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Costs and Benefits of Low Solar Gain Windows
by Elle MacKenna
The shading capacity of low solar gain windows makes them useful in southern climates that have long cooling seasons. While solar gain is just one of many factors that determine a window’s energy performance, understanding the principles, costs and proper applications of low solar gain windows can help you save energy and money...read more published 2 years ago
Sound Insulation Options for Homes and Apartments
by Elle MacKenna
Noise pollution is an often overlooked environmental problem. Disturbance from unwanted sound can affect human health and performance, as well as disrupt wildlife. At home, sound insulation is an important... published 15 months ago
Quick & Cheap Ways to Make Windows Energy Efficient
by Elle MacKenna
If you want to boost your home’s energy efficiency the windows are the best place to start. It’s not necessary to invest in replacement windows to boost performance. With some inexpensive materials and a day or two of work you can significantly cut your heating and cooling costs. Here's how... published 2 years ago
Green Roofs: Energy Savings and Much More
by Elle MacKenna
Most green roofs in the United States are on large-scale commercial or public buildings but the residential market is catching up. Green roofs can be installed on traditional residences providing homeowners with a beautiful way to cut down their heating and cooling costs. published 2 years ago
How the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Can Lower Your Energy Bills
by Elle MacKenna
An energy efficient home provides lifelong savings. Unfortunately, most homes in the United States are not operating at their maximum energy performance. One of the best ways to improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your energy bills is with a professional home energy rating...here's how published 2 years ago
Refinishing Floors with Health in Mind
by Elle MacKenna
I come from a long-line of do-it-yourselfers and among the bevy of home improvement experiments we’ve refined with practice is floor refinishing. From experience, I can tell you that there are... published 17 months ago
Green Decking Options
by Elle MacKenna
Outdoor living spaces often become the favorite “rooms” of the house because they lend themselves to seasonal traditions and festivities. From enjoying summer BBQs to a quiet swing in the... published 17 months ago
Healthy, Modern Alternatives to Chemically Treated Pools
by Elle MacKenna
Chlorinated pools have been the standard in the United States, an industrial solution to the nasty natural bacteria and pathogens that breed in untreated water. Although chlorine systems are still embraced by many homeowners, healthier pool cleaning processes offer chlorine-free options...read more published 2 years ago
Do Air Filtration Systems Work and How Much do they Cost?
by Elle MacKenna
More and more the quality of indoor air is becoming a priority for homeowners. In addition to choosing low-toxic finishes and furnishings, air filtration systems can help improve indoor air by removing... published 15 months ago
Costs of R.O. (reverse osmosis) Water for your Home
by Elle MacKenna
Reverse osmosis (R.O.) can reduce contaminants in drinking water, typically dissolved solids and suspended matter - nitrate, sulfate and sodium among them. Coupled with carbon filters, reverse osmosis... published 15 months ago










