Posted by Damien Cabral on Tue, Jul 27, 2010
Everyone enjoys feeling proud of their home and protecting their investment. We take pleasure in having a green lawn, well manicured landscaping, and a fresh coat of paint. Is there any greater feeling than inviting your family and friends to your home and receiving a compliment like “You have done such a nice job with this house.” or “Your new windows look amazing.” With all these positive feelings, why don’t we always move forward with the home improvements we would like?
Doing Nothing is Easier
Well yes, doing nothing is always easier, but doing nothing will not solve the problem or increase the value of your home. But we are Busy! Many of us do not want to deal with contacting multiple remodeling companies, getting quotes, selecting a contractor, and dealing with the mess of installation. Often, these tasks can be time consuming and sometimes even a chore. You can make your life easier by contacting 1-2 reputable home improvement companies. By selecting a larger, reputable company you will ensure a streamlined process that will minimize your headaches.
Financing is Tough to Come by These Days
The post-financial meltdown era has left our credit markets in turmoil. Today, the government backs over 90% of American mortgages, hundreds of banks have failed, and credit card offers are harder to come by. At first blush, this environment does not bode well if you would like to borrow money to improve your home. Again, larger home improvement companies can help you with this problem. Large home improvement companies (like Moonworks) have direct access to the credit markets. We can help you receive financing directly with credit card companies (sometimes with no interest, no payments for 12 months) and even a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).
I Have Other Bills!
Now more than ever, Americans are saddled with scores of bills. It is hard to imagine that just 50 years ago (the Mad Men era) an American family could live off a single income, own one car, and graduate from a good college without any debt. As we are all well aware, we live in a different world today. Many of us are juggling weekly and monthly bills, working several jobs, and long hours. Many of us make just enough to provide for a modest income, a nice home for our family, and the occasional one week vacation. This doesn’t leave a whole lot in the rainy day jar for home improvements!
Well if you look at home improvements as another bill or an expense, you would be right. However, home improvements are not an expense, they are an investment with a cost. This is a confusing statement/concept so let me try to break it down with an analogy below.
Expense: An expense occurs when you exchange money for a good or service and don’t expect to ever see that money again. A great example is your oil bill! When you pay for an oil delivery you never expect to see that money again. You mailed your check to the oil company and fully expect them to cash the check and put the cash in their pocket.
Cost: When an item has a cost, it is vastly different than an expense. When you invest in the stock market or your 401k, there is a cost for you to own that investment. Yes, you no longer have access to that money but you haven’t lost it either – it is merely in another place, potentially (and hopefully) increasing in value. You also assume one day you will have access to that money again (when you sell the investment) and hopefully receive a profit. Many home improvements can be viewed in the same way. For example, when you invest in new windows there is a cost. However, you receive a monthly return in energy savings for the life of the windows (like a stock dividend) and when you sell your home one day, you can assume your home is now worth more with the new windows installed (like selling your stock).
If you are interested in investing in your home (and receiving dividends), be sure to Contact Moonworks for a Free Estimate Today!
Photo Credit: chiquitty
Posted by Damien Cabral on Tue, Jul 20, 2010
Blog Author: Rebecca McKinnon
Do you ever wish you could just sell everything, pay off all of your debt and live a more simple life? Well, you are not alone. Over the past decade, the tiny house movement has taken off. The elegant, clean and super organized living spaces of these homes are enough to inspire anyone to live the simple life. Living in one of these tiny homes requires not only a change in lifestyle but the ability to live your life without excess. And, to design one of these, takes ingenuity, meticulous planning, and passion.
The designers of these tiny homes are not only concerned with the most efficient and effective use of space and light but also the environment. In some cases, the designers use recycled and sustainable materials to construct these works of art. You don’t even realize that you are in such a small space due to the fact that they design around using light to make these spaces seem larger than they actually are. No matter if an individual, couple or family is living in the home, the idea behind this movement remains the same- the home is valued, no matter how big it is and/or how much it costs, and is not seen as a burden or stressor. It is a state of mind and therefore, there is no exact square footage that you must follow but most tiny home range from 65 sq. ft. to 850 sq. ft.
