Renewing Homes – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Détails du podcast

Informations techniques et générales issues du flux RSS du podcast.

Renewing Homes

Ben Hildebrandt

Éducation

Loisirs

Fréquence : 1 épisode/13j. Total Éps: 7

How do we improve existing homes in ways that are durable, practical, and built for long-term performance?

Renewing Homes is a long-form podcast about residential retrofits and the real-world complexity of improving existing homes. Hosted by Ben Hildebrandt, the show features thoughtful conversations with builders, designers, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders working across Canada and North America.

Episodes explore building science, retrofit strategy, house-as-a-system thinking, workforce challenges, policy, and the practical trade-offs involved in improving homes for comfort, durability, efficiency, and long-term performance.

Whether you work in construction, design, research, or program delivery, Renewing Homes is a space for deeper conversations about what it takes to create better homes through better retrofits.

Lire plusRéduire

Site

RSS

Apple

Données mises à jour le 18/08/2026

Classements récents

Dernières positions dans les classements Apple Podcasts et Spotify.

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Aucun classement récent disponible

Liens partagés entre épisodes et podcasts

Liens présents dans les descriptions d'épisodes et autres podcasts les utilisant également.

https://1clickenergy.com/
2 partages
https://www.bchydro.com/
2 partages
https://www.passivehousecanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20231026-Electrification-without-a-service-upgrade-report.pdf
2 partages

https://www.youtube.com/@EdenEnergyEquipment
2 partages

Qualité et score du flux RSS

Évaluation technique de la qualité et de la structure du flux RSS.

Qualité du flux RSS

À améliorer

Score global : 63%

Historique des publications

Répartition mensuelle des publications d'épisodes au fil des années.

Year

Derniers épisodes publiés

Liste des épisodes récents, avec titres, durées et descriptions.

006 - Building a Roadmap to Net-Zero Retrofits

Épisode 6

lundi 17 août 2026 • Durée 59:51

In this episode of Renewing Homes, I explore the lessons from the CHBA’s Towards Net-Zero Renovation Initiative, a multi-year effort to demonstrate what is possible when building science, planning, and skilled teams come together to tackle residential retrofits.

The initiative brought together builders, energy advisors, designers, and other industry professionals to develop and implement deep energy renovations across existing homes. But the goal was about more than achieving a particular energy target. It was also about understanding the barriers to retrofits and developing a practical roadmap that could help homeowners and industry professionals make better decisions over the life of a home.

We discuss the importance of building science, the challenges of scaling deep retrofits, the role of asset management and long-term planning, and why effective retrofit projects depend on coordinated teams. We also look at how the experience of the initiative could help shift the conversation around energy efficiency and inform the next generation of residential retrofit programs.

Key Takeaways

Building science provides an essential foundation for effective deep-energy retrofits.
A long-term roadmap can help homeowners prioritize retrofit decisions rather than approaching improvements one project at a time.
Successful retrofits need to consider the home, the occupants, and the long-term management of the asset.
Workforce capacity, cost, complexity, and homeowner decision-making remain significant barriers to scaling retrofits.
Coordinated teams bring together the different expertise needed to deliver successful renovation projects.
Demonstration projects can provide valuable lessons for improving retrofit practice and developing better approaches at scale.
Reaching net zero is not just a technical challenge—it also requires better planning, communication, and decision-making.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Net Zero Renovations

03:56 The Importance of Building Science

11:36 Goals of the Net Zero Initiative

17:38 Barriers to Retrofits

25:35 Developing the Roadmap to Net Zero

32:05 Shifting the Conversation on Energy Efficiency

37:09 Understanding Asset Management in Home Renovations

43:37 The Role of Teams in Effective Renovation Projects

53:35 Future Directions for Net Zero Renovations

Links

CHBA Net Zero Renovation Program
https://www.chba.ca/about-the-net-zero-renovation-program/

Building Knowledge Canada

https://www.buildingknowledge.ca/

CHBA Advanced Building Science Course https://hub.chba.ca/ap/Events/Register/eZF8XbmsYCWCq

Lire plusRéduire

005 - Rethinking Residential Electrification

Épisode 5

mardi 4 août 2026 • Durée 52:46

In this episode of Renewing Homes, I’m joined by Nathan Horton of One Click Energy Solutions and Jason Rowley of BC Hydro to explore one of the biggest barriers to residential electrification: electrical service capacity.

