are also more compatible with renewable energy sources like solar and wind, helping buildings move towards net-zero energy consumption. Though these larger scale projects are a greater upfront cost initially, the long term savings can be significant.
Not every project has to be a capital project. Ian and I discussed the concerns buildings on a fixed budget, specifically condominium corporations, have regarding the transitions to net zero. RDH works with clients to build net zero plans, starting with the smaller steps! This can be as minor as updating lighting, reviewing the building envelope, air balance testing, and more. From large to small, these projects bring value to buildings through future cost savings and resident comfort.
Overcoming Challenges in Aging Condominium Infrastructure
It’s no secret that the economy these past few years have affected building and condominium owners. Corporations are inclined to keep fees low and stay on budget to keep owners happy. This is arguably the greatest challenge facing buildings and the transition to net zero emissions. RDH acknowledges that corporations need long term plans and strategies to address these updates. RDH will work with corporations to implement these advancements over time, allowing for adequate budgeting and reserve fund studies to be updated and implemented.
Other than financials, building structures, outdated systems and energy inefficiencies are challenges for buildings seeking to retrofit. Poor building structure and outdated systems are typically presented in efficient building envelopes. Such as poor insulation, leaky ductwork, poor air sealing, single-pane windows, and dated HVAC systems. Ian confirmed that these examples are the most commonly found pain points in dated, and at times newer, buildings. These issues can lead to serious sustainability and resident comfort concerns. It’s important for buildings to identify these concerns and work towards updates.
RDH can identify these areas of concern and create a manageable implementation plan, as well as demonstrate cost-saving examples and potential timelines for corporations to show owners achievable results and savings.
Future Trends in Condominium Design and Maintenance
Though there are many routes buildings can take to achieve net zero emissions, Ian stated that the trend at the forefront is transitioning from gas to electric heat systems. As buildings push toward reducing carbon emissions, electric heat pumps offer a cleaner alternative by eliminating fossil fuel reliance. These systems provide both heating and cooling, making them an attractive choice for year-round comfort. Additionally, advancements in heat pump technology are improving their efficiency and performance, even in colder climates, which was once a barrier to adoption. As building codes and incentives increasingly favour electric solutions, many condominium developments and retrofits are expected to integrate heat pumps, aligning with broader environmental goals and offering residents lower operating costs over time.
RDH works with developers and architects to create progressive and sustainable building concepts from the early stages of planning. It’s important to consider these factors as early as the conception phase of a building.
The Role of the RDH Building Science Laboratory
The RDH Building Science Laboratory is one of the more intriguing services provided. The Building Science Laboratory provides a range of research, testing, and education services, breaking down complex data to enable informed decision-making based on science. When asked about instances when the laboratory is used, Ian discussed how commonly it’s used to assess the quality and longevity of building materials. For instance, the quality of bricks has changed over time due to the new era of engineered brick. To get a realistic timeline and study of the building’s envelope efficiency, RDH can remove a brick from the building, assess it in the lab and determine the efficiency of the brick, its moisture retention levels, and more. The lab serves as a great tangible asset to clients looking to get a realistic look at their building and its sustainability.
In a rapidly evolving landscape of environmental standards and sustainability goals, RDH Building Science stands at the forefront, equipping buildings with the expertise and tools needed to navigate the shift toward greener, more efficient buildings. Through an innovative blend of advanced engineering, tailored financial strategies, and a commitment to future-ready solutions, RDH helps address the unique challenges of aging infrastructure while enhancing resident comfort and reducing energy costs. From small-scale lighting upgrades to significant overhauls like transitioning to electric heating systems, RDH’s comprehensive approach exemplifies the power of proactive planning and adaptive design. As more buildings embrace these progressive solutions, RDH's role will remain essential in helping communities create resilient, sustainable living spaces that align with broader environmental goals for years to come.
At Bloom & Co. Property Management, we are always looking to make progressive steps forward and assist clients in achieving their financial and sustainability goals.
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