HolmesMagazine Feb2011

The Manual for Every Homeowner
RENOVATION' CHECKLIST
-PLAN
AVOID ECOSALES SCAMS

GROW YOUR GARDEN WITH BATH WATER
-BUDGET
-HIRE
- ~:
. - ",1~.'
. ,: .-..~~ WAYS TO RENOVATE RESPONSIBLY
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8 FROM MIKE 16 DISASTER LETTERS
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141NBOX
FEBRUARY
2011
106
ECO-GOODS
Denim insulation, glass tile and wine barrel flooring .... Green reno materials never looked so good
108
HOW TO BUY A
WINDOW
We translate the jargon-and point out the must-have features
63
THE SIZE IS RIGHT
Why building smaller can yield big savings
68
25 WAYS TO GREEN
YOUR HOME
Our roundup of moves to reduce your carbon footprint and boost the value of your abode
80
SIX SUSTAINABLE WONDERS
Houses that make their own electricity and use rainwater to wash clothes
112
FINAL WORD
Signs you may have fallen for some companies' bad eco-marketing
104
ON THE ROAD WITH MIKE HOLMES
Our cover guy visits seven U.s. cities bringing help-and his magazine-to you
FEBRUARY 2011 holmesmagazine.com
WELCOME TO OUR GREEN ISSUE. WHAT SHADE OF
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green are you? I say it all the time-everyone's talking green, but who's practidng what they preach? And what does the term really mean? For me, building green means building better-making the right choices in materials and design so that you save energy and conserve resources. It means building right-as in "the right size" for your family's needs, so your home is more efficient and environmentally responsible. And it means building sustainably-so your home will outlast you and not require extensive repairs or replacement during your lifetime. I also love hearing what people think green design means. Nothing is more interesting to me than looking at how new building technologies, like solar panels and structural insulated panels (SIPs), can be used alongside ancient techniques like passive solar design and geothermal energy. It's all about taking the best of what we know today and using it in creative ways to make home-building better. Whether it's urban infill housing, or a house in the country; building new or a renovation anywhere-there's always an eco-friendly element you can use to improve your home's performance (see "25Ways to Green Your Home," page 68). In this issue, we'll also tell you how to hire the right builder, and how to avoid greenwashing (when a builder or supplier makes false or misleading daims about the environmental benefits of their process or products). And we'll update you on living roofs, wind power and graywater reuse. I hope you enjoy the magazine. From regular departments like 'Ask the Pro," on page 20, to artides like "Reno Prep 411,"on page 54-a checklist of helpful tips to ensure your renovation goes smoothly-this issue is full of practical, real-world information you need to keep your project on the right track. If you've got questions you'd like answered in an upcoming issue of Holmes Magazine, send me an e-mail atcomments@holmesmagazine.com. Make it Right"
I::::,-~.~.~
~iI~
Front the Editor
Take Your Time

PLEASE READ TillS MAGAZINE CLOSELY. EVERY-
''Alarge part of the green ethos is to never take a shortcut that costs you dearly later. "
one is in a hurry nowadays, including me. To bring you this issue. To share my excitement about joining Holmes Magazine. (Just like you, I'm a huge fan of the show!) But a large part of the green building ethos we promote on the following pages is to never take a shortcut that saves time now;but takes a toll later-on natural resources, your wallet, or your family's health. It's a philosophy I can relate to, since my uncles (two carpenters, one licensed electrician) all worked by my carpenter grandfather's favorite maxim "measure twice, and cut once." He never rushed at the expense of quality work and he salvaged materials to save clients money; before anyone called that green. You too will save money by setting aside time to plan your projects (see "Reno Prep 411," page 54). It also won't hurt to spend a moment reviewing the 25 ways we found for you to make your home more ecofriendly-and cut your bills (page 68). Our huge roundup of sustainable houses will inspire you to consider builders who can harness nature to banish utility costs ("The Eco-Smart House," page 80). Examples came from those who know the pitfalls that result from cutting corners. It's the sort of information shared by the most trustworthy; conscientious contractors. Hmm. Sounds like someone else I know.
Kelly Beamon, Editor
10
HOlMES
Publisher/Editor in Chief Mike Dunphy Editor Kelly Beamon Creative Director Nicholas E. Torello Contributing Editors Charlotte Barnard, Lisa Higgins, Briony Smith Staff Writer Christopher Reynolds Copy Editor Angie Mattison Contributing Copy Editor Laura Brown Research Assistant Nikki Lockington Editorial Assistant Natalie Gallo Contributing Art Directors Bobby Lawhorn, Tom Lowe, Alex Waddell Designers Jordan Beresford, Taryn Gibb Photographer Alex Schuldt Technical Illustrator Kurt Latanville Webmaster Bobby Kirkland
THE MAGAZINE TO MAKE IT RIGHT~
CONTRIBUTORS Writers Denise Gee, Scott Gibson, Lia Grainger, Greg Hudson, Jefferson Kolle, Dave Lieber, Stephanie Aurora Lewis, Lisa Mowry, Cara Smusiak, Shelley White Photographer Jerry Swanson Illustrator Frank Stockton Associate Publisher Jon Connor Vice-President, Production Charlie Ferguson National Account Manager JC Kennedy Technical Adviser David Hornblow, MAATO, ceco National Account Manager John McDowell Legal Counsel Mark Johnson, Paul Schabas National Account Manager Rebecca Shevel Executive Assistant Fay Maclachlan Sales Administrator Stephanie Young Controller Celina Rail Administrator Caryl Sinasac Finance Administrator Dianne Rogers U.S. National Account Managers NEW YORK Nicola Clayton 212-619-6009 NEW JERSEY Frank Colonno 201-962-2759 FLORIDA Rick Dixon 813-960-1999 NEW JERSEY John Knecht 732-662-9988 ILLINOIS Gary Seitz 708-655-0258
NORTH CAROLINA CONNECTICUT Eugene Granelle RickJohnson 704-662-9413 203-461-1946 CALIFORNIA John McCarthy 818-7068066 ILLINOIS Tony Sarantakis 847-934-2515
THE HOLMES GROUP President Mike Holmes Chief Executive Officer, Media Pete Kettlewell Chief Executive Officer, Operations Michael Quast Communications Director Liza Drozdov Director, Holmes Homes Seth Atkins, BS, SA, M. ARCH, MRAIC,
LEED AP
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. Reproduction without
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For subscription questions in Canada, call 905-946-8790 or e-mail: subscriptionscanada@holmesmagazine.com. To subscribe, visit www.holmesmagazine.com. For advertising and marketing inquiries, please contact jonC@dauphinmedia,com. Holmes Magazine (ISSN 1920-2423) is published 10 times a year in February, March, April, May, June/July, August,
September, October, November and December/January by Dauphin Media Group Limited, Toronto, ON Canada,
M9W 4Y5 with Palm Coast Data acting as agent for this Foreign Publication with address at 11 Commerce Blvd., Palm Coast, FL 32164_ USPS Periodicals Postage paid at Palm Coast, FL32137 and additional mailing offices. USPS POSTMAS1ER: Send address changes to: Holmes Magazine, PO Box 433158, Palm Coast, FL32143-9897. Volume 2, Issue 2. CANADA POST POSTMASTER:Send address changes to: Holmes, The Magazine To Make It Right, PO Box 819 Stn. Main,
Markham, ON L3P BA2. Unless specifically requested to do so by Holmes Magazine in writing, manuscripts, photographs and other materials submitted must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. Postage must be prepaid. While all precautions have been taken to ensure accuracy in the execution of articles and advertising found in Holmes, The Magazine To Make It Righ~, we accept no responsibility for errors herein, nor liability for accidents, material losses or injuries resulting from use of information supplied within the magazine. The Holmes Group, Dauphin Media Group, their respective affiliates and Mike Holmes do not promote or endorse any of the products or services advertised by a third-party advertiser in this publication, unless otherwise specifically stated in the advertisement.
[Y3
Dauphin Media Group
I Inbox
A green roof can last 50 years or longer. Page 39
IN WITH THE OLD ...

I like the direction the content took in the September/October 2010 issue, with" Getting Into Hot Water," "Foundation Fundamentals," Let There Be Light," "Laundry Room Clean- Up," and the entire "AllAbout Basements" section. Very practical! I'd like to see more about renovations of older homes (since I have one), including integrating copper wiring with aluminum, and how to insulate and add a vapor barrier. These houses are not as airtight or efficient as newer homes. RALPH FRESE, CALGARY, AB I love the magazine -lots of information. I was excited to see the waterproofing article in the September/October 2010 issue ["How to Keep Your Basement Dry"]. Unfortunately; it shows the perfect blockwall basement of a newer home and I live in one that was built in the late 1800s where the foundation wall is rubble rock-not something you want to dig around, inside or outside. I was hoping the magazine would touch on how to waterproof this type of wall. P. BURNS, BROCKVILLE, ON
Keep an eye out in the spring, Ralph and Ms. Burns, for a new feature on renovating older homes! .
You can make your home look bigger by adding windows-more daylight gives the illusion of more interior space. Page 63
o
Want to save water? Place a soaker hose in the garden. It's more efficient than using a sprinkler. Page 68
WIN THIS!
We want to hear from you! Visit holmesmagazine.com to share your comments on the magazine for a chance to win a copy of Practical Green Remodeling by Barry Katz.
GREAT JOB!
To do what you do is unbelievable. At the end of the day;you can sleep knowing you did something to help someone in need. I am a union sheet -metal journeyman and I see some crazy things, too-we're always fixing projects that are installed improperly. Thanks for the great job.
JOSEPH JACKOBS, DORR, MI
ROBIN HOOD OF RENOVATION

I just want to tell you how much my husband and I love Mike Holmes and what he does. I call him the Robin Hood of Renovation. If there were more people in this world like Mike, it would surely be a better place. He is a blessing: a refreshingly honest, scrupulous and caring man-we are lucky to have him. Keep up the good work! DONNA RUGGIERO, WEST HAVEN, CT
FIRST TIMER
Love the magazine. As a first time homeowner, I think the information and ideas are great.
OWEN DAVIES, COLD LAKE, AB
Go to: holmesmagazine.com
Published letters may be edited for length and clarity.
14
FEBRUARY
2011
holmesmagazine.com
I Disaster Letters
A CLOSE FRIEND OF OURS NEEDED SOME WORK DONE
on her home. An icicle from the neighbor's house had fallen off and broken her skylight. When I checked it out, I discovered that the previous owner installed the skylight wrong. The flashing was incorrect, and as a result, water got behind it and the entire exterior wall was rotted. As a precaution, I checked the other walls, and sure enough, those walls were also rotted. We called in a contractor to look over the house and give us a quote. We hired him, and he started the repair by stripping the walls bare. He then asked us for money for supplies (plywood, insulation, vapor barrier and new windows), so we gave him a check for $15,000. He cashed it, repaired one wall, left and never returned. The exterior is covered with Tyvek and nothing else. The only thing keeping the house from completely freezing is the interior drywall. The house is heated by electric heat and the bill is well in excess of $1,000 so far-and with the heat cranked up, the house only gets into the 60s.

MY NEWLY BUILT HOME IS ALWAYS
cold, from the basement to the top floor.I set the temperature to at least 72 degrees F (22 degrees C),but condensation constantly forms around my windows. When it gets really cold, ice farms around the windows and doors inside my house; and then when it warms up, I get puddles of water. Also,I checked the attic and noticed dampness between the clear plastic and drywall. I complained to the builders and they just advised me to. play with the thermostat, I spoke to. my neighbors and they informed me that they are also.having the same issue and that the builders refuse to. do.anything about it.
MY GIRLFRIEND BOUGHT A CONDO,
NOT KNOWING
SHE BOUGHT A NOISE
problem. The family above her has kids who. make a lot of noise well into. the night. and the man and his wife make noise early in the morning. starting at 5:30 a.m. We believe it's because the guy put in laminate flooring with aut proper insulation. We also.think the space between her ceiling and the guy's floor is hollow because sound really vibrates through there. We've complained numerous times to.the cando. board and property manager and even wrote them a 13-page letter, but nothing changed. There's a general rule that you must seek board approval to.do.this kind of renovation [installing the laminate], but it's not enforced. even if the renovation is affecting the enjoyment of ather owners. He's been notified about our complaints. but he doesn't think the noise is a problem: he thinks it's normal living. It's so.bad that my girlfriend doesn't get enough sleep and even tries to.avoid corning horne to.the noise sametimes!
16
FEBRUARY
2011 holmesmagazine.com
ECO~
WALLTITE
When you're choosing insulation, make the right choice:
MAKE IT
WALLTITEECO, the purple insulation by BASF, The Chemical Company.

