Friday, July 20, 2012

Thermal Break - The Original

"DuPont™ Tyvek® HomeWrap® is the original house wrap, incorporating unique material science that helps keep air and water out, while letting water vapor escape. As a result, it can contribute to improved building durability by helping to protect homes against damaging wind and rain that can penetrate the exterior cladding. This can also reduce home energy cost by controlling air flow and water intrusion which helps the HVAC system work more efficiently and insulation to perform closer to its full R-value." 


Community Preferences

These community aspects are important when homeowners were surveyed about why they want to stay in their current residence.

66% being near friends and family
46% being near parks and areas where it's easy to walk
32% being near work or volunteer locations
65% being near where one wants to go
48% being near church and other social organizations




Staying Put

AARP discovered that 80% of homeowners between the ages of 45-65 are planning on staying in their homes while retired. They also listed the following items as important considerations for future home modifications.
- lever style door knobs
- shower entries without steps
- wider or reduced steps at doorways
- more stable handrails
- first floor master bedrooms & baths
- bathroom aids ( grab bars, taller toilets)

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Water not always a good thing

Broken or ruptured water lines and drains can caused major damage along with huge disruptions to your daily lives. Check your hot water heaters, HVAC units, water filters, ice makers, dishwasher & washing machine supply lines for signs of leaking or deterioration. If there's anything that doesn't look right call your plumber for a 2nd opinion. Most repairs are quick and inexpensive if caught ahead of time. Drying things out, replacing flooring and drywall can really become overwhelming fast and not to mention very expensive.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Exterior Trends

Here are a few things that I've been noticing:
- a desire for higher-end materials when doing repairs and replacements.
- colors continue to play a important role with pulling things together.
- clients want to know more about low maintenance material alternatives.
- texture and trim are being used for added detail and to create character.