ArchivesFebruary 28, 2011The Home Improvement Season: Preparation TipsSpring time is closing in. Its pace may not be as hurried as some would like, but I am confident warmer weather is on the way. Spring is usually when homeowners begin their home improvement projects. The days leading up to spring can be spent enjoying the last of your yard work free weekends or preparing for your projects. Whether you are replacing your home windows, remodeling your kitchen or adding a patio, planning is essential. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare for the beginning of the home improvement season. Read more… February 22, 2011Small Homes Yield Big RewardsThe only thing that remains the same is change. Given the number of problems in the housing industry, we had to expect something had to change. This change may surprise you though. Turns out, big homes are decreasing in popularity. People are starting to consider smaller homes that use less energy. This creates a smaller price tag and less spent on home energy. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently conducted a “Home Design Trend Survey” and the results left me surprised. Respondents declared an increase in projects that promote property improvements, accessibility and flexible design. What is surprising, is only 2% of respondents indicated they were planning on increasing their lot size. Read more… January 31, 2011Maryland Home Insulation Battle: Cellulose vs. Fiber Glass Round 2[To learn more about getting your Maryland, Virginia or Washington DC Home Insulated, please visit Long Insulation.]
When it comes to home insulation, many consumers will have to make the decision between cellulose and fiber glass. Both materials will help you save energy, but which is right for you? What better way to decide than seeing both square off face-to-face, fiber-to-fiber. Last round we saw Cellulose was clearly the better material for reducing unwanted noise. Can Fiber Glass bounce back in round 2? We will see how well it handles excessive moisture compared to Cellulose. Read more… January 25, 20115 Forgotten Energy VampiresThese days, it seems like you can’t swing a bag of garlic without hitting something vampire related. From television shows, to tween romance novels to even my beloved comic books everywhere is a nesting ground for vampires. We rarely ever consider the vampires we encounter in real life. I’m speaking of energy vampires. The appliances and practices we use daily that suck up energy unbeknownst to the user. Alone, they are not a fearsome force, but when you have several operating in your home simultaneously the costs really add up. After the jump, we will point out 5 ways you are unknowingly wasting energy. Read more… December 20, 2010Energy Efficient Tax Credits ReturnThe very popular energy efficiency tax credits provided by the American Recovery Act are coming to an end. The end of 2010 will also mark the final day that a homeowner can claim these tax credits. Many thought this to be the end of a well received initiative. However, It seems there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Read more… |