Commercial and residential architects are looking deep into how to save energy while powering and cooling (or heating) a building. One of the recurring themes for people willing for make or customize their homes is reducing the impact of thermal mass. But you don’t have to start building your second home on an empty plot…
A lot of window features and exterior accessories can add several extra steps to your chore list, but solar screens aren’t one of them. Here’s how to maintain your solar shields without adding to your workload. Unclip them in seconds so you can hose them down. Some window screens don’t come off easily. That means you…
Solar screens are a great way to reduce your energy bill. But if you’re putting off a final decision on whether or not to get them for your house because the potential savings don’t seem worth it, you can look forward to more than just increased savings once you install them. Here are a few…
One of the first rules of rental properties is adding fixtures and treatments that look good with little maintenance. Flooring should be tough and stain-resistant, or if it has to be carpet it should at least be easy to replace. Windows should look sharp without being finicky. And one of the easiest ways to keep…
During the warmer summer months of the year, nothing can be nicer than having a nice breeze and fresh air blow through your home. While a refreshing breeze is very nice, flies and insects can make it impossible to keep your windows open. For those that are struggling with insects in their home, having insect…
The summer sun is a powerful thing and, even if we don’t feel it as much, the autumn sun can be just as strong. The UV rays are even now starting to drain your patio furniture of color, especially if they have seat cushions and fabrics that aren’t fully treated. Direct sunlight also makes it…
Windows can either be a huge asset or a huge liability when you’re trying to keep your home cool during the summer. Whether you prefer a low base temperature or you want to beat the heat with good ventilation, focus on how your windows are influencing temperature changes, and strengthen your strategies with solar shields….
Most houses were constructed with standard, seamed gutters. They are easy for construction companies to modify and install on properties with slightly different dimensions and roofing orientations. But they were chosen for the company’s convenience, not your own. Gutters can only do their job if they have clear downspouts and open space, and traditional gutters…
Spring is a tricky season for managing energy costs; not only does the approaching summer weather make the air hot enough to make you want your air conditioning on, the temperature at night can plummet. If you’re looking for a way to shrink your energy bill, finding a solution that can combat both the heat…
Getting new interior window treatments installed can be a great way to make sure that your home feels comfortable and that you have the privacy that’s important to you. If you’re feeling stressed about selecting window treatments for your home, it’s a good idea to look into the following features that can come with blinds…