Inspirational Home Redesigns

As the cost of solar comes down and energy prices go up, home solar arrays are looking more and moreattractive.  Across the country homeowners are putting up solar at a record pace.  In April, a study released by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory showed that solar electric added an average of $5.50 per watt to the value of a home.  So, my familys 8.1 kW system could add between $44,550 – $54,000 to the value of our old Victorian home.

Solar panels may seem even more appealing to you when I tell you that our July 2011 total energy bill was -$89.06 (note that is a minus sign in front of the dollar sign).

But, dont go racing for the green bling just yet.

Why spend money on renewable energy that you are going to waste?  I

Read more…

Insulating your attic is one of the easiest cost reduction plans that you can implement for your home. You will be able to maintain a comfortable home throughout the year without spending a fortune on utility bills. It’s a simple project that virtually anyone can accomplish in a short period of time. However, there are a few things to consider regarding your health and the proper types of insulation, should you decide to install it yourself.

Determining the Best Insulation for Your Area The type of insulation that best suits your home will largely depend on the climate of your region. Y

Read more…

Scott’s Question: I always see ads like “improve your attic ventilation” and I thought that these ads were for resolving problems with moisture.

A few years ago I had aluminum soffits installed. I found out that the sub trade had installed the aluminum soffits onto the existing plywood sheeting soffit (which was what I wanted), but they didn’t make the existing vent holes larger or remove the existing screening.

Last weekend I went up there and the temperature was 32 degree C when outside on the ground it was 27 degree C. Now I have no problems, but I am concerned with air flow and high temperatures. Am I too concerned or what is the best simplified solution I should take? Read more…

There is no reason for your small backyard to restrict your personal sense of style. There are many ways to make use of that small space that are sure to impress your guests with every visit. It just takes a little creativity, the right tools, and some know-how. Keep reading to find out how easy and fun creating an outdoor oasis for even the smallest backyard is.

Choosing the Right Materials Traditional wood decks are typically not recommended for small backyards, especially if the home is level with the ground. Instead, you should choose concrete, bricks, stone, or some combination of these.

Read more…

Here is a quick way for cleaning microwave ovens.

NOTE: If the microwave continues to have a funky odor, put some lemon juice in a glass cup and boil. To control odor, you can store a box of baking soda in the microwave between uses.

Read more…