Mould: A building’s biological bomb

The design/construction industry’s efforts to save energy may have also inadvertently created a biological time-bomb. Leaps have been made in tightening buildings and making them more energy-efficient, but pollutants—such as moisture, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other gases—can build up to alarming concentrations. Both homeowner and facility managers are offered the allure of energy-saving design with tighter windows and doors, high-efficiency furnaces, and closed chimney ventilation. Although friendly on energy bills, owners are not always fully aware of potential health dangers associated with these improvements.

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Mostly positive prospects for Ontario’s construction industry

The Ontario construction industry should anticipate a good, but not remarkable year, according to TD Bank Financial Group’s deputy chief economist. Speaking in Toronto at the Ontario Construction Secretariat (OCS) conference in early March, Derek Burleton predicted a moderate rate of growth for the province, thanks to the non-residential sector in the wake of a residential building slowdown.

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Specifying fibre-cement for a high-end home

With its uninterrupted ocean vistas of pristine blue water and views of the city, West Vancouver is home to some of the most sought-after and expensive real estate in the region. When custom homebuilder and architect, Farzin Yadegari, began construction on his own house in the area, he had to find cladding that would speak to both form and function. It needed to fit the high-end esthetic of his neighbourhood, while also being able to withstand the harsh weather conditions and moisture of the local environment.

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