Most tiny home builders sell both the plans to build your own tiny home in addition to already assembled homes. Some to look into are: Tumbleweed Tiny House Company, Tiny House Design, and Twelve Cubed. The difficult part of the transition is working within the local building code guidelines and getting permits if applicable. Be sure to research the area you plan to build the home for regulations and most importantly loop holes. Building your tiny home according to the specifications of a travel trailer, shed, or in multi-family zones are the most advantageous as these have less strict guidelines.
Then, you must find land to put the home on. Most people rely on friends, family and friendly neighbors. Try researching alternative living friendly communities as these are more open to different types of homes and less judgmental neighbors. Campgrounds are another resource to look into.
Downsizing to a smaller home also saves on heating and cooling costs. The average tiny home owner pays about $100 a year in utilities if on the grid. Marine propane heaters, electric space heaters and wood stoves are commonly used. In addition, solar panels can be used keep the home off the grid. Saw dust composting and RV toilets with a waste tank are used in the bathroom and which one is used depends on whether you plan to be mobile.
There are many resources out there for people interested in tiny homes. Many of the tiny home builders live in tiny homes and blog about it. Tiny House compiled a listing of sites that offer invalueable information.
Some interesting resources and blogs to read are:
Tiny House Blog
Tumbleweed Tiny House Company
DIY-Prefab
The Tiny Life
RelaxShax’s Blog
Shedworking
Small House Society
Lloyd Kahn’s Blog
Project Rolling Freedom
In addition to the above resources, these companies also provide homes and plans.
Twelve3
Sonoma Shanty
Sheldon Designs
iStockHousePlans
FreeGreen.com
Yes Wee Cabins
Tiny Green Cabins
I tried to include everyone that I read about but I know there are probably more out there. Feel free to add other helpful information and sites that you like.
Be sure to check out the video featuring Jay Schafer of Tumbleweed Tiny House Company featured on Yahoo! below.
Photo Credits:
Cavco Cabin in Phoenix, AZ via Tiny House Blog
Completed Inside of Cube by Twelve3
Completed Outside of Cube by Twelve3
Tiny Texas House Rustic Farmhouse On Bear Creek
Tiny Texas House Vicky at Park Lane Guest House: Austin, TX
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Posted by Damien Cabral on Thu, Jul 15, 2010
For our second entry in the Really Cool Products Blog Series we venture into the bathroom.
Power-Pipe
Every time water goes down your drainpipe, energy is wasted. Power-Pipe attempts to recapture some of this lost energy. What in the world is a Power-Pipe? It consists of copper tubes wrapped around a copper drainpipe. The waste water from your shower or sink 
flows down the copper drainpipe, clinging to the inner surface as a very thin film. At the same time, cold fresh water travels up through the wrapped copper tubes. The heat in the wastewater travels safely and efficiently through the copper and into the cold fresh water. This may be difficult to visualize so we provided you with a great video explaining the product below.
The Power-Pipe can save you up to 35% in your water-heating bill every month. To save even more, click here to learn how to save up to 75% in your water heating bill with a Solar Hot Water System. Think of what a great team these two products could make in conjunction!
Hansgrohe PuraVida Faucet
Did you ever notice that a smooth calm stream of water provides a great source of relaxation? Think about it, a small stream in the woods, waves crashing on the beach, and now your bathroom faucet. Hansgroh’s line of faucets, PuraVida, provides a contemporary look and flowing source of relaxation for your bathroom. The faucet shown here features a concealed aerator and all-chrome finish. Give your bathroom a truly unique feel with this great focal point.
