{"id":29734,"date":"2025-03-29T16:12:01","date_gmt":"2025-03-29T23:12:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/essential.construction\/news\/b-c-builder-uses-hemp-insulation\/"},"modified":"2025-03-29T16:12:01","modified_gmt":"2025-03-29T23:12:01","slug":"b-c-builder-uses-hemp-insulation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/essential.construction\/news\/b-c-builder-uses-hemp-insulation\/","title":{"rendered":"B.C. Builder Uses Hemp Insulation"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"-\"Wilden<\/a>, sustainably-minded developer in Kelowna, B.C., has introduced Okanagan\u2019s first home \u2013 and one of the first in British Columbia \u2013 to be built with hemp insulation, a pioneering step in sustainable residential construction. Located at 278 Summer Wood Drive, this innovative home embodies Wilden\u2019s core philosophy of blending cutting-edge energy efficiency with healthy, eco-friendly materials to offer future homeowners an unparalleled living experience.<\/div>\n

Designed to meet British Columbia\u2019s highest energy efficiency standards, this five-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home spans 2,430 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, plus a fully finished 847-square-foot legal suite. It is located in Wilden\u2019s Echo Ridge neighbourhood at one of the trail heads leading up to Wilden Ridge, a hiking area with stunning lake views. From Wilden it\u2019s only a short drive to downtown Kelowna, UBC Okanagan, and the airport.<\/p>\n

A high-performance, carbon-negative material, hemp boosts thermal efficiency, enhances soundproofing, and improves indoor air quality. Unlike traditional insulation, it is non-allergenic, low in VOCs, and free from synthetic toxins, offering a healthier, more sustainable alternative.<\/p>\n

Hemp naturally absorbs and stores CO\u2082, sequestering 1.5 to two times its weight in carbon during its rapid three-to-four month growth cycle. By replacing fiberglass with hemp in this house, the embodied carbon was reduced significantly.<\/p>\n

Built to meet B.C. Energy Step Code 5 standards, this net-zero ready home is designed for optimal energy efficiency, reduced consumption, cost savings, and a lower environmental footprint.<\/p>\n

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Key Features include:<\/p>\n

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    Solar-Optimized Design: Roof layout designed to accommodate future solar panel installation and make the home fully net zero.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Airtight Construction: Under 1 ACH (air exchange per hour) thanks to high-performance envelope and sealing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    High-Efficiency Heating & Cooling: An air-source heat pump with a small gas furnace backup ensures year-round climate control.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Heat Pump Water Heater: Reduces reliance on natural gas, lowering energy costs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    EV Charging Ready: Pre-wired to support electric vehicle charging.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    By integrating hemp insulation, high-performance energy systems, and airtight construction, this project demonstrates a scalable approach to sustainable homebuilding in British Columbia.<\/p>\n

    \u201cBuilding with hemp insulation represents an exciting step forward in sustainable construction,\u201d said Karin Eger-Blenk, CEO of the Wilden Group. \u201cThis home reflects our commitment to reducing the environmental impact not only when it comes to home operations, but also in selecting better materials.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Wilden invites prospective homeowners and sustainability enthusiasts to experience this groundbreaking and first-of-its-kind hemp-insulated home in Kelowna at an exclusive Open House on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 12-5 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the innovative features, speak with the Wilden team, and learn more about the future of energy-efficient living in Kelowna.<\/p>\n

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