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86Costs 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 16 months ago
91Quick & 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 16 months ago
82Healthy, Green Insulation Choices
by Elle MacKenna
(Photo: Yucel Tellici) With materials like soy and mushrooms, today’s green insulation choices can sound more like ingredients for stir fry rather than the components of an energy-efficient home.... published 13 months ago
75Sound 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 11 months ago
88Earth Friendly Countertops
by Elle MacKenna
Countertops can add tremendous impact to your home’s interior décor. At the same time, the manufacturing can have a negative impact on the environment. These days the countertop industry is teeming with creative products that offer Earth-friendly options without sacrificing style. published 13 months ago
81Eco-Friendly Paints: Low-VOC Options for the Environment
by Elle MacKenna
Conventional paint has never had a good reputation. It’s smelly, messy, old versions contained lead of all things and over the past decade it’s been tagged as a major indoor air pollutant. Today, thanks to consumer demand for healthier paints that perform, manufacturers are offering low-VOC options that are better people and the environment. published 14 months ago
76Green 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 13 months ago
66How to Choose Eco-friendly Flooring
by Elle MacKenna
Flooring is a significant choice at home. It affects how we feel in a room, how healthy it is and how much impact our home has on the environment. Today, there are plenty of eco-friendly choices that balance aesthetics with environmental responsibility. No product is perfect but there are ways to sort through the good, the bad and the just plain ugly. published 13 months ago
82Alternatives to Double Pane Windows
by Elle MacKenna
Windows have become a central focus in energy efficient building strategies. Newer technologies including double and triple glazing have helped boost window performance but these upgrades can be expensive and, depending on where you live, not necessarily the most cost-effective. Before you make a significant investment in double pane replacement windows, consider some alternatives. published 14 months ago
66Easy Home Improvements That Make a Difference
by Elle MacKenna
When it's time to sell your home should be looking its absolute best. These days, as the market turns towards buyers, this is even more important. There are easy home improvements you can make that aren't... published 10 months ago
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