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Posted by Damien Cabral on Tue, Jul 13, 2010
That is right. Right now in England, thatched roofs are seeing a resurgence. Why you may ask? Thatched roofs have always been aesthetically pleasing but numerous concerns have limited their potential in the modern housing market. Some of these concerns included fire, insects, and expensive insurance. By marrying modern technologies, bug and fire retardant, with traditional thatching materials, the thatched roof is now a realistic solution for many homeowners. Because fire hazards have been reduced, insurance premiums have steeply declined. Additionally, thatchers today are better trained resulting in a higher quality build than you may have gotten years ago.
So why do people install thatched roofs? There is no better way to express it than straight from the homeowners:
"You get the wonderful snug feeling of a thatched cottage…” - Maureen Hind
"Outside noise is deadened in the upstairs rooms and when it starts to rain, you don't know anything about it for the first couple of hours because you don't get the dripping into gutters and hammering on to the roof tiles...What you do get is that lovely peaceful sound of raindrops gently falling from the thatch for a long time after it has stopped raining. It feels very natural, like the roof is breathing. There's no sound like it." - Roger Scanlan
In addition to providing a unique feel to the home, thatched roofs are eco-friendly. Thatch is a renewable material, usually water reed or straw. The demand for thatch material encourages the growth of wetland reed beds, which can provide habitats for threatened species. Furthermore, thatch proves to be a great natural insulator. Virtually all thatched roof homes should meet or exceed minimum insulation standards in most climates.
Both new construction and older homes are driving demand for this time-honored material. Thatch is versatile enough to create the traditional look of a cottage and the straight clean lines of a modern building. Be sure to take a look at some amazing thatched roofs below.
Quick Fact: Did you know that Moonworks carries shingles that can reflect the suns heat from your home? Learn more about Moonworks Cool Roofing Technologies Here!
Photo Credits: About.com
Posted by Damien Cabral on Wed, Jul 07, 2010
We thought it would be interesting to have an entire blog series dedicated to really cool products that we stumble upon, so here you go. Our first entry is focused on revolutionary fireplaces that are visually appealing and energy-efficient. The fireplaces below are anything but traditional. Be sure to take a good look at our collection of pictures!
Soapstone Fireplaces
Soapstone fireplaces are not all that common in Northeast homes. Did you know that soapstone holds twice as much heat per pound than iron or steel? This property enables soapstone fireplaces to slowly release radiant heat from the fireplace vs. heating the air directly. The results are a comfortable radiant heat that continues after the fireplace has been turned off. The heat can even be transferred through solid surfaces warming walls and adjacent rooms. If you are interested in learning more be sure to checkout Dorado Soapstone’s.
EcoSmart Fireplaces
Recently, EcoSmart Fire released the XL Burner, a sophisticated fireplace that would fit in well with any contemporary architecture. This conversation piece provides for an excellent room focal point and is easily installed inside or outside your modern dwelling. The XL Burner includes baffles (for fuel efficiency), drafters (for flame stability), smart filling point, and a new design shut-off mechanism (hinged plate adjustment rather than sliding mechanism). Additionally, the XL Burner utilizes renewable denatured ethanol as fuel. If you are interested in learning more about this amazing fireplace be sure to check out EcoSmart Fire.
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Posted by Damien Cabral on Tue, Jun 29, 2010
The economy has recovered and America is back on track…I know it doesn’t feel like it yet but there are some early signs, like the venture capital money flowing again. A prime example occurred this week, when Lowe’s Home Improvement injected $8 million of financing in a home energy efficiency start-up Recurve Inc.
This investment is historic in its nature because Lowe’s has never invested in any other early-stage company. The synergies with this relationship are not too difficult to uncover. Currently, there are billions of dollars of government money waiting to be released with the potential passage of the Homestar Bill. Additionally, energy audits and the subsequent retrofits lead to the purchase of energy-efficient home improvement supplies – which Lowes carries. Lowe’s can supply the exposure through in store displays to catapult Recurve into the big leagues while ensuring a steady stream of sold products.
