Deep Energy Retrofit at Sun Ridge Estates in Salmon Arm
Improving Comfort, Cutting Energy Use, and Extending the Life of a Senior Living Community
Sun Ridge Estates has served seniors in Salmon Arm since 1995. After almost three decades, the building still held strong, but it no longer delivered the comfort, efficiency, or reliability its residents needed. Baptist Housing wanted long term solutions, not quick repairs, and they brought Empress Rees Contracting in to lead a full deep energy retrofit.
We modernized the building from top to bottom. We upgraded the envelope, replaced outdated HVAC systems, rebuilt structural components, and delivered measurable gains in comfort, safety, and energy performance. This project shows what deep retrofits can achieve when you take a smart, detail driven approach that focuses on the next 30 years.
Before and During the Retrofit
Before
The building looked tidy, but its systems told a different story. Original vinyl windows leaked heat. Insulation sat far below modern standards. Heating and cooling relied on gas fireplaces, electric baseboards, and old AC units. Residents dealt with inconsistent temperatures and higher energy bills than they should have.
During
Once we opened the walls, we saw the real opportunity to bring the building forward. We removed aging siding, repaired sheathing, upgraded venting, and wrapped the structure with RESISTO weather barrier. The bright red wrap signaled a full transformation. We uncovered wood rot around several decks as well, so we reinforced them and strengthened their structure far beyond the originals.
Key Energy and Comfort Upgrades
High Performance Windows and Door Systems
We replaced every outdated window with Centra 2600 and 6855 series units. These high efficiency windows use Low E glazing and argon gas fill, and they deliver triple pane performance. We sealed every frame with elastomeric sealant and installed multi point locking doors to create a tight, reliable envelope.
Window performance jumped from a U value of about 2.8 W/m²K to new values of 1.47 and 1.5 W/m²K. That shift gives residents about 1.9 times more thermal efficiency and cuts heat loss. These windows play a huge role in stabilizing comfort and lowering long term energy use.
Major Insulation Upgrades
Attic
We brought the attic up to R 50 using CertainTeed InsulSafe blowing wool installed to a depth of 19 inches. This upgrade stops heat from escaping upward and evens out temperatures across the building.
Exterior Walls
We added 3 inches of Rockwool Comfort Board 110 across the exterior. This mineral wool board strengthens the envelope, improves thermal performance, and adds fire resilience. The combination of attic and wall upgrades positions the building far closer to modern efficiency standards.
Suite by Suite Heat Pump Installation
We removed gas fireplaces, baseboard heaters, and old wall AC units. Instead, we installed Olimpia Splendid Maestro Pro Inverter 12HP heat pumps in every suite. These units supply both heating and cooling without an outdoor compressor and only need two 8 inch wall penetrations for intake and discharge.
Performance
- CEER 9.7 cooling and 9.3 heating
- COP 2.9 heating
Expected savings
- 50 to 65 percent less energy for heating
- 15 to 30 percent savings on cooling
- 10 tonnes of CO2e reduced each year
Residents now enjoy consistent temperature control with far lower energy use.
Fire Sprinkler Extension
We expanded the fire sprinkler system to bring the building up to current code. This upgrade boosts resident safety and gives the entire community stronger protection in the long term.
Strengthening the Building for the Next 30 Years
Every upgrade works together to create long term resilience. The new envelope reduces heating and cooling loads.
Working in an Occupied Senior Living Community
We planned the retrofit around resident comfort. By coordinating multiple trades to work together inside each suite, we kept disruptions short and predictable. We used materials like MF bulkheads to reduce dust and keep spaces clean. The building manager provided constant insight into resident needs, which helped us shape priorities and maintain open communication.
What This Project Says About Our Work
The Sun Ridge Estates retrofit highlights how our team approaches complex, occupied building upgrades. We solve problems as they appear. We communicate clearly. We deliver real energy savings and major comfort improvements without cutting corners. We build for longevity, not temporary fixes.
If your building needs serious energy upgrades, a full envelope overhaul, or a modern HVAC solution, Empress Rees Contracting brings the expertise and the hands on approach to deliver results you can measure and feel.