WALLTITEECO is a medium-density polyurethane foam insulation/air barrier system designed to improve the energy efficiency of any type of building. Its formulation includes recycled plastic, renewable content and a zero ozone-depleting blowing agent. WALLTITEECO's industry-leading performance results in substantial energy savings by maximizing the effectiveness of the building envelope, thus reducing energy costs. WALLTITEECO meets the stringent requirements of the GREENGUARD Certification Program'" and GREENGUARD Children & Schools'" certification, thus ensuring optimal occupant comfort and safety. Optimised through BASF's life-cycle analysis tool, WALLTITEECO is the first closed-cell spray polyurethane insulation to obtain the Ecol.oqo?', North America's most widely recognized environmental certification. With the goal of promoting energy efficient homes, WALLTITEECO has been used to meet the stringent energy perfomnance requirements for the following homes participating in Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's EQuilibrium (Net Zero Energy) Sustainable Housing Demonstration Initiative: EcoTerran." Now House'" and the Aistonvale Net Zero House.
For more information: Eastern region: 1-866-474-3538 I Western region: 1-800-891-0671 walltite.com I foammasters.ca I walltiteeco.com
WALLTITE
ECO
HOlMES.. ECO
stands for the balance between ecology and economy, achieved through
foam masters'
the performance of WALLTITEECO.
e- BASF
The Chemical Company
Major prerequisites prices for industrial WALLTITEECOTM, production.
for renewable raw materials to become an alternative to fossil resources are their availability at competitive applications, without compromising food production and depleting the natural wealth. For its insulation material: BASF Canada has chosen to use renewable content from non-ecible crops that do not jeopardize global food
WALLTITEECOTM and foam masters' are trademarks of BASF canada. MAKE IT AIGHTfM is a trademark of Mike Holmes. EcoLogOIM is a registered trademark of Environment Canada. Now Hcusew is a trademark of the Now House Project Inc. EcoTerran.t is a trademark of Les Maisons A1ouette. EOuilibriumlM is a trademark of CMHC. The GAEENGUARD Certification Proqramw and GREENGUARD Children & Schoojsw are trademarks of the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute.
Disaster Letters
WE LIVE IN AN OLD LOG HOUSE
MY LANDLORDS ARE RENTING OUT ROOMS IN THEIR NEWLY PURCHASED
that was built in 1889 with a bedrock-wall foundation and soil crawlspace. Our oil tank is located outside up against the house. Last Christmas, we received our first fill-up for the year and that same day noticed an oil smell inside our home. Turns out that the full tank had leaked under our house. We called our insurance company and reported an environmental spill. We were then removed from our home and told that the house needed to be separated from the foundation so that the contaminated ruins could be removed and a new foundation built. However, it was found that, structurally; the log house couldn't be moved. Instead, they had to take out all the floors on the first level and work from the inside to remove the soil. They also had to replace one foundation wall, install a chemical sumppump system, pour concrete throughout and insulate all the foundation walls. All the plumbing, ductwork and electricity had to be removed and replaced. Over one year later, we're still not back in the house!
house for extra money to fix the shoddy work that was done in their basement. When I moved in, I noticed that there wasn't any hot water in the kitchen. They told me they shut it off because it was leaking and they didn't know how to fix it. I fixed it for them, but I also went down to the basement to see how much damage the leak had caused before they shut the water off. I found mold developing on the drywall and told them I could take out the damaged portion for them. I started by pulling back the tape to look for the screws-there were none! In fact, the contractor had mudded the drywall directly onto the concrete walls. There were no two-by-fours or insulation. Apparently the contractors did the work during the day while the owners were at work, stole all their stuff and disappeared, never to be found again. Not only did they do a really, really bad job, but they robbed them as well.
WE RECENTLY MOVED TO BE CLOSE TO FAMILY AND TO RAISE OUR THREE BOYS
on a property we could afford. The house we bought was a repo from the bank and is only five years old.We were told not to bother with the home inspectionbecause a new house should be sound-and to instead just purchase the title insurance, which we did. Since then, we have had three contractors come in to look at the main staircase in the house, and each one of them is dumbfounded at its construction. The staircase is extremely steep and very unsafe. The tread is anywhere from 8.5 to 9 inches deep and the rise is about 9 inches. To top it off,they're covered in a slippery oak veneer. Each one of the contractors is very hesitant about tackling such a huge mess. I am afraid that one of my boys is going to fall down these stairs.
SEND US YOUR DISASTER LETTERS

~ Go to: holmesmagazine.com
18
FEBRUARY
AskThePro
My husband is handicapped and I need something on his ramp that is slip-proof. Is there some type of paint or adhesive that can achieve this?
RACHEL DAVIDS LONDON, KY
MOUSE HOUSE
U/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////0.
When the weather turns cold, mice will come indoors. This is a common problem. Old homes such as yours have lots of gaps that allow warm air to escape. Mice will be attracted, and once they find these entry points, they will leave a urine trail that others will follow-and thus starts the invasion. A professional pest control specialist will first need to identify entry points on the exterior so that some kind of exclusion can be done. If any point of entry is found on the brick front, concrete point-work can be done. To address any gaps found on exterior walls with siding, an array of products, such as strips of sheet metal, caulking, steel wool or spray foam, can be used. To deal with the remaining mice inside, there are a few options. Live traps and snap traps can be effective, but this takes a lot of labor and the traps can only be set in easily accessible areas; mice hide within wall and floor voids and always follow pipes, wires and vents. Another technique is to bait with poison. Most baits contain an anticoagulant, which will dehydrate the mice.
The most significant contributor to a slippery ramp is an excessive slope. Ramps should never be steeper than one inch in height for every foot of length. No matter what material your ramp is made fromwood, concrete, aluminum or steel-it can be made less slippery. For wood and concrete, we recommend consulting with a major paint store. They can recommend the correct paint and will have a grit additive that can be mixed with the product before it's brushed or rolled on. For aluminum and steel, Industrial Choice Anti-Slip aerosol paint (available from industrial suppliers) is highly effective. Proper surface preparation is the key to a durable finish; all surfaces must be clean, dry, free of grease or oil, and, in some instances, sanded or wire-brushed. Another approach would be slip-resistant strips, like those made by 3M. On concrete or smooth metal surfaces, glue the strips down with an adhesive such as Liquid Nails, available at building supply stores. On wood, they should be nailed down. To prolong the anti-slip surface in wintry conditions, use a plastic shovel and a de-icer without salt (rock salt will corrode wood, steel and concrete). And don't use sand on the ice; it will wear down the anti-slip grit.
STEPHEN TURNER AMRAMp, SOUTH BOSTON, MA
PETER A. PEKELNY ONTARIO PRO PEST, EAST YORK, ON
20
FEBRUARY
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AskThePro
It gets pretty hot in the summer where I live. Our home is a single story 1,008-square-foot house with trees in the yard that provide some shade. There are gable vents on either end of the roof and worn-out wind-powered turbines mounted on the north side. I've been told that I should install a powered roof-mount vent to create better airflow in the attic. Would this help cool my house? If so, how would I choose the best one for the size of my house?
DAVID SKROSKI NORTH CHARLESTON, SC
W///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////h
My husband and I just bought a three-bedroom house. There is a room in the

basement which we'd like to turn into a bedroom for our son, but can't because it doesn't have a window. Who do we consult to install a window and what do we need to be aware of structurally,and for safety? LINDSAY GERALDO, WATERLOO, ON
Several variables would have to be considered in making the decision between installing a powered roof vent and a wind-powered turbine, Based provided, on the information recommendations. If your home does not have a central air-conditioning system, installing a powered roof-mount vent will provide some cooling. A 1200-dm fan would be more than adequate for a home that size. If your home does have a central air-conditioning system, you will want to avoid drawing air from the interior of the house out through the attic. Power-venting would not be recommended in a home and that is air-conditioned
I would make the following
As always when contemplating building projects, hiring a contractor with references and a good track record is fundamental. Adding a basement window will typically require cutting an opening into the masonry foundation and installing supporting structure over the opening to carry the load from above. Consult with your local building department. Work involving changes to a structure requires a building permit, and a future buyer of your home may ask for copies of these for any changes or renovations that have occurred. Most importantly, your building department will help guide you through the various building code requirements. These include window size, type and placement to to make sure there is an unrestricted exit from the bedroom in case of fire and to allow for sufficient light and ventilation. Additional concerns may include window wells, which must not impede exit through the window, and may also require drainage to prevent flooding. Finally, in my experience, the bigger the better when installing basement windows. Good light and ventilation transforms basement spaces into far more pleasant and habitable environments.
SIMCOE HOME INSPECTION PETER FRUEH SERVICES, BARRIE, ON
investment than anything else. In either case, I would recommend checking to see if the Rvalue of the insulation between the attic and living space is adequate. Also check the attic for areas that are leaking air. Airsealing the leaks will make your home more energy-efficient and keep the indoor temperature more stable, which will make your home more comfortable and save on energy costs.
DOUG WONG Be EXPRESS, INC., TOMS RIVER, NJ
I have a heat exchanger installed in my house and I'm wondering if there is an AC-unit add-on that can be installed and would use my current ducting.
CLAUDEWAGG NORRIS ARM, NL
the incoming cold fresh air is warmed through the HRV's heat exchanger using the heat recovered from the stale air before it is exhausted to the outdoors. Presently, there is no cooling-unit add-on available. Many homeowners turn off their HRV during the summer to prevent the hot humid air from contributing an additional cooling load to their HVAC system.
VICTOR ORZECH ORZECH HEAnNG & COOLING LONDON,ON
properly sealed. In this case, replacing the worn turbines with new ones would be a good idea. Make sure your ductwork is properly sealed and insulated-this will give you a much better return on
A Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)is designed to draw fresh air into a home or building while exhausting an equal amount of stale air to the outdoors. During the winter months,
22
FEBRUARY
2011
holmesmagazine.com
Ask The Pro
W/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////h.
I installed a high-efficiency furnace (93%) a few years ago and now find that the basement is quite cool in the winter compared to when the old inefficient furnace was running. Why would this be and is there any easy remedy? ROGER EASIWOOD, NORTH VANCOUVER,
BC
Your old furnace was designed to run a lot hotter than the high-efficiency replacement furnace. Every time this old furnace came on, it would heat up the walls and ceiling of your basement a lot quicker than the new furnace and this heat would then radiate back into the living space and, in turn, warm you. Try running the furnace fan continuously on low speed. This will mix the warmer air from the main floor with the cooler air from the basement and increase your comfort level in the basement. If your new furnace is a two-stage furnace, make sure you have a two-stage thermostat, which will give you far better control over your indoor comfort level.
ALBERTA FURNACE BERT TIMMER & HEATING SERVICE CALGARY, AS
A simple solution for abundant naturallight. .. The Sun Tunnel Skyliqhf

Visit www.velux.ca to find an installer near you.
A 3-foot-wide by 4-foot-deep sinkhole has developed about five feet out from the southwest corner of my home. What can I do about it? What kind of contractor can I contact to investigate further?
ADAM MCDONALD MIDLAND, MI
To properly investigate and resolve the contributing factor, you should contact a waterproofing or drain professional. To fix the sinkhole in below-ground situations, the area needs to be excavated to expose the cause and proper drainage needs to be installed. The excavation should then be filled with gravel and topped with soil.
CHRIS LUIS DRYSHIELD WATER SOLUTIONS CORP. MISSISSAUGA, ON
Sinkholes are commonly caused by erosion, the process of solids breaking down in the earth below ground level. This is frequently caused by water pooling or flowing beneath the sinkhole, such as from a broken drainpipe, improper drainage of your foundation's drain tile or a high water table. Another cause can be water pooling on the ground from gutters that don't drain adequately because of a clogged or disconnected downspout, or an improperly graded yard that allows water to pool.
SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO ASK THE PRO www.holmesmagazine.com

Questions
will be edited for length and clarity
ana may be used in other media. Because of the volume of mail received, we regret that we're unable to reply to unpublished questions.
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Know-How
TRenovating your home and don't lmowwhat to do with all the ~ waste? Try the Bagster ($30),the dumpster in a bag. Simply fill the bag with your construction debris, and the company will pick it up and safely dispose of it (collection fees apply). VIsit thebagster.com for where- to-buy information (Lowe's and Home Depot are two options) and to find out if collection is available in your area. -NATALIE GALLO
I BA ~G
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

Turn your cluttered home into an efficient, storagesavvy space with Common Sense Storage: Clever Solutions for an Organized Life. Each chapter provides a room-by-room guide to make the most of each space throughout your home. Some examples include building upper cabinets around kitchen appliances, cabinets installing shallow along hallways and
Your Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles should be tested once per month. Follow these easy steps to make sure yours are in proper working order.
mm Plug a lamp or night light

into the outlet and leave the light on, then press the test button . off and the reset button pops out-your GFCI is working properly. The reset button pops out, but the light remains on-the wiring is faulty and an electrician should be brought in to fix it.
mm The light turns

iliiIJ
E:lnilJ
The reset button doesn't pop out at all-the GFCI is not working properly and should be replaced by an electrician.
-NIKKI LOCKINGTON
adding built-in shelves in your bathroom. Creative Publishing International. $25.

