JDL Homes believes in the importance of keeping up with building technologies and being industry leaders with the innovative products that we use on our projects.

We recently sent a few of our carpenters to a Schluter educational training seminar where they had hands on training to brush up on their bathroom waterproofing skills using the Schluter products such as their Shower System, Kerdi-board, Kerdi-Line, & Ditra.  Below are some videos that showcases what they learned!

What is it? 
The Province of British Columbia has committed to taking incremental steps to increase energy-efficiency requirements in the BC Building Code to make buildings net-zero energy ready by 2032. The BC Energy Step Code--a part of the BC Building Code--supports that effort.

How does it work? The BC Energy Step Code takes a new, performance-based approach rather than the traditional prescriptive approach. The BC Energy Step Code does not specify how to construct a building, but identifies an energy-efficiency target that must be met and lets the designer/builder decide how to meet it.
To comply with the BC Energy Step Code, builders must use energy modelling software and on-site testing to demonstrate that both their design and the constructed building meet the requirements of the BC Energy Step Code. The new standard empowers builders to pursue innovative, creative, cost-effective solutions, and allows them to incorporate leading-edge technologies as they come available.
The BC Energy Step Code also supports consumer choice, by allowing designers and builders to use natural gas, electricity, or other energy sources for their project without imposing a penalty on this decision. This fuel-neutral approach provides builders with the flexibility to make energy-efficient buildings using all available technologies.

Is it required? The BC Energy Step Code is currently a voluntary standard builders across B.C. can use. In addition, local governments can choose to require or encourage builders to meet one or more steps of the BC Energy Step Code as an alternative to the BC Building Code’s prescriptive requirements.

When does it take effect? The BC Energy Step Code came into force in April 2017 so builders have the option of building to the requirements in the Energy Step Code at any time. Local governments can set bylaw requirements for builders to meet one or more steps effective December 15, 2017 (when local governments’ authority to set technical building requirements by bylaw will change under the Building Act).

How does this affect a new build?
The new energy efficiency requirements will affect some of the things in a new build in order to comply.  Such items include:

• Energy modeling 
• Pre-drywall air tightness blower test
• Thicker walls
• Better insulation performance (Structural Insulated Panels, Hot Roofs etc...)
• High performance windows & doors (meeting required U-Values in the City of Vancouver & NAFS)
• High performance HRV systems (HVAC, Heating, & Venting)
• Energy efficient LED light fixtures
• Energy efficient appliances
• Post construction air tightness blower test

All of these items add to the cost of a new build and should be taken into consideration in your overall budget.  There may also be increased lead times depending on the products/materials specified and where they're manufactured. 

For more information visit: www.energystepcode.ca or contact us today!

To view or download the Best Practices Guide, click the icon below:

1. Bring the outdoors in:  If the budget allows, installing folding doors or a moving glass wall system off of your living space is a great way to maximize your living space and increase natural light.  It showcases stunning views and will make a bold statement in any home.

2. Comfortable furniture: Dedicating a seating or dining area with cozy furniture is a must for anyone who loves entertaining outdoors.  Be sure to select furniture suitable for exterior applications which have exterior grade fabrics for easy maintenance and can withstand the elemental forces e.g. sun and rain.

3. Stay warm: You may want to consider incorporating a fireplace or fire pit into your outdoor design.  There are also some instances where recessed or ceiling mounted infrared gas soffit heaters are installed for a clean look.  For an extra level of comfort, be sure to have blankets or throws handy so the party can go on throughout the night!

4. Lush landscaping, water features, & lighting: Incorporate some nice landscaping or a water feature to bring a nice tranquil vibe to your outdoor space.  Be sure to account for exterior lighting that will give you mutli-level lighting which provides a nice backdrop for any get together.

5.  Clear unobstructed views:  If your home has spectacular views consider having frameless glass railings for optimal unobstructed views.

6.  Outdoor Kitchen: If you like to cook consider having an outdoor kitchen equipped with a BBQ and sink.  It's true what they say, most parties often end up in the kitchen!  It's another great place where people can gather and socialize.

For more ideas contact us to discuss your next project, we'd love to see how we can make your dreams a reality! 

JDL Homes has been diligently working on getting our portfolio updated with our latest completed projects! Below are three projects that we had recently photographed by John Bentley.

The downtown Vancouver sub-penthouse project was for a repeat client of JDL Homes.   It features a modern fully renovated kitchen with custom veneer matched walnut cabinets, all new appliances and plumbing fixtures, a glass backsplash, and under-counter programmable LED strip lighting.  We also renovated the bathroom, which features two fog-less shave mirrors, a new vanity, and all new plumbing fixtures!

The Langley estate equestrian barn was a new build by JDL Homes.  You may remember the framing photos from our previous blog here.  We finally got around to photographing this competed project.  It features gorgeous over-height barn doors and a fun colour scheme!

At JDL Homes we strive to use innovative building materials that will give you a better performing home.  Structural insulated panels (SIPs) is another way that we separate ourselves from other builders in the Vancouver market.  Watch our video above as Jeff Langford explains a bit more about them from our W11th jobsite where the first few panels are being stood up in this new build.

What are Nudura Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)?

Effectively Nudura ICFs are a stay-in-place concrete form that consists of two expanded polystyrene panels (EPS), spaced apart in the desired wall thickness. Polypropylene webs (or ties) are spaced 6" or 8" on centre to withstand the concrete pressure and to allow the attachment of wall finishes (damp proof membrane or rainscreen on the outside, and drywall on the inside).

