SERVICES
As a frame to finish builder we prefer to work on large projects that take 6 months or more to complete. In most cases the design has been conceived and designed by an architect with the homeowner. With long term projects our staff remain engaged and focused in a way that is not possible on small jobs or production type environments. Architectural projects are unique and pose the kinds of problem solving that career craftsmen like to challenge. Whether it be new construction or renovation, we always focus on high performance building science to provide our clients with a range of energy efficient solutions.
New Homes
Architecturally designed homes
One-off, architecturally designed homes are the reason we started WinJia Construction. Why? We are builders because we love taking a stack of raw materials and transforming them into a client’s cherished place. The rewards for us and our staff are wide ranging. From working on every stage of the project, to executing complex details, to the challenge of building a superior building envelope, and to being on a project for an extended period of time, new home construction is the ideal palate for career builders.
High Performance & Passive Homes
High performance building combines advanced knowledge of building envelope science and energy systems to create a space that is at once durable, practical, infinitely comfortable, and weather resistant. A well designed high performance home can reduce energy usage by as much as 90% simply by creating better insulated wall assemblies, minimizing air leakage, using energy efficient doors and windows, and taking advantage of the sun. In addition to energy cost savings, there are many incentives for building a high performance home in the form of rebates and special offers. You can learn about currently available programs through Efficiency Nova Scotia. WinJia Construction is a member of Efficiency Nova Scotia’s Efficiency Trade Network.
What is passive house design, aka Passivhaus?
Passive house (German: Passivhaus) is a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in a building, which reduces the building's ecological footprint. It results in ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling.
Passive house design is not a trend. The science behind the building envelope techniques and energy efficiency is already standard building code across much of Europe and is being adopted in Canada like B.C.’s Step Code. If you’re interested in building passive, or a passive retrofit on your existing home, then we’d love to hear about it.
WinJia Construction is a member of the Builder Affiliate Program with Passive Design Solutions. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of this program.
Renovations
Our renovations projects tend to be complete renovations or in the very least extensive projects designed by an architect. We’ve completed both modern renovations and traditional homes like our various Chester projects. Anything can be done with the proper planning and budget considerations. We tend to do more complete home construction but we like to entertain exciting renovation projects.
How Much Does a New Home Cost?
The earlier that you involve us in your planning, the more easily we can assist you in meeting your goals and budget requirements.
- Size – smaller is not always less costly and mega large is not always more expensive. Some costs like sewage and water, foundations, and lot preparation to name a few, are not affected much by square footage
- Interior and exterior finishes can make a big difference in the final costs
- Windows and doors can swing the price dramatically depending on the brand and aesthetic
- Lot grade can also be a factor—a steep lot may require a taller foundation wall or more extensive earthworks than a level one
Having said that, we can help you determine a budget range. We work closely with you and your architect to review the plans, provide feedback on constructability and cost effectiveness, and provide advice on materials and finishes. With that information we can create a working budget that will allow you to assess the project in detail and make financial adjustments to meet your needs.