Or is it? There is a lot in the news lately about whether this whole Green Movement is based on a hoax or not.  My take on that as far as Green Building goes is, “What does it matter?”  Sustainable development makes sense all the time, not just because it’s a fad or that its popularity has resulted from government policies and concern about Climate Change.

Building more energy efficient housing saves consumers money through lower utility bills and extends existing energy supplies.  Using re-manufactured products or products from forests with sustainable replenishment policies also extends the life of valuable resources.

Reducing product waste helps extend the life of existing landfills in population centers with growing communities.

So building Green saves money, is smart and contrary to what Kermit says, “It is easy being Green”

Blog Written by:Wesley Scott
wes@archwaysandceilings.com
www.archwaysandceilings.com

So there we were last week…cold, snow, wind and then darkness! There were 1000’s of us that lost power last week and let’s face it there is NOTHING enjoyable about being without power!   We were all out looking for a near by hotel where we could keep warm for the night or bunking up with parents, family and friends.  I mean I like my friends and family as much as the next person but there comes a time when you really just want to be in your OWN HOME! People…there is such a simple solution to this problem!

Install A Residential Generator!

A residential generator is installed permanently outside your home and is available in different sizes. After a power outage occurs the generator starts up automatically, usually within 10 seconds, and will continue to provide power to your preselected circuits.  A smaller generator will supply plenty of power to your refrigerator, lighting, television, computer and furnace or air conditioner. A larger residential generator can handle pretty much everything in the home including large wine cellars, security system and multiple air conditioners or heaters. You will have to talk to your H.V.A.C. provider about the size that best fits your home.

At the office we use and recommend the Lennox Home Generator. The Lennox Home generator performs a 20-minute full speed, self diagnostic test each week to ensure it is performing correctly. Please be aware when shopping for and installing a generator that you have something that is safe and reliable. We always recommend consulting with an electrician or your H.V.A.C. company for advice on what is best for your home as well as having one of them install the equipment correctly!

Summer is around the corner and if another power outage does occur instead of no heat it will be… NO AIR CONDITIONING… and I don’t know one person in Dallas that is ever comfortable with those three words!

Various types of leaks may occur in your home and may not present themselves until it rains. There are all sorts of places where water and moisture can penetrate the interior of your home from the outside like roofs, windows, walls, and fireplaces,

Keep in mind that many building materials are very porous like concrete, cinder-block, and mortar. When they are left untreated, it’s inevitable that over time, water will seep through them and create more damage like mold or small and large cracks in the walls and flooring. Keeping your home properly protected from the elements will save on energy expenses as well as keep unwanted insects or rodents from intruding your home.

There are number of solutions which can help repair and prevent water or moisture intrusion such as correct flashing installation, using the correct sealants and the proper application of specific wall systems for these types of problems is significant. Unprofessional or unknowledgeable attempts at these repairs can cost you more time and money down the line. And you may regret cutting corners in these areas.

You also want to be sure you don’t neglect the lower areas of your home. Basements and other below grade areas are ideal for storage, wine cellars or additional living space.  This area can be a magnet to water and moisture damage and it would be greatly beneficial to take all the necessary precautions to ensure that the space is kept moisture free.

Heavy rain, runoff, gutters installed incorrectly or gutters that have been poorly placed and many other factors may allow water to accumulate in the soil, creating hydrostatic pressure over time.  This can cause the basement to crack and leak which can lead to electrical hazards, mold and mildew growth, insect problems and structural and peripheral damage. The damage may look worse than it is and may be easily remedied. Your professional waterproofing company will know the best solutions to these leaks and water intrusion problems. Many of the products used for these purposes are ENERGY STAR^® rated.

Waterproofing protects your home from allowing water and moisture from getting in where it doesn’t belong. But it is not just wetness you’re protecting your home against. There can be serious long-term ramifications from improper waterproofing.

Heavy rain, runoff, poorly placed gutters and many other factors may allow water to accumulate in the soil, creating hydrostatic pressure over time. This accumulation can cause the foundation to crack and leak and may cause electrical hazards, mold and mildew growth, insect problems and structural damage to your property.

Waterproofing is an extensive term and includes the application of coating systems, caulking, and sealants. They all play an intricate part in protecting your property and keeping it air and water tight.

There are an assortment of coating systems, caulking and sealants which help safeguard your exterior walls, concrete floors, windows and water features from moisture, chemicals, and heat and freeze-thaw damage. Many applications are ENERGY STAR® rated and come in a variety of colors, styles and textures which can be customized specifically for your decorative and architectural needs.

It is recommended to allow a professional to fill your waterproofing needs. They are trained to detect any unforeseen problem areas that others may not be able to identify.  This preventative maintenance can help to ensure your family and your home is properly protected for years to come.

(jaz)