What is Recurve going to do with $8 million? Good Question! Recurve plans on adding to its staff of 65 to push through it's existing business pipeline, which is filled with hundreds of orders for their energy auditing software. In addition to actually running energy audits and retrofits, Recurve has designed software that aids other contractors through the energy auditing process. This package is sure to take off as the energy auditing market begins to ramp up from its current infancy stage.
So what does this all mean? The immediate impact is not great but this investment is symbolic of the future of home improvement. Very large players (the government, Lowes, etc…) are now taking notice in the opportunities available to us in the energy-efficiency building industry. Soon, every home improvement, from paint to roofing shingles, will be tied to energy efficiency and green building. Energy-efficient building is arguably still in its infancy and will be sure to explode with future cash injections.
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Posted by Rebecca Langley on Thu, Jun 24, 2010
With summer upon us, most of us will be spending more time outside our home than inside it. Your outdoor environment should be just as comfortable as the interior of your home. In addition to landscaping, adding a few improvements to your outdoor space can not only make your yard more enjoyable, it can actually increase your home’s value. Here are some options to explore that may help make your home’s value increase and allow you to make the most of the summer season.
Make Necessary Replacements
Nothing makes your home look fresh like replacing the fundamental exterior components- roofing, siding and windows. These items not only make your home look appealing, they are vital to making your home safe from damage due to water, insect infestation, mold, mildew, wood rot and more. These repairs should take precedence over any other repairs because they directly impact your home’s value, safety and interior.
If you need a new roof, there are many options to consider since
shingles are available in a variety of colors to complement any home’s style. If it is energy efficiency you crave, try roofing shingles with granules that reflect the sun’s heat. Roofing isn’t the only area that has dramatically improved in technology. Siding has come a long way in the last few years and is now available in many textures, finishes and colors that make vinyl siding look like higher-end materials. Fiber cement, brick and stone are other options depending on your budget. Be sure to check the insulation when you replace these items as it tends to settle over the years.
Replacing your windows can make a huge difference in your home’s curb appeal and utilities. Technologies to look for are Low E glass that allows the home to stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Custom built replacement windows provide the best value because they fit snugly into the window frame and maximize the window’s energy efficiency.
These improvements will not only make your exterior look great but also make your interior more energy efficient and cooler during the hot summer months. Don’t forget to take advantage of the tax credits before they end on December 31, 2010. Many roofing, siding and window products discussed above qualify for this credit. For more information what products qualify for the credits, read our Tax Credit Explained white paper.
Adding a Deck or Patio
Decks and patios provide comfortable areas for families to gather, socialize and share meals. One key point to keep in mind, however, is that the size of the patio or deck must be proportionate to the size of your home. Adding an oversized deck to a small cape is not aesthetically pleasing and looks awkward. Your yard should be an extension of your home and reflect the same style. You can make the outside more pleasing and interesting by adding colors, stains and/or stamping to the concrete patio. Another option is constructing the deck out of sustainable “green” composite materials such as, wood, rice hulls or recycled plastic. These are not only eco friendly but also long lasting and low maintenance. Make the transition from inside to outside seamless with French doors.
Lighting and Décor
The lighting and décor of your outdoor space should be consistent with the indoor style but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Outdoor fixtures of metal or faux-finish can add high end style without breaking the bank. Outdoor lighting kits are also available at a fair price if you are interested in getting creative. Don’t forget to keep the bugs away! Metal torches and outdoor fire pits can provide relief from mosquitoes and enhance the look of your yard. Patio furniture with cushions and pillows of bright colors and patterns can brighten up your space.
Consider your climate
Making your outdoor area reflect your region and climate is important because it should reflect your outdoor needs. For example, if you live in the southwest, adding an outdoor kitchen to your yard will not only add value but will get a lot of use due to the consistently warm temperature year-round. If you live in the Northeast, making a portion of your porch screened in or lined with windows will allow you to utilize the area during three seasons instead of one.
These improvements discussed not only perk up your outdoor living space, they may increase your home’s value. With summer in full swing, now it the best time to tackle any of the projects discussed. Get out there and get creative because the possibilities are endless!