-NIKKI LOCKINGTON
85% o
26
FEBRUARY
OF HOMEOWNERS
RECENTLY SURVEYED CONSIDER THEIR HOMES TO BE THEIR MOST VALUABLE ASSET. -AMERiCL\NEXPRESS
GLASS OPTIONS DID YOU KNOW? Up to 35% of a home's
heat is lost through its windows. How much is 35% of your annuai heating bill?
RAIN POUNDS.
BLIZZARDS
RAGE.
WINOS ROAR.
MOTHER NATURE SURE HAS A LOT OF MOOD SWINGS.
A variety of glass options that will stand up to any weather.
---------------------------~
ANNUAL AVERAGE SNOWFALL
Snowmobiie
SnOWShoes SnCWbOot5
It's all too fomiliar. The punishing wrath of Mother Nature. So when it comes to windows, why is ttiere so much ralk abour beautiful views, but not much about the ugly ones? After all, those harsh days are what separate the good windows from the bad. Cold drafts seeping through. Frost crystals forming on surfaces. Tiny beads Of trickling condensation.
These are all signs Of the outside elements invading your home and inflating your energy bill. Things we believe should never happen. That's why we provide energy efficient windows with a variety Of glass options that'll stand up to any weather, ony day - nor just those sunny ones when you're probably outdoors anyway.
\
We're always interested in starting a conversation about your needs and how we can meet them. Give us a call at 18006385709 or visit us at allweatherwindows.com
CO ITTD TO
'" CSQ. ti. ('. ~r:p5 ~ g~@ ... w N'WWMMAAM

All weather windows is a CSA Certified Manufacturer
Know-How
Ca tio ar Tale
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scored one for the good guys recently when they apprehended a Massachusetts ~' woman named Albania Deleon. She was :=;,,_ ~!._ convicted of a handful of fraud charges for handing out asbestos removal certifications ~~;::;:';~, "\ ~ without properly training or testing her stu~~"-.--~' \~"' __ ~__ ._~._.. d ents (d th en trying to fud ge h er recor d s c.:~.:;:,:,~ .,~_,. __ an =C'~" ':': .. when the EPA began investigating). ::.::. ;;:-'"' .. ~"~:'~=:="1!::=Ei-:;<'::;=w Deleon, who had been in disguise and " ~;2~,~~:=~~~::,=~~_1tJ<~"'~!tqx.W" on the lam in the Dominican Republic ..... ~~~~~2'~~SE=~~!9==EF~~ her nearly three-week-long trial, after ."..... ..'_became the first female named to the EPA's fugitive list. Her disappearance set off an international search. She's now in custody; facing as many as 20 years in prison for endangering citizens and evading the law-just in case you needed another reason to check your contractor's credentials! -GREG HUDSON
(~) W ANTED
"........
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DOYOUUVEIN AN OLDER HOME? CONSIDERADDING INSULATlON-
ONLY
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i ll<1nfol'.iolorin,poot-Iri&Itel<a><<<><Iditioo<.Sh<>ddiIionollyf f
OF HOMES BUILT BEFORE 1980 ARE WELLINSULATED [OR HAVE ADEQUATE INSULATION] .
IN 2010,
62%
OF AMERICAN HOMEOWNERS PLANNED TOEMBARK ON HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AND SPEND Go Ask Angie Are you looking for a MORETHAN contractor for your next renovation project? Log $6,000. on to angieslist.com, and find out what people are
energy consum tion by up to 5 percent; $79. theactivent.com
-CHRISTOPHER
The bathroom is too cold, the living room is too warm-it's a common story in most centrally heated and air-conditioned homes. Enter the Activent, an air register that can be added to the vents in your house to help regulate temperature. A battery-powered remote wirelessly controls the temperature on each register, and they close automatically when the desired room temperature is reached, preventing overheating (or over-cooling) in individual rooms. G1!liI!II Every Activent installed inY'our home can reauce
REYNOLDS
- AMERICAN
EXPRESS
saying about contractors, painters, plumbers and tradespeople in your area.
28
Know-How
Paper beats rock (granite and marble) in the game of stylish, sustainable countertops. Peper-composite panels, made with recyeled paper and compressed with petroleum-free resins, are scratch- and heat-resistant, durable and food-safe. They clean up easily, and can be treated with mineral oil to seal out moisture and stains. Top industry players like PaperStone, Richlite and ShetkaStone offer pieces up to 5 feet wide and 12 feet long and as thick as 1Y-I inches. Prices range from $45 to $90 per square foot, not including installation.
-DENISE GEE
WHITE HOUSE, GREEN HOUSE

The White House is going to get a little greener this year; President Obama recently announced he would have solar panels installed over the East Wing living quarters in the spring. The decision comes 30 years after panels were first added under Jimmy Carter (they were later removed by his successor Ronald Reagan). The U.S. Department of Energy hopes Obama's move will demonstrate the practicality of solar energy and emphasize his commitment to renewable energy. -NATALIE GALLO
Check every area of your home where air can infiltrate in and out-especially your floors, walls and ceilings. Sealing air leaks in your home can help save on energy costs. -u.s, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Feeling drafty?
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30
With the fluctuating cost of fossil fuels and a revitalized focus on the environment, it's no wonder that consumers and business owners are increasingly turning to geothermal technology as the solution for their heating and cooling needs.
At GeoSmart Energy our passion is geo - and it shows. GeoSmart Energy and our Geothermal Specialists brand have earned a reputation as the most respected name in the geothermal industry. That's because we have channeled over three centuries of combined geothermal experience into a line of premium geothermal systems that provide the most cost-effective, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way to deliver worry-free, year-round indoor comfort. The environmental impact of a geothermal system is unmistakable - it's the emission reduction equivalent of planting 750trees or removing two cars from the road. It doesn't release harmful greenhouse gases and it doesn't expose people to risks of carbon monoxide. Cost-effective and energy-efficient Safe, clean, quiet and eco-friendly Provides up to 80% in energy savings
Fora free estimate, please contact your local Geothermal Specialist: True Green Geothermal Abbotsford, BC
604-625-1112
Comfort Zone Heating & Air Conditioning Cobourg, ON

905-377-9719
truegreengeothermal.com Lakeview Geotech Ltd. Penticton, BC

250-809-1078
comfortzonecanada.ca The Climate Controllers Lindsay,ON

705-324-7500
lakeviewgeotech.ca Alf's Geo & Drilling Viking,AB

780-336-5224
MLK Services Inc. Linwood, ON

519-698-1137
alfsgeo.com Green Earth Group Moose Jaw, SK

306-873-5918
MX Constructors Sturgeon Falls,ON

705-753-1500
morrisonx.com Father & Sons Geothermal leamington, ON

866-996-6995
Earthflow Geothermal Saskatoon, SK

888-846-4436
Little Digger Excavating Ltd. st. Andrews, MB

204-771-7780
fatherandsons.ca Climatisation Duplessis Inc. Sherbrooke, QC

819-346-6837
Keating Mechanical landmark, MB

204-355-4608
c1imatisation-duplessis.com Les Services Geo- Tech Dunham, QC

450-295-3465
keatingmechanical.com Georgian Geo Allenford, ON

519-375-6332
georgiangeo.com
Tradewinds Eco-Energy Solutions Shediac, NB

506-532-3391
GEOS
ENE
R
~RT
G V
866.310.6690 GEOSMARTENERGY.COM
Central Ontario Heating Barrie,ON

705-791-7097
getgeo.ca
centralontarioheating.com
Know-How
the earth job site strategy GREE"'~ ~ ~ g~~:; tools Qreaer~OUS!reengreen strategy ~~~~~ :l :lenvironm.ent"t~ols ttaZ 0 reen reeev !on strategy GREEN < < materia's strategy ~,~!~r~~,:,.~~.~;~~.S!~!~~tstrategy GREEN) - ~RE!,N wasteGR~~:,!". (; ~ IV"'- GREEN renovation renovation t t GREEN" ., Job SIte hazard,ous,Ob . ~GREENnr~nov~tionstrategy;t~:t:gy GREEN Ogree!]materials 10 ....-_ ,""n"goon"n' J'ob I't str t gy . 'A 0 3-wasteJ'ob siteGreen environment :l :lenvironment :. GREENrenovatlon . sea strategy egy V'3 -. --,... uv.1.lo,", h-nYlronm.nt e ~ GREEN renovation azardous ~Vl~JtJH strategy c::: L:a'"'::::r ~ov :~<> ""tr"materials strategy ~ 11)green materials ~~ GREENrenova IOngreen strategy m:l :lg~,!:"jQb environment ~trategy~" "waste ~ renovation job hazardous mater\il\stg~en waste management strategy hazardous materials green job site green job ;>::o.u: renovation ~~~ renov~tio~ green Job site green job site gre~n job site PROJECT env!ronmental CHECKLISTI, envlronmenta
-2
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environment~1
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ENVrRONME~rTAL NOT
To keep your building project as sustainable as possible, you need to make sure your job site is using eco-friendly practices, too. Here are some smart questions to ask to make sure your job-site processes are as environmentally responsible as your finished project.
What is your waste management strategy? Find out ifthere's a policies and procedures manual available that outlines the contractor's waste sorting, recycling and disposal practices. How do you dispose of hazardous materials or chemicals? Make sure there's a plan in place for the proper disposal of paint, caulking and adhesive products.
Are you careful to demolish ina way that allows materials to be salvaged, reused or donated? Builders can, for example, make use of old two-by-fours to frame a window or construct built-ins. Do you have a relationship with an eco-minded supplier? Also ask if they organize product deliveries in bulk (giventhere isstorage space on-site)to minimizethe number of trips to a particular cityor job site.
Can you provide a pre-renovation report that outlines the green practices on the job? See ifthey can provide you with examples from past job sites, plus references to back up the claims.
-NIKKI LOCKING TON
Let Brad Pitt be your guide to green building around the world with e2 design, a PBS design program now available on DVD. The actor and environmentalist narrates this series that celebrates sustainable architecture and cuttingeclge, eco-friendly buildings and developments. Follow the cameras across the globe from New York City, where builder Jonathan Rose works toward implementing sustainable practices il'lpublic housing units citywide, to the Netherlands, where Dutch architects reeycle washing machines and car tires into building materials; $20.
Homeowners can get the look and functionality of undercabinet lighting without eating up space with Kichler Design Pro LED Linear lighting, an energy-efficient fixture with an ultrathin, quarter-inch profile that can hide under cabinets, inside a bookcase, even under a bed-just about anywhere. Each pod contains two LED lights, and there are four pods per foot each connected by flexible 24-gauge wire for a continuous line of light even along curved surfaces and around corners. Sold in 12foot lengths, the lighting can be cut to size, or combined for added length. Best of ail, LED lighting can save as much as 75 percent over incandescent lighting and it has a typical life span of 20 years so you won't have to worry about replacing them any time soon. Available in black and white finishes; from $120 per foot. kichler .com -CARA SMUSIAK
.1
amazon,com
-NATAUE GALbO
1.5 Mill ion

32
HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN THE U.S. HAVE INVESTED IN SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEMS.
-U.S.DEPARTMENTOFENERGY
Know-How
GREEN R
Photovoltaic Design & Installation for Dummies Harness the sun's power with this Dummies primer for contractors on the fundamentals of solar panel design and installation. The topics range from electricity basics and grid sizing to permits and inspections. Wiley Publishing, $25.
TEXT NIKKI LOCKINGTON
log on to holmesmagazine.com for your chance to win one of these books
Planet Home: Conscious Choices for Cleaning and Greening the World You Care About Most Searching for environmentally friendly ways to clean your home? Take a look through Planet Home and discover room-by-room methods you can use to make sure your cleaning habits aren't hurting your family, your home or your planet. Clarkson Potter, $20.
Green Restorations Make your historic home more energyefficient and sustainable, without losing any of its original charm or character. This book takes you through the different rooms and systems of an older home and lays out how to restore or renovate a heritage house in an eco-friendly fashion. New Society Publishers, $38.
Eco House: Practical Ideas for a Greener, Healthier Dwelling This is the perfect resource for homeowners who want to take their home's sustainability to the next level. Green building materials, terms and processes are clearly explained, and helpful diagrams and pictures make complex concepts easy to understand. There's also a convenient directory of architects, designers, manufacturers and online resources. Firefly Books, $20.
I j
Practical Green Remodeling This great renovation sourcebook profiles real-life remodels, like the transformation of a drafty 1870s frame house into one that qualifies for lEED Platinum certification, and outlines each home's sustainable features, so you can take bits and pieces from each to customize your own ecoredesign. The Taunton Press, $25.
'.~~ l
ceo HOUSE
34
FEBRUARY
Napoleon's Fireplace Design Studio allows you to design, visualize and price the perfect fireplace for your home. Available as an iPhone app or online.
_e
napoleonfireplaces.com/FDS
-.-
-~ ~
QUALITY FIREPLACES
.. ~II':t ~
You-, 1-800-461-5581
napoleonfireplaces.com
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Advice
"
I
~
Who can you trust to help build your dream house? Your best bet: look for builders committed to working in an environmentally responsible manner. These dedicated professionals, up-to-date on the latest technology, tend to be the best in the business. Here's how to -, find the right man for the job. TEXT CHRISTOPHER REYNOlDS
\ \
\~----------------------------~ -,
STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATION
-, -,
-,
-, " "-, -, -, -, -, "-,

"""-
-, -, -, -, -,
-, -,
These exist for building practices and materials, but it seems that as soon as one is formulated, it's trumped by a newer one. A knowledgeable builder should be able to speak to some of these, and help assess whether or not they are right for you.
BUILDING
KEY SUBJECTS TO DISCUSS WITH A PROSPECTIVE GREEN BUILDER

