Welcome to Hiline Builders Web Log
May 9, 2013 2 Comments
“The planning and researching phases of a project are the most critical steps in the remodeling process,” says NARI National President Art Donnelly
I might add they are also the most time consuming. But proper planning and preparation can save a lot of headaches and remodeling dollars.
A major home remodel can be a daunting task. Read more of this post
March 24, 2013 Leave a Comment
Over sizing HVAC systems is all too common among contractors who think they’re doing their clients a favor.
One of the problems with over-sizing is over cycling. Over sized systems have shorter run cycles because it takes less time to bring the temperature to the desired setting. It’s like starting and stopping a car. The shorter the run cycle, the more often your system turns on and off thereby dramatically shortening the lifespan of the system. Read more of this post
March 11, 2013 Leave a Comment
Phil Vanderloo Drafting and Design logo
February 12, 2013 Leave a Comment
We use LEED as our instrument of collective expression in the world for people who are doing something to improve the planet through the built environment. LEED is an instrument of common expression; that’s a beautiful thing.”
Scot Horst, Senior Vice President, LEED, U.S. Green Building Council
The USGBC recognizes that for LEED to continue to drive market transformation it must constantly evolve along with the building industry and needs of the marketplace.
Among other objectives, LEED v4 strives to reduce carbon emissions more than any of the LEED rating systems.
You can read more about the intents of the revised version on USGBC’s website here- About LEED v4
After months of hard work and review of public comments, the USGBC is finally wrapping up the details to LEED v4 and preparing for implementation in June of 2013. When introduced , the use of v4 will be optional and not become mandatory until some time in 2015. Those who wish to continue using LEED 2009 can opt to do so.
I’ll be highlighting some of the changes coming up in v4 as well as reviewing existing credits that remain unchanged. You may want to read the full v4 update on the usgbc’s website here LEED V4 Draft
The LEED for Homes certification process offers several different credit options to pursue as well as some mandatory prerequisites that are required in all LEED for Homes Certifications.
These credit options are grouped into 9 different credit categories. Some of which include Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Location and transportation, and Indoor Environmental Quality. We’ve included one credit example below and will continue to feature other LEED v4 credits and revisions in the weeks to follow.
Your comments and questions are welcomed as we continue to try to create awareness for LEED and the benefits that can be obtained in LEED Certification including Healthier indoor environments for you and your family and greatly reduced energy costs to name a few.
Credit Example
Integrative Process IPc1
Integrative Process credit 1 will remain unchanged for the most part.
This credit’s Intent reads as follows:
To maximize opportunities for cost-effective adoption of integrative green design and construction strategies.
There are 3 options associated with IPc1
The options listed below are abbreviated versions. To read the full IPc1 credit requirements click here Credit Details
Option 1 involves assembly of the integrated project team and involving the team in the home’s design and construction Process.
Option 2 Is the Design Charrette
This involves conducting a full day workshop or 2 half day workshops with the project team
Option 3 involves training project subs in LEED protocol .
The trades training must include at least the following trades
• Plumbing
• Insulation
• Air Sealing
• Mechanical Systems
• Framing
February 10, 2013 Leave a Comment
Several years ago I ran across this article in Fine Homebuilder Magazine posted by John Lemon titled “What to Expect From Your New Home”.
I’ve always shared Mr. Lemon’s opinion that it’s best to prepare my clients for those post construction regularities prior to beginning construction so there won’t be any surprises.
I’ve kept copies of this .pdf and given them to several clients before the construction begins.
I thought this would be a good article to share here in my blog for those of you who may considering new home construction or a major remodel
You can read it in full Here
I hope you enjoy it and find it helpful.
January 12, 2013 Leave a Comment
Sometimes pulling the trigger on that room addition or kitchen remodel can be a little tricky. One roadblock I’m seeing folks run into a lot is this-
The only way to get competitive apples to apples cost estimates from multiple contractors is to be able to provide plans and a detailed scope of work so everyone is clear on what the project involves.
The problem is that most homeowners don’t want to spend thousands of dollars for plans until they have a pretty good idea of what the cost will be. And rightfully so. Read more of this post
January 6, 2013 Leave a Comment
Did you know that indoor air in our homes is 3-5 more polluted than outdoor air.
Americans spend on average 90% of our time indoors. That’s why indoor air quality is so important to our health.
Without proper ventilation your home can trap pollutants brought in from outdoors or volatile organic compounds from paints and other finishes. Not to mention mold and mildew problems from lack of moisture control.
You might want to consider an ERV, or Energy Recovery Ventilator, to properly balance fresh air intake while saving energy at he same time.
Read more about ERV’s here- http://www.ultimateair.com/
November 20, 2012 2 Comments
Well we made it.
We were faced with a challenging deadline to get this project completed before the owners annual party. Fortunately we were able to submit the plans and acquire a permit without any delays.
This project included-
We were able to get this one done 2 weeks ahead of schedule and the new kitchen was a huge hit at the party. Yes, yours truly was there to enjoy the festivities.
Watch the video of the completed project here-
October 4, 2012 Leave a Comment
We’ve just completed another master suite makeover that we wanted to share with you.
The project scope of work included removing a wall between the dressing area and bathroom to make a larger Master Bath complete with new cabinets, plumbing fixtures, counter tops lighting and tile.
Removing the carpet in the bedroom area exposed a beautiful oak floor which was re-finished. We also added new lighting fixtures n the bedroom, baseboards and a fresh coat of paint.
Watch the video of the completed project here-
September 21, 2012 Leave a Comment
I’m very proud to announce that I just passed the LEED AP for Homes exam.
For those of you who are unfamiliar, LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the largest Green Building Certification body in the world.
My new designation as LEED Accredited Professional for Homes is complimentary to my existing LEED Accredited Professional for Building Design and Construction credential.
This qualifies me to guide clients through the LEED Certification process and participate in LEED Building Design Charrettes for planning and implementation of the LEED Program.
This also allows projects to aquire 1 point towards LEED Certification for having a LEED AP as a member of the project team.
This enables me to participate in certification of commercial or residential projects.
The West Village Net zero Community, Davis Ca.
