Green Kitchen and Bath Makeovers, Part IV
So far, I’ve written about easy green makeover ideas, energy- and water-saving tips, and eco-friendly countertop options. In this post, we’ll explore the ever-growing choices for stylish and functional flooring in the kitchen and/or bathroom. Can you guess which type of flooring is shown here? Wood? Cork? Linoleum? Tile?
Tips to Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality this Winter
Winter may be a great time to “hibernate”, but if the air inside your home isn’t up to par, then it’s time to follow some tips to improve and maintain the quality of the air you breath. These tips will be especially helpful for sufferers of asthma, children and the elderly, but of course all [...]
Save Energy and Money This Winter
It’s easy to increase your home’s energy efficiency and comfort, while reducing your heating bills this winter. All around the house, there are ways to increase the “cozy quotient”, take the “chill out of the air” and save money on your energy bills. Plus, you’ll enjoy current Federal Tax Credits for many improvements.
Increase the Efficiency of Your Existing Fireplace
A roaring fireplace definitely seems warm and inviting on cold winter nights, but many older fireplaces are only 10% efficient! How does improved comfort, energy conservation, reduced energy costs, reduced noise, and improved indoor air quality sound? Here are some tips to increase your fireplace’s efficiency:
Energy Efficient LED Holiday Lighting
Looking for a way to brighten up both the interior and exterior of your home for the holidays without running up your electricity bill? Super efficient LEDs, or Light Emitting Diodes, are the answer! LEDs use 80-90% less energy than conventional incandescent lighting, plus they don’t heat up like incandescents. In addition, they last much [...]
Tax Credits for Efficient Wood-burning and Pellet Stoves
Not only will adding a new, clean-burning wood or pellet stove keep your home warm and toasty this winter, but efficient models will qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1500! A new stove can provide your home’s primary source of heat, or simply supplement it, and of course it’ll add ambiance to [...]
Green Makeovers for Kitchens and Baths, Part 1
Whether you’re on a tight budget or not, there are plenty of eco-friendly ideas you can implement to give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new look. In this first post, we’ll take a look at inexpensive, green fixes for these spaces — from decorative elements, to energy-efficient and water-saving strategies that will save you [...]
Make Your Home More Efficient this Fall
As cooler temperatures start to set in this Autumn, it’s a reminder that we’ll soon be spending more time indoors. To increase your home’s efficiency and comfort levels in the upcoming winter months, there are a few things to keep in mind. All around the home, from the heating system and the fireplace to insulation [...]
Fall Fix-Ups for the Yard, Part III
Autumn, with its pleasant temperatures and colorful beauty, is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the outdoors. It’s also the perfect time to get out in the yard to plant trees & shrubs, and of course, rake leaves. In previous posts, I covered “Fall Fix-ups” for the lawn and garden, and here, woody [...]
Surplus, Salvaged and Green Building Materials
Planning a weekend home improvement or remodeling project? It’s a perfect opportunity to use salvaged and surplus building materials. Green building warehouses and architectural salvage yards are popping up across the country and are full of interesting, new and used items. These building elements have been donated by local businesses and residents, as well as [...]
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