As more homeowners look to install heat pumps, EV chargers, and other electric technologies, many are told they need costly electrical service upgrades before they can move forward. But is that always the case?

Nathan and Jason explain how energy management systems (EMS), evolving electrical codes, and better planning are changing what's possible. We discuss the practical realities of electrifying existing homes, lessons learned from Ontario's experience, and how collaboration between contractors, utilities, regulators, and policymakers can make electrification more accessible and affordable.

Whether you're a contractor, designer, energy advisor, utility professional, or homeowner, this conversation offers practical insights into removing barriers and accelerating residential retrofits.

Key Takeaways

Residential electrification is about more than switching fuels—it’s about improving how homes perform.
Electrical service upgrades aren't always necessary when energy management systems are used effectively.
Modern load management can help reduce project costs while supporting broader electrification goals.
Codes and standards continue to evolve alongside new technologies and industry experience.
Collaboration between contractors, utilities, regulators, and manufacturers is essential to accelerating adoption.
Education and familiarity with emerging technologies will help make electrification more practical and accessible.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:29 Electrification and retrofit basics

04:20 Barriers to electrifying homes

11:48 Smart panels, standards, and code

16:58 Right-sizing electrical service

22:11 Affordable housing case study

Links

004 - How Curiosity Built a Retrofit Leader

Épisode 4

lundi 20 juillet 2026 • Durée 48:17

In this episode of Renewing Homes, I sit down with Peter Darlington of Solar Homes and Cooper Le of 4 Elements to explore Peter's journey from stucco contractor to one of Canada's leading residential retrofit specialists.

What began as curiosity about net zero homes led Peter to undertake one of Canada's first CHBA Net Zero labelled renovations on his own home… Several years before the label even existed! That experience transformed his business and continues to shape how he approaches residential retrofits today.

Our conversation explores the importance of planning, building science, and collaboration in delivering successful retrofits. We discuss homeowner motivations, the comfort and health benefits of high-performance homes, lessons learned from over a decade of living with a cold-climate heat pump, and the opportunities and challenges of scaling quality retrofit work across the industry.

Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, designer, energy advisor, or policymaker, this episode offers practical insights into what it takes to deliver better retrofit outcomes.

Key Takeaways

Curiosity and continuous learning can transform both careers and businesses.
Deep energy retrofits require thoughtful planning and collaboration long before construction begins.
Comfort, health, and resilience are often stronger homeowner motivators than energy savings alone.
Living with a cold-climate heat pump for over a decade provides valuable real-world performance insights.
Successful retrofits balance technical performance, durability, practicality, and cost.
Scaling residential retrofits depends on simplifying good building science and improving industry capability.
Every home is different, making thoughtful planning essential to achieving the best outcomes.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction to Sustainable Building Practices

01:52 Peter's Journey to Net Zero Retrofits

08:23 Collaboration with Four Elements

Links

003 - Where Does Hydronic Heating Fit in a Retrofit?

Épisode 3

lundi 22 juin 2026 • Durée 56:04

In this episode of Renewing Homes, I sit down with Michael Ridler, Stephen Magneron, and Fellipe Falluh to explore where hydronic systems fit within residential retrofits. We discuss hydronic heating and cooling, distribution methods, air-to-water heat pumps, thermal storage, zoning, and how hydronics compare to conventional forced-air systems.

The conversation also examines the role hydronics could play in an increasingly electrified future. From demand-side management and peak load reduction to opportunities for reusing existing infrastructure, we explore both the benefits and limitations of hydronic systems in retrofit applications.

As with most retrofit decisions, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right solution depends on the home, the homeowner's goals, and the challenges the project is trying to solve.

Key Takeaways

Hydronic systems can provide heating and cooling through radiant floors, panel radiators, fan coils, and chilled water systems.
Existing hydronic distribution systems may offer a pathway to electrification without replacing the entire heating system.
Thermal storage can help shift energy use and may become increasingly valuable as electrification expands.
Hydronic systems can provide advantages in comfort, zoning, and quiet operation.
Converting a forced-air home to hydronics is possible, but not always practical.

Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, designer, or energy advisor, this episode provides a practical look at the opportunities and challenges of hydronic heating in residential retrofits.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hydronics and Participants

03:21 Understanding Hydronic Heating Systems

05:56 Components of Hydronic Systems and Retrofitting

08:53 Peak Demand and Energy Efficiency

11:49 Utility Incentives and Consumer Choices

15:49 Barriers to Utility Adoption of Innovative Systems

Links

002 - Beyond the Thermostat: What Makes a Home Comfortable?

