At Homes by Hendriks, our commitment to building exceptional custom homes in Niagara is rooted not only in timeless craftsmanship but also in meeting and exceeding the latest standards in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. One of the most significant frameworks influencing how we build is the Ontario Building Code (OBC) — particularly the House Performance Packages outlined in SB-12, the energy efficiency supplement to the Code.
If you’re planning a new home build or considering upgrades, understanding these performance packages is essential. Let’s break them down so you can make informed choices about your home’s energy performance.
What Are House Performance Packages?
House Performance Packages are prescriptive paths within the Ontario Building Code’s SB-12 (Supplementary Standard) that define minimum energy efficiency standards for new houses. Essentially, they provide a menu of construction specifications—such as insulation values, window performance, and mechanical systems—that a builder can follow to ensure code compliance.
These packages are designed to:
- Reduce household energy use,
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions,
- Increase overall home comfort.
Each package includes requirements for:
- Thermal insulation (R-values)
- Air sealing
- Windows and doors (U-values and SHGC)
- HVAC efficiency (furnace, air conditioner, water heater)
- Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)
Prescriptive vs. Performance Paths
Under SB-12, builders can comply with the energy code using one of two paths:
1. Prescriptive Path
This is where House Performance Packages come in. You select a package from the OBC tables that applies to your climate zone and follow its requirements exactly. It’s simple, straightforward, and doesn’t require energy modeling.
2. Performance Path
This option involves energy modeling (e.g., HOT2000 software) to demonstrate that a home performs as well or better than the standard package. It allows more flexibility in materials and systems but requires more planning and professional input.
How Are Packages Structured?
The OBC divides Ontario into climate zones (e.g., Niagara typically falls under Zone 5), and provides different packages based on:
- Fuel type (natural gas, electric, oil)
- Heating system type (forced air, radiant, etc.)
- On-site renewable energy options
Each package outlines:
- Effective insulation values for walls, attic, basement, and slab
- Maximum U-values for windows and doors
- HVAC performance standards
- Air barrier systems and ventilation requirements
Example:
A typical Package A1 for Zone 5 with a natural gas furnace might include:
- Attic insulation: R-60
- Above-grade walls: R-22 + R-5 exterior insulation
- Basement walls: R-20 continuous
- Triple-glazed windows: U-value ≤ 1.4 W/m²·K
- Furnace efficiency: ≥ 95% AFUE
- HRV with 65% sensible heat recovery efficiency
What’s New in Recent Updates?
Ontario continuously evolves its building code to push higher energy performance. Recent changes include:
- Tighter air sealing requirements (blower door testing is more common)
- Higher insulation values for above-grade and below-grade assemblies
- More efficient windows and doors
- Greater emphasis on mechanical ventilation and HRVs
These updates support Ontario’s goal of achieving net-zero ready construction by 2030.
Why This Matters for Your Custom Home
When you choose Homes by Hendriks, you’re not just getting a beautifully crafted space—you’re getting a home built to perform. We help clients navigate these complex standards to select the performance package (or energy model) that best suits their goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Benefits include:
- Lower energy bills
- Greater indoor comfort year-round
- Improved indoor air quality
- Increased resale value
- Reduced environmental impact
Final Thoughts
Understanding House Performance Packages under the Ontario Building Code is key to building a home that stands the test of time—both structurally and environmentally. Whether you’re working within a prescriptive path or opting for a fully modeled energy design, Homes by Hendriks is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to build smarter, more sustainably, and with confidence?
Contact us today to begin your custom home journey.