WASTE REDUCTION How will construction waste be diverted from the landfill? ENERGYE~ENCYHowmuch energy can you save? Choosing Energy Star-qualified windows and doors can save you up to 15 percent alone. SITE ORIENTATION How san you position the house to take advantage of natural resources such as heat and light from the sun, cooling breezes and vegetation? SPACE SOLUTIONS How can you make the best use of the space you have and not build more than you need? INDOOR AIR QUALITY What building materials contaminate indoor air and what are the alternatives? What systems will be installed to bring fresh air into the home? WATER SAVING What water efficiency features can be incorporated into the home? BUILDING STRONG Remember that building green isn't just about new technology. Building a lasting structure is about the most sustainable move you and your builder can make.
"-
-, "-, ""-, "-, ,
LEED certification: LEED(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards were developed by the U.S. Green Building Council and are recognized around the world.
-, -,
"-
-, ENERGY STAR: This labeling system, -, -, a joint program of the U.s. Environmental -, , Protection Agency and the U.S. -, -, Department of Energy, evaluates the -, ,
, -,
-, -, -, -, -, -, -, -, -,
energy consumption of all kinds of consumer products, from appliances to heating and cooling systems.
National Green Building Standard:
This is the standard for homes in the United States developed by the National Association of Home Builders and the International Code Council. MATERIALS
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC):
Independent nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable forestry around the world. Wood in FSC-Iabeled products is certified to be from responsibly managed forests.
GreenSpec: A directory of
environmentally responsible building products published by Building Green, an independent publishing company.
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SF!):
Nonprofit certification program. Wood and paper products with an SFI label are certified to have come from sustainably managed forests in North America.
36
FEBRUARY
materials to I rom recycled Soar pan I you more upf e S-can cost serious ener ront: but may offer term. An e~Y sa.vlOgSin the Ion should b k penenced bUilde g e nowled r to crunch those geable enough you make inf numbers to help ormed decisions.
Spend Money N Save,M ow, ney BUilding Opto Later? lons_f
MATERIALS 101
Once you have your plans in place, your builder should be able to recommend eco-friendly materials.
EXPECTSUGGESnONS UKETHESE:
Get recommendations from other homeowners who have built in an environmentally conscious way. Consult other professionals in the industry. Need a contractor? Ask an architecture or building firm that specializes in eco-friendly structures. Check architects' associations. Visit the USGBC website to search their lists of LEED-accredited professionals. usgbc.org
Low- or no-VOC Products
paints and adhesives. materials. wallpaper materials. chosen from to
made from recycled materials-from reprocessed Carefully
Many building countertops-use Reclaimed building (located
materials
pieces, such as cabinets material just about building
and flooring, depots
recycling
everywhere) green doesn't
can save landfills. inefficient
you money But because building windows
and divert
waste from
also means make sense.
for the long haul; reusing and doors
Make sure that anyone you're considering hiring has a firm, demonstrable track record in sustainable building, including testimonials from satisfied clients. They should be able i to provide quality references for the ideas they . put forth and for the work they've done. . ~----------------------~--~----------------i
',' ,.1
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jl
THE NUMBER OF BUILDERS WHO HAVE RECEIVED LEED AP FOR HOMES CERTIFICATION SINCE 2009.
holmesmagazine.com FEBRUARY2011
37
MIKE HOLMES INSPECTIONS
Advice
Lush green roofs are sprouting up allover. Is one right for your house? TEXT GREG HUDSON
I~'SAIlIVE!
ROWING IN POPULARITY IN NORTH AMERICA, THESE eco-friendly systems now account for about 10 million square feet of roofing each year. They can be a great
G [g]
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way to save money and give back to the planet. Here's a

detailed look at how they work.
~'""-~~_l
1holmesmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2011
39
Advice
Need a Pro?
Green Roofs for I--Iealthy Cities, a North American nonprofit industry association, provides training, testing and certification for professionals. For more information on how to find architects, landscape architects and roofing consultants who are knowledgeable about this subject, visit greenroofs.org.
THE FUNDAMENTALS
Also called a planted or living roof, a green roof is covered in vegetation, which absorbs rainwater; insulates the building and extends the life of the existing surface. Not to be confused with a rooftop garden - a space on a terrace or deck that houses plants in freestanding containers-a green roof is designed to support a layer of plants that become part of the roofing system. It can be used in place of traditional roofing or added as a modular component - with vegetation planted in trays or grown as a pre-cultivated blanket and placed over the existing surface.
----------~1.
VEG~ATION
A specialist can help you select the best plants for your system, climate and aesthetic preference. GROWING MEDIUM Usuallya lightweight mix of mineral material plusup to 20 percent organic compost to maximize water retention. FILTER MEMBRANE A layer of geotextile, a permeable material, ensures that none of the growing medium clogs the drainage layer below. DRAINAGE LAYER This allows excess water to drain off the roof and may also act as a reservoir. ROOT BARRIER WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE Seals the surface so that water can't penetrate the building. THERMAL INSULATION Some systems have this insulation above the base for extra protection.
8. ROOF BASE
40
FEBRUARY
A green roof not only creates more eco- friendly space, but it can also help you cut back on your bills. Here's how:
LONGEVITY A standard roof begins to show its age when it's around 15 to 20 years old. While it may take two years to root, a green roof is designed to last 50 years or more. LOWER ENERGY BILLS Your savings will depend on the size, the climate and the type of roof. Expect as much as a 25 percent reduction in air conditioning (asphalt roofs can get very hot in the sun). In a study at the University of Central Florida, a green roof was proven to be 40 degrees cooler than an adjacent conventional flat roof. WATER CONSERVATION Livingroofs create less runoff water for the municipal infrastructure to deal with, which means lower taxes for you.
THE BOTTOM LINE
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holmesmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2011 .
41
Renovator's Notebook
CAN I PUT ONE ON MY PROPERTY? "Small wind" turbines,
those that generate less than 100 kilowatts of electricity; can be installed on lots as small as an acre. Local building codes and zoning laws will spell out if and where you can install one. Height limits (the average height of the tower is 80 feet), setbacks and noise restrictions also come into play and vary depending on where you live.Visit your city's building permit and zoning departments to research the requirements.
ON-GRID VERSUS OFF-GRID?
Homes powered by small wind turbines that are tied to the electrical grid have the benefit of uninterrupted power even when the wind isn't blowing. And when the turbine generates more power than the home uses, the excess goes back to the grid and gets credited to the owner. Off-grid systems, which are not connected to a utility; require a battery as a backup to store energy. Or it can be supplemented by solar electric panels. The average generating capacity needed to power an entire house with an off-grid system is about 5 kilowatts.
HOW MUCH DOES A TURBINE COST? An on-grid device large ccording to a U.S. from wind sources. Department of En~ind farms are only viable, ergy (DOE) esti- however, where you experimate, wind power ence at least 14 miles-per-hour will provide 20 steady winds, according to John percent of the electricity in the Dunlop, senior technical proUnited States by 2030. And in grams manager with the AmeriCanada, the Canadian Wind can Wind Energy Association. Energy Association forecasts they'll reach that same percentIT'S TRUE! age target or more by 2025.At present the United States gets Many manufacturers just 2 percent of its electricare adding acoustic ity from wind turbines, while warning devices to CANWEA estimates that just prevent birds from one million Canadians (out of meeting their a population of roughly 34 milend in a wind turbine. lion) currently get their power
enough to power an entire house costs on average $30,000 including installation, however, the price can range from $10,000 on up to $70,000. A small off-grid system will cost from $4,000 to $9,000. The payback period varies widely-anywhere from six to 30 years. It depends on several factors: the amount of prevailing wind at the site, the house's energy requirements, the cost of installation, and price of electricity. 44
m
:&
, . ~
Evaluating the Pros
may not even be worth the trouble. In most states the average kilowatt hour costs less than that.
WIND CAN BE TRICKY> Since it
and Cons
IIPROS
doesn't blow at a steady pace all the time, there must be backup power to fill in when the breeze isn't strong enough. Secondly. the wind sometimes ==t==!:=~:::::::::::::::::;:==Jl~ blows the strongest in remote areas on land or out in the water, far from cities I that need the energy; so-long transmis-LLl.. sion lines must be built. i
I
IT'S CLEAN> Wind energy is environ-
mentally positive, since it doesn't involve any drilling or mining to harm the earth, and it's an inexhaustible source of fuel that can be generated domestically.
THE TECHNOLOGY IS IN PLACE> No
WILDLIFE CASUALTIES> Even wind-
power advocates acknowledge that birds-including eagles and other significant species-are killed every year when they fly into turbines.
AESTHETICS & SOUND> The Cape
I I I I I I
I
I I I
I
I I
I
I I I I
I I
technological breakthrough is needed to make wind energy work, says the U.S.Department of Energy; although there are improvements all the time. Newer, larger turbines, for instance, generate much more electricity than similar models from the 1980s,at one-fourth the per-unit cost.
TAX CREDITS> Government rebates
I I
Wind project, the United States' first planned offshore project off the coast of Massachusetts, has generated a lot of detractors who feel that the installation of more than 100 turbines will take away from the natural beauty of the New England shore. And people who live near turbines also often object to the noise.
and tax credits may be available where you live to offset the high installation costs.
JOBS> If 20 percent of U.S.electricity
imD You can buy a

recording anemometer to measure wind speed for a year before making any decision.
could be converted to wind power by 2030, as many as 500,000jobs could be created from this growing industry. Offshore wind farms, such as those on the Great Lakes, could help areas of the United States and Canada that have been hit hard by the recession.
meONS
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COST> For small individual turbines, sized for homeowners, the cost of equipment, installation, permits and fees can be prohibitive. The minimum investment of roughly $10,000 may yield a better return if you spent it on a bathroom remodel. And, if you pay less than $0.09 per kilowatt hour, it
holmesmagazine.com
FEBRUARY
2011
45
But the potential savings is a good reason to learn more: A family of four in California, for instance, can save anywhere between $300 and $600 a year by diverting their graywater for irrigation. However, since the cost and use of water varies across the country, a system can pay for itself in as little as four years in one city; and in another town, the cost may never be recouped. Of course, adding one during construction costs less than a retrofit. And a pro should shepherd you through the permits and system options appropriate for your circumstances. First, learn if your code allows it, then take notes before taking the plunge. city to city in the U.S.But codes can change, so always check for yourself, even if your contractor reassures you. In Canada, the legalities vary from province to province. While a graywater recycling system can be installed with a permit in some municipalities in Canada, many jurisdictions lack a standard approval process and special permission must be sought.
Barely legal?
Graywater legislation varies from
SYSTEM OPTIONS
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Recycling with pump, no disinfection

HOW IT WORKS Water from bathtubs, sinks and washing machines is drained into a graywater line that separates it from black water (posttoilet-flush water) in a code-compliant way. The graywater pipes directly feed into an outdoor irrigation system. FLUSHING \
IRRIGATION
"'il..
J 1 1
~
HOW IT WORKS Typically, it's composed of a collection pipe, holding tank and a pump (to get it to its end use). Tub and shower water is diverted through a pipe to the holding tank, then pumped to the toilet when it's flushed.
01
=
PROS Runs almost entirely maintenance-free CONS Can cost $9,000 to $10,000 for both graywater systems, installed
:=
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a
and irrigation
PROS No disinfecting chemicals to add; design will flush out water if not used CONS Requires maintenance on the part of the homeowner, including cleaning filters; starts around $2,500
A branched drain (the "natural" route)

IRRIGATION HO , T WORKS Bath and shower water empties out of a home, flows downhill through a pipe, into a mulch basin placed near trees and shrubs. FLUSHING
1
I:
--
00
"
HO '" T WORKS Shower and laundry water is collected, filtered, disinfected and then pumped back on-demand to toilets. Disinfection varies among different brands and models, but can include chlorine, hydrogen peroxide or UV light to prevent bacteria growth.
PROS Can be quite cheap, ranging from $500 on up to $3,000 installed; requires little maintenance after initial installation; requires little or no energy to function CONS Simplest designs only work with gravity, downhill; some can be complex to install (depending on soil and climate considerations)
PROS Easy to use once installed; graywater is disinfected for homeowners who want the extra protection CONS Higher upfront costs-from around $2,500; many systems are only appropriate for new construction
48
FEBRUARY
WHERE CAN ASBESTOS BE FOUND?

