How Green is Green Enough?
In talking with clients the question comes up about what elements they can use to make their project more "green". Clients also ask what does take to make your project a green project. The way that I usually break it down is that people should not try to think of things in black and white, but more in a graduating scale. The governing bodies that determine how green a project is use a system that assigns points to each green element, so their are different levels. In a way I have always practiced a green life style, not necessarily because I was trying to save the planet, but because it made sense. I've turned a 100 year old door into a table, used off-cuts from projects as fire wood, and recycled all the cardboard from construction projects because I wouldn't have to pay the cost that it takes to just through it in the dumpster. I believe in being effective and efficient, which are definitely part of the green picture. It's like buying quality shoes that last you ten years or longer versus a cheap pair that last you a year. If you buy energy efficient windows and doors, add insulation in the attic, and use energy efficient appliances it will end up saving you in the long run. Some are easy applications, some are more complex, like icf, insulated concrete forms. Here were I live, in Dallas county, they have instituted that projects must have apply green applications to 4 out of six possible categories. Overall each green element serves a purpose, even choosing just one will have an impact on your home. If you would like to add a green element to your house, remember to look at it as something with options, not as something either you are green or you are not.
Oosterhouse Construction Product Review
This blog is designed to bring homeowners and contractors together to discuss and collaborate on everyday products used in the home. Also, to discuss the new tools out in the market used in home construction. The buyers of these products are the ultimate decider of how well the products perform and hold up. The construction industry is constantly changing, so lets come together and give our feedback on in order to help homeowners and contractors get the most out of their purchases.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Lead Paint Has Become a Big Issue!
As of April 22nd 2010 the EPA has determined that any house built before 1978 must follow strict guidelines when being remodeled. It use to be that a homeowner could opt out of taking the necessary precautions when remodeling as long as no one under six was living in the house and no one was pregnant, but that option is no gone. Contractors will have to consider their projects budget and time needed to accommodate this, so homeowners be prepared. Although the cost should not be a huge increase, it will add to it. I have taken the class to be certified as a renovator. While I found the class necessary, I also found the changes needed to renovate will cause a bit of an adjustment for contractors. Things to consider when budgeting are signage, everything in the room to be covered in plastic, logging all requirements completed, training for employees, new protective clothing each day, employees submitting to tests to make sure lead levels are safe, and the list goes on. Also if you are a general contractor you need to make sure all of your subs are certified to work in the area. Now if a homeowner does not want to have lead testing done in order to avoid having their house labeled as one with lead based paint when they try to sell, they can do that. But the contractor will still have to perform all safe practices in accordance with the EPA and OSHA as a precaution. As a homeowner and contractor I can appreciate these rules, but as just a contractor I know if will make think twice about dealing with a "target house"(built before 1978). Not that I would not do it, but in lieu of a potential $37,500.00 max fine per day for a violation, that can be a heavy weight to bear.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Forza Stone & Thin Slate

Thursday, May 27, 2010
Ditra vs cement board
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