Épisode 2

lundi 8 juin 2026 • Durée 59:10

Most people think comfort comes down to the number on the thermostat. In reality, it's a lot more complicated than that.

In this episode, I’m joined by Allison Bailes and Nate Adams to explore what actually makes a home comfortable.

We discuss thermal comfort, mean radiant temperature, humidity, air movement, HVAC system design, and why two homes set to the same temperature can feel completely different. Along the way, we dig into common misconceptions, practical retrofit strategies, and the relationship between comfort, efficiency, durability, and indoor environmental quality.

Whether you're a contractor, energy advisor, designer, or simply interested in how homes work, this conversation offers a deeper look at one of the main reasons people choose to retrofit in the first place: creating a home that feels better to live in.

Key Takeaways:

Comfort is about much more than air temperature. Mean radiant temperature, humidity, air movement, clothing, and activity levels all influence how we experience a space.
A thermostat only tells part of the story. Two homes at the same temperature can feel very different depending on surface temperatures and how evenly conditions are maintained throughout the home.
Comfort and efficiency are often aligned. Improvements that make a home more comfortable frequently deliver benefits in energy use, durability, indoor air quality, and even acoustics.
HVAC sizing and system operation matter. Properly sized variable-speed equipment that runs for longer periods can often improve comfort more than many homeowners realize.
There is no single solution for every home. Comfort improvements must be balanced against homeowner goals, existing conditions, and budget constraints.
Building enclosures and mechanical systems both play a role. The most comfortable homes are typically the result of the enclosure, HVAC system, and occupants all working together.
If you're trying to improve comfort, start by understanding the problem. Drafts, cold surfaces, disconnected ducts, poor airflow, oversized equipment, and humidity issues can all produce similar complaints but require very different solutions.

001 - Every Retrofit Needs a Plan - With Meredith Hamstead and Cindy Gareau

Épisode 1

mardi 2 juin 2026 • Durée 57:24

The conversation delves into the significance of the Integrated Design Process (IDP) in residential retrofits, emphasizing its role in project management, planning, and the avoidance of poorly managed and executed projects. The value of IDP in residential renovations is highlighted, along with the quantification of its benefits. The conversation emphasizes the importance of investing in the plan and continuous communication throughout the project. It highlights the need for intentional spending and the impact of failing to plan effectively.

Takeaways

Integrated Design Process (IDP) is crucial for successful residential retrofits
IDP facilitates outcomes-focused project management
Investing in the plan
Continuous communication

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:18 Meet the Guests
02:51 Renovations vs. Retrofits
07:09 Defining the Integrated Design Process - Every Home Needs a Good Plan
18:35 Getting the Right People in the Room
23:55 The Cost of Poor Planning
38:10 Houses are Systems
42:22 Respecting Expertise and Creating Better Outcomes
55:09 A Better Name for IDP
57:04 Closing and Disclaimer

Lire plusRéduire

000 - Renewing Homes Trailer

lundi 1 juin 2026 • Durée 07:22

This episode introduces the complexity of residential retrofits and the fragmented nature of conversations in the retrofit industry. It outlines the purpose, goals, content, and format of the podcast, emphasizing a focus on real projects, challenges, and industry growth. The podcast aims to provide valuable insights and perspectives for professionals in the residential retrofit industry.

Takeaways

Residential retrofits are complex
The retrofit industry conversations are fragmented and siloed

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:26 Understanding the Complexity of Retrofits
01:10 Silos Across the Industry
02:10 My Background
02:55 The Idea
03:31 What to Expect
05:36 My Goal
06:08 Who is This Podcast For?
06:40 Get Ready!

Lire plusRéduire

Podcasts Similaires Basées sur le Contenu

Découvrez des podcasts liées à Renewing Homes. Explorez des podcasts avec des thèmes, sujets, et formats similaires. Ces similarités sont calculées grâce à des données tangibles, pas d'extrapolations !

Il n'y a pas de contenu associé à ce podcast.

À propos Méthodologie Contact Me soutenir Politique de confidentialité Mentions légales

Renewing Homes – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Détails du podcast

Classements récents

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Liens partagés entre épisodes et podcasts

Other16

YouTube1

Qualité et score du flux RSS

Historique des publications

Derniers épisodes publiés

Podcasts et contenus similaires

Podcasts Similaires Basées sur le Contenu

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Podcasts Similaires Basées sur le Contenu

Other16

YouTube1