Most people ing spots. know that it is often found built before in the loose or batt insulation in older homes, in: Door gaskets in furnaces, wood stoves and coal stoves Appliance wiring Textured paints Artificial ashes and embers for fireplaces
----
but few are aware
of its numerous
other
hid-
In homes
the 1980s, the fiber may be present
Vinyl flooring and glue Acoustical ceiling tiles Compounds, cement, plaster and adhesives Loose-fill vermiculite insulation
Roofing shingles and tar paper Exterior siding Pipe and boiler coverings Wallboard Insulation in oil and coal furnaces
50
CEcBRLJARY
2011
holmesmagazine.com
..
THE REMOVAL PROCESS
"-:::
First, the area must be isolated from the rest of the living space. This includes applying plastic sheeting, setting up a decontamination area and establishing negative air pressure with a negative air machine (to prevent contaminated from escaping). air
Next, prewetting takes place. A specialist will thoroughly spray all the materials that are to be removed with amended water (water plus a surfactant) sion-wetting the job. for dust will and fiber supprescontinue throughout
Controlled abatement/demolition takes place. Drywall, insulation or any asbestoscontaining materials are removed by hand to keep dust to a minimum.
All debris is placed in clearly labeled thick plastic bags (the bags need to clearly identify that they contain asbestos waste), which must be properly sealed. transfer
The bags go to the waste area-adthey jacent to the work area-where are placed in a second bag and wiped down. After this, all bags will be transferred to an outdoor disposal bin and finally to an authorized landfill.
Once everything is removed, the specialists will perform a final clean of the area. The area is washed down with wet sponges, and a HEPA-filter vacuum is used to make sure all contaminated material is removed from the space.
Once the asbestos has been safely removed from the space, there is one final step to make sure every last fiber is gone. After the lock down stage, a post-removal sealer (a gluelike agent) is sprayed throughout the entire space (all surfaces and the air) to trap any remaining microscopic fibers so that they settle to the ground. Once this step is complete, an independent third-party environmental consultant will do a visual assessment and air test to make sure the area is asbestos-free. Only if the air passes the test, and is deemed safe, can the plastic, decontamination facility and waste transfer area be taken away and the negative air machines turned off. -NIKKI LOCKINGTON
POST-REMOVAL
52
Schluter Systems
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FEBRUARY
Ask around
Get several bids for your project to get a better idea of how much it will cost and how much to budget.
Who's who
A general contractor will oversee the project, pr<;lVide budgets, hire, supervise and pay subcontractors and work with building officials. A subcontractor is a specialist in their field such as an electrician, plumber or drywall installer.
------=-----0
Hire a pro
Sometimes the contractor can't do it all-drawings to qualify for a permit may require a draftsperson or architect.
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There's no doubt about it: Just planning a renovation can be time-conswning and stressfulhunting down a contractor, pursuing construction permits, securing the financing. Our advice? Just followthis simple and thorough checklist.
NATALIE GALLO
Know Your
Needs
~ Do your homework. Start with a list of preferences for such items as lighting, flooring and appliances, and include brand names. This will keep you and your general contractor on the same page about the costs and quality of the work. The more details you can provide, the better. ~ Put your ideas on paper-'-make sketches and draw up floor plans to discuss with your contractor.
Control Spending
~ Don't just nail down products you want your contractor to use but also call around for estimates for how much they cost to install. Factor these in along with miscellaneous expenses such as dining out or booking a hotel room when and if construction makes the space temporarily unlivable. This leads to a realistic budget. ~A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10to 15 percent more than you figure your reno will cost.
Play
Detective
~ Personal referrals are a place to start, but remember that hiring the right contractor takes time. ~ Make sure contractors have the proper insurance and license, and check that all their employees and subcontractors are insured and licensed as well. Ask to see a copy of their insurance. ~ Xerox these documents and keep them on hand.
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RENO PREP
411
Paying Up
Set up a payment schedule based on tasks completed so that the money being paid keeps pace with the work being performed. Start with 10 percent upfront, with additional 10 percent payments when milestones are met-the framing is completed, the electrical and plumbing rough-ins are done, the insulation and vapor barriers are installed, the drywall is up and so on.
Check and double-check Read the small print in all paperwork carefully, and check off each line to indicate you have read it;
Don't be afraid to ask Most building departments are willing to answer your questionstake advantage of this expertiseto make sure that your permits make It through the process--quickly.
Staying Lien-Free
To avoid liens (legal claims or holds on your property), make sure any subcontractors who worked on the project have been paid. Do not make payments to the contractor until you have written verification from each subcontractor, and hold onto this documentation just in case a lien situation occurs in the future.
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Get it in Writing
;;;:Youwant a contract with a detailed price quote; rules about change orders; start and finish dates; clauses on incentives, penalties and termination; payment schedules; and a list of everyone working on the project, including all subcontractors. A lawyer is not required for paperwork, but using one couldn't hurt. ;;;:If something doesn't look right, change the wording, and don't be afraid to ask to delete or add missing components or clauses.
Apply- for Your Permits

BEFORE APPLYING ;;;:Approach the city's building department to find out what permits are required for your project. While your contractor should take care of this, it is ultimately up to you, the homeowner, to make sure all permits are pulled. ;;;:The process of applying for a permit varies from city to city, so it's crucial to check with your local building department to find out what the permit requirements are in your area.
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lnspectlcns are key

Failure to have inspections done may involve fines, the removal of completed work and materials, and in some cases, such as electrical or plumbing, insurance claims will be affected. SET UP TEMPORARY LIVING SPACES Ifyou're renovating your kitchen, for example, install a cooking area in another room with your microwave, refrigerator and toaster oven. USE DROPCLOTHS AND WRAP ITEMS in protective material to minimize contamination from drywall dust. Take a walk through your home with your contractor to see if anything other than the obvious needs to be covered up. BLOCK OFF VENTS AND SEAL under doorways of rooms being renovated so that no excess dust or construction debris escapes. (Your contractor should take care of this.) MAKE ALTERNATE ARRANGEMENTS (like showering at the gym or eating out) if your water is going to be turned off for plumbing work. PLACE RED TAPE over the electrical breakers that have been turned off for electrical work so they are not mistakenly turned back on. USE SIGNS (or caution tape) to block off areas, such as holes in the subfloor, that are dangerous (especially for kids or pets).
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AFTER APPLYING
~The building department might send back your application with a request for changes-these need to be made before a permit can be issued. ~ Once your permit has been issued, ask your contractor for a copy to keep in your records. ~AII permits must be clearly displayed in a window on the job site.
Inspection Requirements
~ Once a building permit is issued, it will indicate what inspections are required to get a final approval. ~ Inspection points may include electrical work when new panels are installed or circuits are wired; mechanical work such as new ductwork, furnaces or heat pumps; and new plumbing before it's covered up with drywall.
The Final Step

~Your contractor should take care of setting up the final inspection, but again, it is ultimately the homeowner's responsibility to make sure this step is completed. ~ Make sure you have a signed copy of the paperwork from the building department for your records. ~ Legally,the project is not complete until it has passed the final inspection.
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HIRING 4
CONTRACTOR
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They promise you a price that is far lower than the norm. They ask for a large amount of money upfront. They have no physical business address.
They have no references, or the ones they give can't be verified. They won't supply anything in writing. They have a problem answering your questions, or their answers are vague. They don't have proper workers' compensation, insurance or licenses, or any of this information is outdated. They pressure you to sign a contract or promise you a deal if you sign right away. They delay the job start date.
D How D May
long have you been in business?
D May
1see a copy of your business license? (Contact the issuing authority to confirm that it's valid.)
1see the business licenses and liability insurance from your tradespeople? (Liability insurance is essential, so call the insurance company to verify that the insurance is still valid.)
How long has your corporation been around for? (Shady contractors change their corporate names regularly to avoid liability.)
D Have you D Can you
done similar jobs?
o Can you provide
provide references? (Contact each one and ask if you can visit to see the work firsthand.)
PROGRESS REPORTS
See that your contractor maintains a regular project report and make sure that all discussions, progress and issues that arise are included in it. Each of you should sign the report so that both parties are aware of what is happening.
a copy of the certificate of insurance before any work begins? (Again, confirm that it's valid.) and
D What
warranty do you offer, and what does it cover? Are you going to acquire the correct permits for the job or will I?
o Do you have a list of suppliers

tradespeople that you use?
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~~
411
RENOLOAN411
Need some funds for your renovation? Here's how to get what you need.
TYPE WHAT IT TAKES
Lenders will look at a homeowner's credit score, their income and their debt load to figure out if they qualify for a line of credit. as well as how much they qualify for. A line of credit's interest rate is typically tied to the prime rate (most banks say prime plus one percent). Exactly how much equity is required depends on the lender: In the U.S., there is no set minimum percentage, but you must provide proof of home ownership,income,mortgage equity and often a home appraisal. In Canada, most banks require a borrower to have at least 20 percent equity to qualify TEXT GREG HUDSON
PROS
Lower interest rates than a credit card (most credit cards have an in terest rate of 18 percent) The money is always accesslble=either by check, debit, at an ATM or in person As it's paid back, the funds become available again One only pays interest on funds that are used
CONS
Ease of use means spending can get out of control As an unsecured line of credit (the bank doesn't hold any of the borrower's property as collateral), the loan can't typically exceed $100,000 in the United States or $50,000 in Canada No fixed-term interest rate (rates fluctuate with prime rate) Equity is hard to come by in the post-housingmarket-crash economy Defaulting on payments can cost you your home (the lender will be able to foreclose and sell your home)
PERSONAL LINE OF CREDIT

A personal line of credit frees up cash that borrowers can use for any purpose. They work like credit card accounts, but are through ~ the bank instead of a credit card company
<~
HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC)

These loans let homeowners use the capital they've built up in their property to qualify for a larger line of credit. with a lower, but still variable, ,~~ interest rate.
,Is:
Variable interest rates that can be as low as prime Can usually borrow up to 80 percent of the value of the home (depending on the lender, and some may let you borrow more) Flexible payback
structure--minimum
payments can be as low as interest only
HOME RENOVATION LOAN

Whereas home buyers usually qualify for one loan to finance their new home and secure separate financing to cover repairs, a 203(k) loan is one that may allow home buyers to roll the renovation costs into the mortgageone loan to finance everything. How much you borrow is based on the projected value of the property once the renovations are complete.
Lenders will look at the typical loan qualifications, such as income, assets and credit score. Then, additionally. an appraiser will evaluate how much value will be added by the planned renovations. Ideally, a lender can also pad the loan by 10 percent to cover unseen overages, in cases where the appraiser's estimates isn't completely spot-on. Renovations must start 30 days after the loan closes, and be completed within six months.
Great for new home buyers with no equity Good investment opportunity for house-flippers Insured by Department of Housing and Urban Development
Any amount of the loan not used for renovations is automatically returned to payoff the mortgage principal Slightly higher interest rates (conventional rate plus .25 to .375 percent) Does not cover luxury renovations, only necessary repairs Since it's a loan, interest is charged on the whole amount from day one
are alike, a financial professional can help determine which option is best for you and your home. Most banks and brokerages have employees who specialize in renovation financing, and they can help you choose the best type of loan for your project.
Because no two homeowners
Ask the Expert
Unless you own your home free and clear,

a HELOC is considered a second mortgage (your actual mortgage is first) and will typically have a higher interest rate than first mortgages. This is because they have a higher risk of default, as priority is usually given to first mortgage payments.
Did You Know?
What's Your Home Worth?

Add the original cost of your mortgage, plus how much the house has gone up in value, compared with how much is left on your mortgage. (Ifyour mortgage was $200,000, your house now appraises at $250,000, and you have paid back $100,000, your equity is $150,000.)
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FEBRUARY 2011holmesmagazine.com
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Find Your Sweet Spot

The key to a successful home design, whether you're building new or planning a remodel. is to think about square footage early on. Consider how you're actually going to use the space so that you don't overcompensate and go over your budget. Keeping to a modest footprint can allow you to increase the quality of your living space, says Sarah Susanka, bestselling author of the influential Not So Big House books. "Reduce the size of your new house plans or
addition by about one-third, and then reallocate the money saved into quality interior finishes, creative storage solutions and double-duty designs that are tailor-made to you and your family's lifestyle," advises Susanka.
Customize With Cozy Details

Architectural features that would fade in a larger home pop in small spaces-espedally if you make it a point to integrate them into your design. Take advantage of an awkward ele-
HOMES THAT PROPERLY FIT HOW PEOPLE LIVE TEND TO SELL

64
ment.Iike a sloping ceiling,to define an office nook, or commandeer an alcove to showcase a prized memento or family treasure. Add a coat of bright paint to accentuate the details. And when planning your interior layout, don't forget the outside. If you're fortunate enough to overlook a beautiful landscape, take advantage of it by adding several windows to the wall. You'll bring in more light, create an instant focal point for that room and visually expand its size by blurring the boundary between the interior and exterior.
FASTER AND FOR MORE MONEY

1
-CHRISTOPHERWRIGHT,INDIANAPOLIS-BASEDREMODElER
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A HALF-WALL OPENS UP THE SPACE, WHILE STILL OFFERING SHELVES FOR BOOKS.
Boost Storage with Built-ins

