Indigenous Housing Toolkit

Author/Contributor: Airtight Engineering, ECO Canada

Alberta Context: Developed through ECO Canada’s Codes Acceleration Program for Indigenous Communities, this toolkit delivers technical building science guidance for residential construction. While not focused on Alberta, the toolkit is applicable across Canada, particularly for projects prioritizing durability, energy performance, and occupant health in cold climate regions.

Summary: 

This housing toolkit was created to support community housing representatives, designers, builders, and trades in delivering healthier, more durable, and more energy-efficient homes. 

The toolkit provides accessible information on building science topics including:

  • Energy-efficient design
  • Building envelope fundamentals
  • Ventilation and indoor air quality
  • Moisture and air barrier detailing
  • Thermal bridging
  • Insulation strategies
  • Construction quality control

It also includes worksheets and checklists intended to help project teams maintain alignment throughout the design and construction process.

The toolkit goes beyond minimum building codes to emphasize how thoughtful design and construction enhance occupant comfort, air quality, and resilience. By focusing on practical strategies, the resource helps project teams improve long-term building performance and reduce operating costs through efficient, durable housing outcomes.

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