Category: Resources

    • A look at Biofuel

      Biofuel can be broken down into fuel made from plants. There are many forms; however, there are a few to focus on. Ethanol, Biodiesel, and Biomass have come to the forefront over the past 10 years, and have even caught the attention of the government. With increasing environmental concern, the government has shifted some focus…

    • Water Heaters: Solar versus On Demand/tankless

      www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12850 www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12860 Solar water heaters have been replacing gas water heaters over the past ten years at a rapid pace. Consumer interest in them is not solely for the tax credits, but also for their economic payback with cheaper bills and startup costs. The pros and cons for gas and solar water heaters are lengthy…

    • New Residential Client Survey – Architectural Services

      Jane Decker, my co-host of ArchiTalk Radio (www.ArchiTalkRadio.com) recently sent this questionnaire for feedback about new residential clients. It is a great tool to help anyone getting started on a residential renovation or new project to be aware of and consider: INSTRUCTIONS: Please read these questions in their entirety before answering. Then, consult with your…

    • A Green “Home Away From Home”

      Becoming environmentally conscious has emerged as a main concern of homeowners, business owners, and the government over the past decade. Green homes, with lower potable water consumption, less energy use, and better building materials are sprouting up all over the world and commercial businesses are following their lead. All of the basics of sustainability easily…

    • Quick Pros & Cons of LEED Certification and Green Building in South Florida

      Green Certification in Subtropical climates, such as South Florida, has many pros and cons and making the decision to go green can be a difficult but fruitful one. The heat in the summer and the pounding sun throughout the year make air conditioning here a basic necessity. Power bills are generally much higher than elsewhere…

    • New Florida Building Code in Effect March 15, 2012

      http://rscompanies.com/Check out the recording called “2010 Building Code Questions and Answer Webinar held March 13, 2012 at:http://www.floridabuilding.org/cm/cm_hottopics.aspxSlide the audio progress bar over to minute 33:47 to hear the answer on the retrofit provision that affects windows. Ann Stanton, the energy technical adviser at the Florida Building Commission, explains the 30% rule. She said “energy code…