Take stock of storage problems, and then figure out where to place built-ins or extra shelving. Ten-inch-deep recesses, for instance, can liven up an empty wall and handle glassware and dinner plates. Inthe mudroom, a flip-top bench makes handy seating and is a place to keep sports gear. A kitchen pantry is a valuable storage asset, and if it's designed to accommodate the things you use only occasionally, it doesn't even have to be located in the kitchen. You might"also build a window seat in an out-of-the-way nook to provide both a reading spot and space to stow extra linens under the seat. And in a guest bathroom, narrow shelving can accommodate visitors' toiletries.
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Make Rooms Do Double-Duty
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Free yourself from one-room definitions. Dining rooms and guest bedrooms can serve multiple purposes with just a few smart tweaks. Line a formal dining room with bookshelves so that it doubles as a library. To turn a spare bedroom into an office, install a Murphy bed and keep your computer and paperwork in a built-in hutch so that your office can quickly revert to a bedroom when guests arrive. You can add a small sink and cabinets to a laundry room so that it serves as a potting area for the gardener in the house. Even the busiest rooms can be adjusted to be more functional. If you divide the living room with French doors, you can separate the TV area from a quieter, den-like seating space.
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WIDE-OPEN SPACES
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YOU KNOW THERE ARE GOOD REASONS FOR MAKING A HOUSE ECO-FRIENDLY. CONSERVING OUR NATURAL RESOURCES IS A CORNERSTONE OF GREEN BUILDING. BUT DID YOU ALSO KNOW THAT IMPLEMENTING JUST A FEW GREEN FEATURES CAN REAP SAVINGS THAT CAN SIGNIFICANTLY PAY BACK YOUR INITIAL INVESTMENT? YOU'LL DOUBLE YOUR BENEFITS WHEN YOU CREATE AN INDOOR ENVIRONMENT THAT'S ENERGY-EFFICIENT AND HEALTHIER, TOO. CHECK OUT HOLMES MAGAZINE'S TOP 25 WAYS TO ACHIEVE A GREENER ABODE.
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0'2 e. PICK THE SITE CAREFULLY Consider building or retrofitting a house on a lot in town rather than breaking ground in a new development. Renovating cuts down on the use of resources such as lumber and nonrenewable materials like concrete. Fewer new buildings also puts less of a strain on municipal services, such as utilities and roads.
A house located near grocery stores, retail shops, libraries and other services offers the option to walk more and drive less while fostering neighborhoods.
BE NICE TO THE LAND Avoid environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands or arid environs. Once you've settled on a location, situate the house so as to preserve the lot's best features-a grove of old trees, attractive native vegetation or pleasing topography; for instance. Before excavation starts, take an inventory of the plants and trees so you know what grows best.
Protect trees from the hazards of construction equipment with fenced barriers. Stockpiie topsoil removed during excavation for later use in landscaping.
TIP
Discuss with your builder how he will dispose of construction debris so as to recycle as much as possible. There are companies that reclaim architectural features such as molding or flooring from old houses and then sell them for reuse.
PLAN AROUND THE SUN Evaluate the lot's solar potential. which is the basis of passive solar design. Southern exposure is key; especially for heat gain during the winter. The long axis of the house, or at least its largest windows, should face within 22 degrees of true south. In addition to lowering heating bills, you'll also reduce electrical expenses since the house will get more natural light.
EXPLORE NEW TECHNOLOGY Builders can be slow to adopt new methods, even when they point the way to something better. Look for a general contractor experienced with advanced framing techniques like Optimum Value Engineering (OVE),as well as the principles of energy-efficient construction, such as careful air-sealing and insulation. Building with less framing material and more insulation than conventional houses translates to better indoor climate control. Ask your contractor to show you houses where he's used these features and inquire if he has received certified training in green building techniques. For more information, visit nahbgreen.org.
INVEST IN ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS Double-glazed,low-E windows are standard these days,but there are even better alternatives.Look for triple-glazed windows made with special reflective films,and insulated spacers and frames.They can cost several times more than double-glazed windows,but in areas with extreme temperatures, you'll recoup the initial cost by reducing utilitybills.
Select glass type based on a window's location. In cold climates, install windows with a high Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (the amount of heat it transmits from the sun) in southern exposures to maximize the sun's energy in winter and provide free heat. On east- and west-facing walls and in hot climates, use windows with lower SHGC ratings to block summer's warmth. For more information, visit the National Fenestration Rating Council at nfrc.org.
!!!II
IMPROVE INSULATION Local codes typically require builders to pack walls with enough insulation for an R-40 rating, and roofs to R-60 or more, but it is often smart to install more insulation than is specified. R-value measures resistance to heat flow:The higher the value, the more effective the insulation. Closed-cell spray polyurethane foam, or a soy-based urethane foam, fills even the smallest gap and therefore does a much better job of seal equivalent seals drafts better than conventional fiberglass batts.
~.
\0'0
TIP
Before you add insulation, '---".
have
your home checked for air leaks, then have them sealed.
70
Ei
hi
LANDSCAPE WITH NATIVE PLANTS Indigenous plants tend to be hardy and droughttolerant-they need less supplemental watering and adapt better to the local climate. This translates into less landscaping maintenance, including replacement of plants, and lower water consumption. If you're not sure what to plant, consult a local nursery, a horticultural society; a university branch in your province or state, or the county extension office.
SKIP THE BIG LAWN Huge expanses of green lawns may still signify suburban homeownership, but vast amounts of time, money and natural resources are allocated to maintaining them. And while chemical fertilizers and pesticides keep lawns lush, they also leach into local waterways, compromising water quality and promoting algae growth. Gas-operated lawnmowers, while necessary for upkeep, are noise and air polluters. Replace or reduce lawns with native/xeriscape plantings-or even decorative rock gardens-that don't require much water.
To nourish plants without chemical fertilizers, start a compost heap using kitchen scraps (no meat), leaves and garden clippings.
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INVEST IN HIGH-EFFICIENCY HEATING APPLIANCES New gas-fired appliances run at efficiencies of 95 percent or more. Replacing a standard boiler or furnace with an ENERGY STAR-qualified model pays immediate dividends by reducing fuel consumption by up to 50 percent.
,,
CONSIDER A HEAT PUMP Heat pumps don't burn fuel directly-instead, they extract heat from the air or the earth and concentrate it for heating the house and domestic water. They are one and a half to three times more efficient than fuel-burning appliances because they move heat rather than converting it from a fuel.
Air-source heat pumps can also function as air conditioners, saving the cost of buying a separate AC unit.
72
FOR COOLING, THINK SIMPLE Air conditioners are major energy consumers. While you may feel you cannot live without one, a few simple strategies can reduce how much you rely on it. Open windows at night when the outdoor temperature is comfortable and flush stale air out of the house with an attic fan. Closing the house in the morning, and drawing the drapes in sunny rooms, helps contain cooled air during the day.
Size roof overhangs so that they block summer sun but still allow sunlight in winter.
CHOOSE ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES Appliances rated as ENERGY STAR-qualified use less electricity than standard ones. When shopping for an appliance, consult the EnerGuide label to evaluate models. The labels provide useful comparisons of annual energy consumption as well as the cost of operation. For more information, see energystar.gov.
Even more efficient and longer lasting than CFLs are new-generation light-emitting diodes, or LEDs. Another benefit: They don't contain mercury. Expensive nowyou can easily spend $50 on a fixture-and they're mostly available for outdoor use. Expect prices to drop as their applications become more widespread.
EMPLOY EFFICIENT LIGHTING M much as 90 percent of the electricity used by standard incandescent light bulbs produces heat, not light. These energy dinosaurs are phasing out in favor of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs),which use 75 percent less power to produce the same amount of light. They also last up to 10 times longer.
ELIMINATE PHANTOM LOADS The U.S. Department of Energy says 75 percent of the power consumed by electronics in the home (televisions, stereos, computers) as well as appliances (washing machines, coffee makers, toasters) occurs while we think the equipment is turned off. This creates a phenomenon called phantom loads. Why? These devices are in a standby mode so that they can power up immediately when needed. Stop this waste. Plug computers, televisions and the like into power strips or a switch-controlled outlet that can be shut off when the devices aren't operating.
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'Y'
INSTALL DRAIN WATER HEAT RECOVERY Your water heater uses a lot of energy to produce hot water for a shower. A drain water heat recovery device, which costs between $300 and $500 according to the U.S. Department of Energy; is a heat exchanger that replaces part of a conventional drain line, capturing the heat before it's lost and returning it to the hot water supply. Systems are available with and without storage capabilities. Those without save energy only when hot water is actually being used-when someones taking a shower, for example.
CUT WATER CONSUMPTION More than half of a home's daily water tally comes from indoor plumbing fixtures-showers, sinks and toilets. Replace giant showerheads with low-flow models and reduce consumption by as much as 35 percent. As for toilets, opt for low-flow or dual-flush models to meet the industry standard of 1.6 gallons per flush.
Tc1-
GET AN ENERGY AUDIT This thorough inspection of your home's energy consumption will point to ways to reduce, such as replacing windows and appliances, adding insulation and sealing air leaks. Costs range from $200 to $2,000, depending on what the audit covers.
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FEBRUARY
T~(,., ".'--~t
SPECIFY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY MATERIALS INDOORS Look for wood products that don't contain formaldehyde, aldehyde or acids, which off-gas from wood products such as particleboard and medium-density fiberboard made with urea formaldehyde adhesives. It can be found in furniture, cabinets, countertops, shelving and some interior doors. Alternatives-such as wheat board or panel goods made with phenol formaldehyde binders-will keep your air cleaner.
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CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES TO STANDARD FLOORING Polished and dyed concrete makes a dazzling interior floor.You'll save the cost of installing an expensive finished floor, and unlike carpeting, concrete won't harbor mold, dust and pet dander. It's also less susceptible to water and insect damage. If you prefer resilient flooring, avoid sheet vinyl and get real linoleum, which doesn't contain phthalates, the chemical additives found in many plastics. For wood floors, check out bamboo (made from a fast -growing member of the grass family) or cork.
Mannoleum
FROM $4 PER SQ. FT. For retailers, visitforbo-flooring.us
FSCOak
FROM $7.70 PER SQ. FT. For retailers, visit duro-design.com
Bamboo
FROM $1.99 PER SQ. FT. Available at homedepotcom
Cork
FROM $1.49 PER SQ. FT. Available at lumberliquidators.com
Polished Concrete
FROM $5 PER Sa. FT. to finish existing concrete. Available through concrete finishers.
Reclaimed flooring is real wood with an added. benefit: It's already been harvested, so it uses no natural resources and keeps materials out of the landfill.
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Introducing the Bosch 12" Dual Bevel Axial-Glide~ Miter Saw. Another game-changing breakthrough from the innovation leader. Carpenters, remodelers and cabinet and furniture makers alike will marvel at our new patented Axial-Glide" system, featuring a robust cast aluminum arm with sealed ball bearings to deliver durable precision and unprecedented smooth travel and control at all angles. Upfront bevel controls make adjustments quick and easy. The rail-less design of the GCM12SD achieves an amazingly compact footprint - up to 12" smaller than competitive saws. Evolutionary performance revolutionary design - by Bosch. Learn more at www.boschtools.com/glide
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ORDER CERTIFIED WOOD FOR CABINETS AND TRIM Specifying wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is one way of making sure your house doesn't contribute to reckless forest devastation. To earn certification, lumber suppliers must demonstrate that harvesting practices are, in fact, sustainable. On request, suppliers should be able to show tchain-of-custody" paperwork proving the lumber has been followed from forest to lumberyard.
J
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1'.
INSTALL A METAL ROOF Roofing made from steel, aluminum or copper should last far longer than asphalt, with a much lower environmental penalty. (Recycling asphalt roofing products isn't widespread yet, and discarded shingles put a substantial burden on local landfills.) Metal roofing, on the other hand, usually contains recycled content and can go back to the recycler once more at the end of its service life.
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Install Smart Screen and forget about cleaning out your eavestrough. Smart Screen is the Gutter Protection System that filters out leaves and debris to keep gutters clean and free-flowing. Smart Screen's heavy-duty, all aluminum construction, and its front and back fastening to eliminate system, strengthens the entire gutter system damage from wind, animals and the weight of snow your gutters while providing
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"
coSix homes work with nature to lift sustain

Most of us live with a few drafts and seasonally high energy bills. But not in these homes. They produce their own electricity or redirect rainwater to flush toilets. In fact, the buildings shown on these pages almost banish utility billsand cost as little as $149 per square foot! Read on to see if their green attributes are ones you can copy.
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FEBRUARY
ouse
ability to new heights.
TEXT JEFFERSON KOLLE
TITS CONCEPTTION, This new home in Arlington, Virginia, epitomized ecofriendly building principles: Its site had been half of a double lot that Patty Shields bought for the historic 19th-century farmhouse on one side. Using the other side to build a new house kept the project from contributing to sprawl elsewhere (a socially responsible plan) and more than repaid Shields's investment when it sold. What more could a homeowner want? How about a property that uses clean energy and generates savings for future owners. Shields, a LEED Accredited Professional, and owner of design-build firm, Metro Green, turned to Kaplan Thompson Architects in Portland, Maine, to draw up her vision. The architects delivered plans for the structural gem shown here. The home is heated and cooled by an underground geothermal pump (see "Working with Nature," p. 84) and carefully positioned to allow its large east-facing casement windows to open up to prevailing summer breezes for maximum passive cooling and less reliance on the air conditioner in summer months. For comfort when it's cold, exterior walls and the roof are made of ultrathick structural insulated panels, which incorporate a polystyrene foam center between two layers of oriented strand board. Meanwhile, a rooftop rainwater-collection system irrigates the landscaping on the south side of the house, a move which helps trim the water bill. Based on these, among other features, Shields acquired a sort of birthday present for the new
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83
house: a LEED Platinum certificate, the highest green designation possible, and the first for any home in Virginia. The recognition speaks volumes about the way Shields managed her project, since LEED and its eight categories of qualification take into account every step of a building's construction, including the site's clean-up practices and each tradesperson's workmanship. Shields knew from her past projects, for instance, to weed out workers with bad habits that can undermine a green builder's intentions. She found that it pays, in the long run, to avoid
the likes of plumbers who cut through floor joists to run waste pipes, and jeopardize framing, and painters who thoughtlessly dump cleaning chemicals under shrubs. Instead, a truly green effort goes beyond selecting energyefficient windows and avoiding off-gassing materials to setting ground rules for everyone involved-with a clean conscience among the big benefits. Building new was "a chance to get it right from the beginning," Shields says. We,the editors at Holmes magazine, couldn't have said it better ourselves.
A Fitting Floor Plan