If your home is in need of roofing, siding, windows or insulation, we can provide you with a FREE no obligation estimate if you call us at 1-800-975-6666.
Posted by Damien Cabral on Mon, Jun 14, 2010
Just when you think you think you have blogged about everything there is to blog about in home improvement, you stumble upon something else new and exciting. Today we 
discovered tree houses for adults. BlueForest, and award winning sustainable construction firm, has been building everything from tree houses for children to tree house hotels.
Thinking of building your next home in the forest canopy? Well you will want to make sure the host tree is healthy and mature. Ideal trees include Oak and Beech. Worried about the trees long-term health? No Need! BlueForest sends a site surveyor out before one nail is hit to be sure the site will remain healthy and sustainable. They make sure to leave adequate space for the tree to grow and move naturally in the future. No trees on your building site? This isn’t a problem either. BlueForest can build your home entirely on stilts and incorporate small trees and shrubs into the design.
Don’t want your entire house to be above ground? Perhaps you could consider only raising your pool house. Instead of building a deck, create a treetop dinner house for those cool summer nights and family get-togethers. Be sure to check out the amazing pictures below.
Treetop Dinning
Castle in the Trees
Castle in the Trees Inside
Adult Tree House
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Posted by Damien Cabral on Fri, Jun 11, 2010
Chances are you haven't had a chance to tour our entire website yet so we figured we would highlight some of the great resources we provide at no charge.
#1 Home Improvement Tax Credits Explained- Home Improvement Tax Credits are complicated! That is why Moonworks created an 11-page article walking you through (and decoding) the fine print, product by product, with: Home Improvement Tax Credits Explained.
#2 The New Lead Laws: What You Need to Know- New lead laws, what new lead laws? Exactly! Many homeowners do not know that new home lead laws took effect on April 22 , 2010. Moonworks has put together this guide to condense the large amount of information into a short, easy to read document, to help keep you and your family safe and up-to-date: The New Lead Laws: What You Need to Know.
#3 Residential Solar Technology Made Simple - Talk of renewable energy is everywhere you turn - the news, the web, and even by the water cooler at work. At Moonworks, we know the details and sheer number of different renewable energy technologies can be difficult to grasp. That is why we put together an article to explain it all: Residential Solar Technology Made Simple.
Bonus: Be sure to check out our Home Improvement Photo Gallery for inspirational ideas for your own home.
Posted by Damien Cabral on Wed, Jun 09, 2010
Today's article is dedicated to very cool inventions that can be used around your home. If this post receives a healthy amount of comments, we will make this a regular series.
Cool Home Gadget #1: 360 Degree Rotating Power Outlets
Honestly, how cool are these? We have all been there. You have a cumbersome plug to some device and you hate to plug it in because it covers both wall sockets. Well Smarthome has the solution. The online store carries wall power outlets with 2-4 swiveling power plugs. Now you can plug in your cell phone and your Glade air freshener with no worries!
Cool Home Gadget #2: Java-Log Firelogs®
Did you know that coffee grounds have more energy than cordwood when combusted? Me neither! Java-Log Firelogs inventor, Rod Sprules, has turned this fun factoid into a useful green product. The Java-Log utilizes coffee grounds, that would otherwise be discarded by local coffee houses and divertes 12 million pounds of coffee grounds from landfills per year. They are available in both 2 and 3 hour burn times and emit 78% less carbon monoxide than traditional wood.
Cool Home Gadget #3: Retractable Clothes Line
If you're like me, sometimes you get yelled at for hanging your wet bathing suit or drip-dry laundry on the shower rod (dripping the excess water onto the tile floor.) The question at hand is where else can you hang your laundry if you don't have a permanent clothesline outside? Well the Hideaway Clothesline provides a solution to this ever-pondered question. The product provides an 8-foot retractable clothesline that can be fastened to just about any surface; including your bathroom, laundry room, garage or camper. You can keep the line extended permanently or retract it and reclaim your space once your cloths are dry.
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