Why does JDL Homes use Nudura ICFs?

-Increased Efficiency:  The Nudura ICF panels comes in 8ft lengths x 18" high so we can put up more walls in less time.  They are also designed to be collapsible so they take up less space when they're transported or stored on our jobsites.  Another great feature we love about these ICFs is that they're reversible, non-handed, and is available in both angled and radiused profiles.  During assembly, they click into place which prevents form uplifts  resulting in plumb walls!

-Sound proofing: The thick multi-layer nature of the forms help increase sound proofing.

-Superior R-Values:  The City of Vancouver requires a rating of R-22 for all basement and above grade walls.  You can achieve R-24 with Nudura ICFs, which is 10% more compared to traditional assemblies.  As a result, it can help with energy savings in heating, cooling, and ventilation, creating a more superior performing home.

-Increased Interior Square Footage: Using ICFs in basements eliminates the need to build frost walls.  We can directly drywall over the ICF panels giving you more interior floor space.

-Cost: Nudura ICFs is 30% less expensive than conventional forms, savings that we pass onto you!

-Less Waste & Saves Trees: Unlike other conventional ICFs on the market, you can cut these panels to the desired lengths and use the remaining portion for another area, decreasing overall waste! 

We at JDL Homes believe in combining traditional values with innovative building technologies like Nudura ICFs panels to build you a quality home with integrity.  We're always looking for ways to improve and to be more efficient without compromising the overall quality and end result of your home.

​Contact us today to discuss how we can help you with your next project and f​or more information on ICFs please visit Vancouver ICF.

JDL Homes Vancouver had the pleasure of presenting the "To Renovate or Build New?" seminar at the Greater Vancouver Home Builder's Association (GVHBA) Home Reno Show this past weekend.  Here's our slideshow presentation in case you missed it!

We'll be exhibiting at the Greater Vancouver Home Builders' Association (GVHBA) Spring Home Reno Show!
The GVHBA's Spring Home Reno Show has one focus -- providing consumers with professional home renovation information. The one-day only event will feature booths of renovation contractors and renovation-related products and services, seminars to provide homeowners with important information in all areas of renovations, and opportunities to participate in Ask a Pro -- free one-on-one consultations with renovation professionals.

We will also be presenting a seminar on "To Renovate or Build New" at 2pm.

The event is free to attend and pre-registration for seminars is encouraged.
Make sure you bring your renovation questions and speak to Doug or Jeff Langford about your next project!

For more information and to pre-register for seminars, click here.

Building or renovating your dream home is one of the most exciting things you'll ever do, but all that excitement comes with a lot of responsibility. Hiring the best general contractor for you and your project is an extremely important decision. That choice will determine the quality of craftsmanship and will minimize emotional stress and unexpected costs. Bringing in the right contractor early in the design process is one of the most important components in staying on budget and on schedule during construction.

Here are a few simple steps to help you hire the right contractor for your project.

1. Get References. Talk with their previous clients who have built projects similar to yours. 
2. Verify licenses. Make sure your contractor is licensed and registered with organizations like the Home Owner Protection Office or The Greater Vancouver Home Builder Associations (GVHBA).  Proper licensing demonstrates a company’s best practices management.​
3. View recent work. Be sure to meet in person and after looking at their portfolio, request to visit a few projects similar in size and style to yours.  Consider the amount of years they've been in business, their experience with dealing with your municipality, and their knowledge of the BC building codes.
4. Understand the contract.  Contracts should have a clear scope of work, project schedule, materials used, payment terms, & budget.  It doesn't hurt to get three quotes to compare, ensuring its "apples to apples".  No matter the size of the job make sure to have it in writing. 

With proper planning and research, you will find the perfect contractor for your project.  Invest the time and remember that spending a few extra dollars in the beginning could save you thousands of dollars in the end, giving you peace of mind.  Contact us today, we'd love to discuss how we can help you with your next project!

Wondering what it means when a company advertises that they are a "design / build" firm, contractor or construction company?

Curious what a design / build team can do for you? Read on.

Many people aren't sure where to start when embarking on a renovation or the construction of their dream home.

The entire process can seem overwhelming; all of the permits, drawings, building codes, trades people, architects, designers, City officials, safety issues . . .

Wouldn't it be nice if you could just hire one trusted team to look after it all?

You can.

Working with a design / build team is cost-effective.

Doug, Jeff and the JDL Homes team have extensive, hands on experience. They can tell you if your choices will work - from both a practical and financial point of view while keeping your design style in mind.

Something as simple as the swing of the doors on your fridge or your dishwasher can cause huge headaches if overlooked. No matter how much you love the appliances in the showroom, you won't love them at home if you can't open the door wide enough to get the crisper out or you constantly walk into the dishwasher door!

JDL Homes can help you make the right selection the first time around.

In construction, as with anything, time is money. Quick, well-informed decisions save you money.

As builders, Doug and Jeff understand structural requirements.

JDL Homes can help you design a space that is workable, meets strict building code requirements and most importantly - is build-able!

There is no point spending time and money on design plans that are beyond your budget to build.  

JDL Homes can help you design a space that you love AND that fits within your budget.

JDL Homes has an established team of trusted design and architectural professionals.

When you hire a design / build team like JDL Homes, you don't need to go out hunting for an interior designer, an architect, a landscape designer, an engineer and a builder.

We have a team of designers, engineers and architects whom we work with on a regular basis. We have developed strong working relationships over the years and our clients reap the benefits.