This home's tri-Ievel, splitrectangle design helped architects fit 3,825 square feet of living space onto its irregularly shaped lot. With neighbors so close on either side, the solution was to build up, not spread out. The main floor holds the kitchen, dining and living areas in one big open plan. An adjacent den is closed off by a sliding door. Upstairs is filled out by two bedrooms, a bathroom, laundry room, and a master suite with its own walk-in closet and bath. An additional living space, with its own kitchenette and half bath and door opening onto a deck, maximizes one corner of the roof.
2nd floor
WORKING WITH NATURE

RELYING LESS ON UTILITIES
A geothermal pump in the home's basement uses the earth's temperature to provide heating and air conditioning indoors. The ground-source heating and cooling system is a smart, money-saving upgrade if you're building new, but prohibitive to add as a retrofit. Here's how it works: Two
holes are drilled hundreds of feet into the ground and a loop of pipe i~ installed-320 feet deep in this case-to a depth where the earth stays at a constant temperature of about 56 degrees F (13.3 degrees C). Water pumped through the closed loop absorbs heat from the ground. The heat is transferred to the home through a heat
exchanger. For cooling in summer, the system works in reverse-heat from the warm house is transferred to water in the loop where it passes below ground and gets cooled. Now, it costs a mere $180 per year to heat the entire house, and $126 per year to cool it. And most of that cost comes from running the
electric water pump and heat exchanger. But even the electricity charges-along with the water bill- are minimized: 10 photovoltaic solar panels on the roof provide about 2.8 kilowatts of electricity. Meanwhile, the roof is the source of the rainwater directed to a 540-gallon tank that's used for irrigation.
84
rniles from the Canadian border, Nancy Schultz and her husband John Eckfeldt never feel a chill. That's because their home is carefully built to keep itself at a constant 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of winter when temperatures dip to about 6 degrees F (-14 degrees Celsius). What's more, the warmer house costs less than most others to heat, because it doesn't burn a drop of oil, a stick of firewood or any natural gas. Instead, its attractive rooflines function as a heat factory.They're lined with solar vacuum tubes and photovoltaic panels, which harness the sun's heat and transfer it via an intricate system to special storage areas buried deep beneath the house's concrete-slab foundation. On one roof, 92 solar vacuum tubes collect more than enough heat to warm the house and supply hot water for the couple during the week. Waiting to receive the heat is a storage area filled with 9,000 cubic feet of a heat-absorbing sand and taconite, which is a low-grade iron are. Two others hold heated water and cycle it to the house
I t
MAY BE COLD OUTSIDE, BUT INSIDE TIDS NORTHERN MINNESOTA
HOUSE, A FEW
.~!j!j..;~"""'--~6:
COST
whenever a tap gets turned.

~~~~~I
Solarvacuum tubes fill in for a hot water heater
"Our house makes all the energy i u es"

-NANCY SHULTZ, HOMEQWNER
Another roof plane is rigged with photovoltaic panels that generate 11-000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. In fact, on sunny days, they make more power than the house uses, and literally pay back the homeowners since the local utility is required by law to buy the excess. Of course, to hold the heat, the home is also well-insulated by super-thick walls which are framed out with two rows of two-by-six studs sandwiching a thick layer of dense-packed cellulose insulation. For even more sustainability and savings, the owners also had systems installed to collect and redirect rainwater for use indoors flushing toilets and washing clothes, as well as cutting their reliance on potable water to irrigate the house's
landscaping. To add even greater value to the property, the couple decided to submit it for a LEED Platinum-certification, which it received. Schultz and Eckfeldt have been in the house for a little over a year now; and the place is everything they imagined: healthy; comfortable and lowmaintenance. Schultz occasionally checks the equipment that controls and records the workings of the house's systems, only to find there isn't much else to do to keep their home thrumming along. "Sometimes I'll find myself looking out into the woods and standing with a door open, thinking 'Close it-you're wasting energy.' And then I remember: this house makes its own energy; all by itself."
WORKING WITH NATURE

AN UNDER-THE-FLOOR PLAN
Beneath the house, three massive storage areas hold dry heat or hot water. Then a
network of meters and sensors that monitor the solar tubes collecting heat on the roof pumps
water to one of these underground holding areas-either the sand/taconite mixture,
a SOO-gallonwater tank or an 80-gallon domestic hot water tank-where the water
is heated for showers and clothes washing.
5'51/2"
FUTURE
THERMAL STORAGE AREA
BENEATH ITS FOOTPRINT
MECHANICAL
ROOM
The special heat stores providing the domestic hotwater supply are actually built into the concrete-slab foundation.
THERMAL
STORAGE AREA
88
HOlMES~
Homes
Size-Conscious
This house is part of an entire "green" development called Windermere on the Lake, where even the roads throughout the subdivision have semi-permeable surfaces, which allow rainwater to soak into the ground instead of running off and increasing the risk of erosion. Native landscaping decreases the need for irrigation.
EED IS NOT A DISTINCTION NORMALLY rewarded to huge houses such as this one in Stamford, Connecticut. That's because, all things being equal. a large home simply consumes more materials and energy than a small one over its life cycle. But the builders of this Craftsman-style manse-its modern interior totals almost 8,000 square feet- have packed in enough sustainable features to bust the bighouse stereotype. A geothermal (or ground -source) heating system cuts the home's reliance on fossil fuels. Low-E windows, low-VOC paints, FSC-certified wood floors, and a two-part insulation system in the walls and roof (that's one layer of polyurethane spray foam plus one of fiberglass batts) all help this behemoth run as if it were smaller. Still the house passed the stringent test-a point system in which size absolutely does matter-to be certified LEED. In fact, it registers extremely low on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, which tracks the relative amount of energy a house uses, based on a computer modeling of its construction plans and an on-site inspection. The formula is simple: A house built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code specifications gets a 100 HERS Index, while a home that uses no more energy than it produces gets a score of O. Somewhere in
J -~ .. 1st floor 3rd floor
If
2nd floor
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FEBRUARY
2011
91

the middle is an ENERGY STAR-qualified home, with a HERS Index of 85, meaning that it is 15 percent more energy-efficient than a house built to the 2006 code. By comparison, this mansion has a HERS Index of 49, which means it's 51 percent more energy-efficient than one much smaller and built to the same code. "This house has a lower monthly energy bill than the 1,200 square foot construction trailer we have on-site," says Mark Robbins, president of the NRDC Residential, a division of the National Realty Development Corporation, this home's developer. The family who purchased it, and asked to remain anonymous, found the added value of green and ultra-spaciousness well worth the home's cost of $430per square foot.
WORKING WITH NATUR~

J
Marketing of Windermere on the lake, the 74-acre, 24-house development has centered around its efforts to appear eco-friendly. The developer NRDCclaims it has sought to preserve-and even improve--the site where possible. That meant invasive, non-native plants were removed and replaced with native species where possible. Wetlands were restored and the property's lake and pond were enlarged and deepened. Wildflower fields were left untouched and bluebird nesting boxes were added and are now home to songbirds and other native species, such as tree swallows that keep insects in check. Houses are grouped together to lessen any disturbance to the land and encourage community. Meanwhile, 25 acres of the site were kept as open space, and another 25 acres were donated to the Stamford land Conservation Trust-the largest gift in the trust's history. And a full 85 percent of the construction waste was diverted from a landfill by recycling or reuse. .
92
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.29-5.'.
Airtight building envelope is sealed against leaks
COST;!
HE COMBINED MONTHLY \ gas and electricity bill for ~ Joe Turner and Rebecca Guymon's former 1950s-era house in Salt Lake City was averaging about $140. Not bad, but they felt they could do better, which is why they wanted to renovate. But when the bids for an energy-efficient retrofit came in high, they decided to demolish the old house and build the new one shown here. The gamble paid off: Now their bills average a mere $12 a month. And both the new comfort and the extreme
Per 5qUare
savings are thanks to their architect Dave Brach, who specializes in an up-and-coming building design standard called Passive House, and urged them to invest in the idea. Following that model (see "Working with Nature," p. 96) led to a house with 12-inch-thick walls, sitting on an insulated foundation, and most importantly a tightly sealed frame to eliminate energy-squandering air leaks. In fact, the air-sealing was a painstaking process, which took place several times during construction. Caulk and expanding foam were used wherever two different building materials met up, like between the
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Basement
~
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What is a Passive House?

Passive House is based on the German building standard, PassivHaus,which promotes the idea to use less energy. Architect Dave Brach suggested that this building method would work to create the energy-efficient home shown here. To qualify as a Passive House that is recognized by the Passive House Institute US (PHIUS)or Passive Buildings in Canada, a house must only use a minuscule amount of energy-typically about 10 percent of what a code-built house consumes. The main components of a passive house (which must be properly placed to work together) are:
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1
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1st floor
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Windows and glazing A surface to absorb heat from sunlight A thermal mass to retain absorbed heat A heating- and cooling-distribution system Elements to limit heat gain in summer (such as roof overhangs and low-E blinds)
PHIUS sets up third-party testing during and after the construction, and awards certification only if the house passes all tests. A proprietary energy-modeling software, known as the Passive House Planning Package, calculates the eventual energy use of a house based on the house plans, the location of the house and every building material you throw into the mix. For example, add a window to the north side of the house that will lose instead of gain heat, and the PHPP will determine how much energy the house will squander. Cover the house with sheets of rigid-insulating-foam and the program will calculate how much energy the house will save.
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UPPER LEVEL PLAN 114";1'-{I"
holmesmagazine.com
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95
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wood framing and the foundation. And as in all Passive House designs, anywhere the building envelope was penetrated - including around plumbing vents, exterior light fixture and faucets, and ventilation exhaust vents-it was sealed. Several times during the construction a device called a blower door was used to detect missed leaks. After the test, any newly discovered gaps were sealed, and tested again, until the house was airtight. Common leak spots, like windows and exterior doors, got the same treatment. The reward for such exhaustive sealing is that
WORKING WITH NATURE

AIR-SEALING
Similar to all Passive Houses, the air-sealing in Turner and Guymon's house took lots of time and attention.
LOTS OF INSULATION
The foundation was made from insulated concrete forms (ICFs); these are hollowcentered rigid-plastic foam forms that are reinforced with rebar and filled with concrete. The ICFs are left in place to insulate the foundation. The basement walls are framed with two-by-fours on the interior side, and filled with highdensity fiberglass insulation. The house's double-stud exterior walls are 12 inches thick, and filled with blown-in, high-density fiberglass; the 24-inch-thick roof trusses are filled with the same material. Superinsulated windows and exterior doors complete the building envelope.
SOLAR DESIGN
When the sun shines, the solar heat coming through the windows warms the concrete floors, which act as a thermal mass and then radiate the warmth back into the building in the evenings. And on extremely cold days, the basement and breezeway floors have an in-floor radiant heating system. The three solar thermal panels on the roof provide power for the minuscule heating system. The panels help
heat a 100-gallon storage tank that's filled with 160-degree F (71-degree Celsius) liquid. The storage tank heats hot water for domestic use, and circulates the liquid through coils in the energy recovery ventilation (ERV)system to heat the house. The ERValso works to control moisture levels. During extensive cloudy periods, a small electric resistance heater warms the water in the system. And on hot summer days, a very efficient evaporative cooler-a fan that uses water-dampened pads to cool warm outside air before it's distributed through the house-lowers the temperature inside the building. The roof is fitted with photovoltaic solar panels that produce the majority of the electricity the house uses. During the summer months, the panels produce more power than Turner and Guymon can use. That extra power is fed back to the utility company and banked as credits for when the homeowners need more power during the cooler months.
96
FEBRUARY
it doesn't take much energy to heat and cool the highly insulated house. Along with its airtight energy efficiency; the house also features dual-flush toilets and sustainable bamboo flooring on the second floor (the ground floor is concrete). On the exterior, awnings cover the patio and shade the walls from the sun. Drought-tolerant land-
scaping gets what little hydration it needs from a waterharvesting system on the garage roof. In winter, the exterior walls and windows aren't cold to the touch the way they were in the old house. "Initially;we weren't geeking out about energy-efficiency. But the more we learned about Passive House, the more it felt like the way to go,"Turner says.
IIWeweren't geeking out about efficiency, but a Passive House felt like the way to go."
-JOE TURNER, HOMEOWNER
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REEN,AFFORDable, low-maintenance, modernthis was Tony . Cioni and Kendall Moholitny's dream for their ecofriendly weekend getaway and future retirement pad. But above all. they wanted something that would respect their beloved spot of land in the Albertan wilderness. "I've been to 50 countries, but I can list on one hand the few places in the world that I find as pretty as this: says Cioni. Their new home takes in the sweeping vistas of Crowsnest Pass, including the famed Frank Slide (a historic slope in the mountain caused by a landslide that buried part of the town of Frank over 00 years ago). But it also boasts more than just a killer view: the home is a great example of how building small can minimize your footprint, bills and environmental impact. Who'd guess that a prefab modular home could do all that? Designed by the Winnipeg, Manitoba, architect Herbert Enns, and built by Challenger in Altona, Manitoba, (a division of Conquest Manufacturing), their new house isn't LEEDcertified (though it could be), doesn't have solar panels (yet) and is heated by gpod old-fashioned gas. But it is small and superefficient-a simple idea that is gain\\: ing steam. Many 'of r, homeowners are ~ warming to the logic that smaller houses use fewer resources,produce less waste and cost less to run.
...-
Working With Nature

Windows positioned for passive use ef solar energy
The home is clad in Cor-Ten steel, a naturally rusting material that will, along with naturally fading cedar sections on the exterior, eventually make the home virtually disappear into the landscape. "There's something neat about these materials over time becoming more like their surroundings-there's an evolution to that," says Cioni. "And since we were drawn to the area for its natural beauty, we want to lessen the appearance of our building as much as possible. It preserves, in essence, what we're seeing."
~.
~.
The house is a mere 78 by 27 feet, with two 22-degree bends at each end. One end of the modernlooking structure contains bedrooms, while the other is a covered deck. A second-floor office transitions into a rooftop deck that, when combined with the downstairs covered deck, makes almost 1,000 feet of outdoor living space. The area surrounding the home, while still mostly upturned dirt at print time, will soon return to the native scrubland. The space inside the house is cozy,airy and filled with light, and the amazing view is always closeby;thanks to the many windows. The floor is made of offset panels of fir plywood, while the ceiling and walls are a bright birch that Cioni says will never need painting or staining again. Ample recessed storage behind the home's sliding doors puts all clothing and other items out of sight and out of mind, freeing the rooms up for use (there aren't even dressers in the house). "Our neighbors have these giant houses with ore space than they could ever need," Cioni says.r'We wanted something that wouldn't be even 10 square feet more than we can use."
:::::::
"
T
IIOur neighbors have too much space. We didn't want more than we can use."
-TONY CION" HOMEOWNER
100
-----
PREFAB BENEFITS
MODULAR BUILDING
Building modular in a controlled factory environment is building green, according to Donovan Fowke, general manager of Conquest Manufacturing. Modular homes are a type of prefabricated home built in sections in a factory and then joined together on-site. He says these systems-built homes generate less waste, cause minimal site disruption and are much more efficient to buildespecially in terms of time.
THE SUN AND THE WIND
Setting the home up for solar power generation would have cost the family an additional $12,000. They've decided to
postpone that addition for now, but the home has been designed with solar in mind, from the positioning of the structure, to built-in extra storage for batteries, and wiring that's been configured to allow for the addition of panels. But that doesn't mean they're not taking full advantage of the sun already. During winter, when the sun is lower, the building's position will allow those warming rays to penetrate through one of the building's banks of heatholding triple-pane low-E windows. During summer, when the sun is higher and warmer, a precision-designed cedar awning protects the windows.
The air space between the Cor-Ten steel cladding and the outer wall of the structure helps to prevent the transfer of heat from the sun to the house. The strong breezes that come off the mountain are also put to work to naturally cool the home. The home's many windows help take advantage of the breezes by creating a stack effect-a natural convection through the house that forces the warm air to exhaust up the staircase and out through the windows in the rooftop pod. "If you pop open four windows just a little bit, you can cool the house down in five minutes flat," Cioni says. The
home is designed to operate with at least 30 percent less energy usage than your typical site-built house, according to Fowke.
WATER
A well provides water (a scarce commodity in these parts), which is heated with an instantaneous tankless water heater. Wastewater is dealt with through a gravitypowered septic system that includes an old-fashioned seepage field. "On the water end, we're really not impacting the environment very much; all the water we use comes from, and goes back into, the aquifer:' says Cioni.
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2011
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Northeast
Corner Ground View
TEXT: CHRISTOPHER
REYNOLDS
Eco-friendly building is the norm for Holmes Approved

When longtime Holmes on Homes fans Jon and Jennifer Conquergood
wanted to build a green custom home for their young family;the couple naturally wanted Mike and his team onboard. Holmes Approved Homes-the custom homebuilding arm
reen ames
Homes
of Calgary, Alberta,
of Mike Holmes' company-was launched with the Conquergoods' property as one of the pilot projects. When construction is complete in December 2011,with the help of Taradar Fine
Northeast Perspective
Homes, this will be one of the premier green homes in Canada; it features solar panels, thermally broken doors and windows, and a high-performance envelope filled with dosed-cell spray foam insulation. And one not-so-high-tech solution: a passive ventilation system-using ceiling fans and carefully placed win-
dows to take advantage of natural ventilation-will save the Conquergoods money by cooling the home, air-conditionerfree. According to Holmes Homes director Seth Atkins, "It was important to the Conquergoods to know they were getting the cake - not just the icing - of green design."
N0rthwest Cornee
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2011
103
Mike On The Road
The Holmes bus was a big hit on the road, with people honking and waving as Mike and the crew traveled from state to state.
"Mikes" of all ages came out in each city, including this little guy in Richmond, Virginia.
HOLMES US. TOUR 2010

What a wild ride! To celebrate the launch of HolmesMagazine, Mike and the crew made stops in Nashville, Atlanta, Charlotte, Richmond, N ew York, Pittsburgh and Chicago. The turnout was great, with fans of all ages coming by to meet the man behind Holmes on Homes.
Text Christopher Reynolds Photos Alex Schuldt
Fans lined up at Richmond's Books-aMillion to meet Mike and share their reno stories.
104
Mike's fans love him, and they love helping others, too. A Chicago woman (below), won a subscription to the magazine and then, in thanks, donated its cost back to the Holmes Foundation. Coming into Pittsburgh after a two-day stop in New York City where Mike met some of the workers at the World Trade Center.
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2011
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ROLLOUT THE BARREL Fontenay's Vintage Barrel

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Made of recycled glass, the gorgeous tiles from Oceanside Glasstile are baked, so they have a breaking strength of 900 pounds, making cracking unlikely. rrom $34 per square foot, glasstile.com
106
FEBRUARY
December/January
2011
NATURAL DISASTERS 30+

WAYS TO PROTECTYOUR . HOME
GARAGE SPECIAL
STORAGE IDEAS GEAR GUIDE SAFETY CHECKLIST
Know-How
Window Shopping
Choosing the right window is key. Here are five elements to
look for in a
good choice.
TEXT CHRISTOPHER REYNOLDS
Window sales folks talk a lot of technical jargon, so know the lingo. A good set of windows will save you money; add value to your home and keep you comfortable for years to come. Here's how.
1111111111I111111
PICKING THE PARTS

1 The Glass
Replacing the seasonal storm windows of years past, double-glazed windows are now standard issue, and triple-glazed windows are gaining indemand. Choosing triple-glazed costs about 15 percent more, but that can usuallybe recouped in energy savings in three years.
2 Low-E Coating
A low-E coating, a superthin layer of metal now found on many windows, lets in the sun's rays while preventing heat loss (the E stands for emissivity, or a window's tendency to "leak" heat). Opting for this metal oxide film on a doubleglazed window can add as much insulation as an entire additional pane of glass.
3 Gas Fill
While the sealed air gaps between the panes of a doubleor triple-glazed window provide insulation, adding gas fill inthis space provides more. Argon is a type frequently available for no additional cost. Krypton, another option, usually increases the window's price.
4 Spacers
: It's amazing the I difference a little strip I of material can make. Traditionally made of aluminum, the spacers separating a window's panes rest directly against the glass and can contribute to serious heat loss when made of conductive metals. Ask for spacers made of a composite instead, for their 20 percent better performance.
5 The Frame
: Most people weigh I price and aesthetics. I But here's another I consideration: While wood and vinyl rames f (likethe one above) offer similar levels of insulation, the honeycomb pattern of air pockets in some higher-l1d windows vinyl are filledwithspray foam, offeringextra insulation.
108
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FinalWord
Green
We all want to be eco-friendly, but don't get duped in the process.
TEXT GREG HUDSON
Y [YJ
ou're an ecoconscious consumer. That's great, but some unscrupulous builders and corner-cutting contractors might take advantage of that. It's called greenwashingwhere businesses sell not-so-green ideas using marketing spin-and it's been the bane of earth-savvy shoppers since the ecofriendly movement began. Here are some simple steps to help you avoid being betrayed by your good intentions.
VIEW EDEN ALS Some contractors stretch what green certification is-it's easy to draw a logo and call yourself legit. True certification comes from an unbiased third party. Stick with companies that employ LEED-certified professionals or those that qualify for ENERGY STARfor New Homes or GreenHouse Certified Construction. Remember, hiring a LEEDcertified contractor doesn't always guarantee a LEEDcertified project.
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In a young industry like green building, it's especially important to check your contractor's references. Ask your builder for information from clients who have lived with his eco-friendly improvements and have him prove he met third-party certifications. If possible, request an account of the client's actual savings. You can use a home's energy target (EnerGuide rating) to predict annual costs based on standard operating conditions.
"~T
Ask to see a list of what green building materials, features or processes your renovator is using in writing, along with a detailed summary of their benefits. (If your contractor is using FSC-certified wood, for example, they should be able to show you the paperwork.) A legitimate contractor will tell you exactly how your project will reach its eco-goals, and what percentage of savings you can get, based on actual third-party research.
V D Unethical builders might push for big eco-gestures, like a geothermal heating system or photovoltaic panels, which might not be right for your lifestyle or your home. Contractors that really care about being green (and not just taking your money) should start with simple, less glamorous additions (think better windows or a more efficient furnace), and only suggest a large-scale product or process if it's the right fit for your project.
112
FEBRUARY

HolmesMagazine Feb2011

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The Manual for Every Homeowner

AVOID ECOSALES SCAMS

. ,: .-..~~ WAYS TO RENOVATE RESPONSIBLY

135 Hardware Suites

1700 Handles and Pulls

250 Locks and Latches

7000 Other Distinctive Hardware Items

8 FROM MIKE 16 DISASTER LETTERS

10 FROM THE EDITOR 20 ASK THE PRO

FEBRUARY 2011 holmesmagazine.com

WELCOME TO OUR GREEN ISSUE. WHAT SHADE OF

Front the Editor

Take Your Time

Kelly Beamon, Editor

FEBRUARY 2011 holmesmagazine.com

THE MAGAZINE TO MAKE IT RIGHT~

A green roof can last 50 years or longer. Page 39

IN WITH THE OLD ...

ROBIN HOOD OF RENOVATION

A CLOSE FRIEND OF OURS NEEDED SOME WORK DONE

MY GIRLFRIEND BOUGHT A CONDO,

SHE BOUGHT A NOISE

WALLTITEECO, the purple insulation by BASF, The Chemical Company.

Major prerequisites prices for industrial WALLTITEECOTM, production.

WE RECENTLY MOVED TO BE CLOSE TO FAMILY AND TO RAISE OUR THREE BOYS

SEND US YOUR DISASTER LETTERS

PETER A. PEKELNY ONTARIO PRO PEST, EAST YORK, ON

The new 2010 Codes:

Order your 201 0 Codes from NRC Construction's www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/virtualstore

Codes are published

by National Research Council Canada on Building and Fire Codes in

Coming in February 2011

of the Canadian Commission

with Canada's provinces and territories.

My husband and I just bought a three-bedroom house. There is a room in the

I would make the following

Ask The Pro

A simple solution for abundant naturallight. .. The Sun Tunnel Skyliqhf

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO ASK THE PRO www.holmesmagazine.com

will be edited for length and clarity

Bring in the beauty and comfort of natural light

Skylights & Sun Tunnels

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

mm Plug a lamp or night light

mm The light turns

adding built-in shelves in your bathroom. Creative Publishing International. $25.

GLASS OPTIONS DID YOU KNOW? Up to 35% of a home's

MOTHER NATURE SURE HAS A LOT OF MOOD SWINGS.

A variety of glass options that will stand up to any weather.

'" CSQ. ti. ('. ~r:p5 ~ g~@ ... w N'WWMMAAM

DOYOUUVEIN AN OLDER HOME? CONSIDERADDING INSULATlON-

saying about contractors, painters, plumbers and tradespeople in your area.

FEBRUARY 2011 holmesmagazine.com

WHITE HOUSE, GREEN HOUSE

Comfort Zone Heating & Air Conditioning Cobourg, ON

truegreengeothermal.com Lakeview Geotech Ltd. Penticton, BC

comfortzonecanada.ca The Climate Controllers Lindsay,ON

lakeviewgeotech.ca Alf's Geo & Drilling Viking,AB

MLK Services Inc. Linwood, ON

alfsgeo.com Green Earth Group Moose Jaw, SK

MX Constructors Sturgeon Falls,ON

morrisonx.com Father & Sons Geothermal leamington, ON