Posted by Damien Cabral on Fri, Aug 28, 2009
Well the United States has started to go green, but we are just starting to scratch the surface. However, the Empire State Building is going green and soon. Recently, the
Wall Street Journal reported that
Johnson Controls Inc., a company that provides products to optimize energy use, has been awarded a contract to help one of the nation’s most recognizable landmarks to go green.
Johnson will refurbish the building’s windows to keep out the summer heat and reduce winter heat loss. I don’t know the specifics, but my guess is they are going to apply a coating on the inside and outside of the window and utilize the original glass. Usually these coatings are made up of a metal oxide and Low-E or low emissivity. The metal oxide reduces water spotting and the Low-E reflects the suns rays away from the building in the summer and keeps heat in during the winter.
In all, the Empire State building will spend $20 million in energy-efficiency upgrades; hopefully cutting the building’s energy use by 38% a year! One of the main drivers pushing the greening of our federal and commercial buildings is the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s stimulus program. The act has slotted $4.5 billion to transform federal facilities into greener buildings.
Why does all of this matter? Aside from saving energy across the federal and commercial sector, the greening of icons builds awareness. Projects like these spearhead new thinking about America’s energy consumption and future direction. Additionally, it builds awareness with residential consumers about new ene
rgy efficient technologies that can be used in homes like yours and mine. Moonworks has embraced the green movement and offers Low-E4 glass with our Renewal by Andersen windows, Solaris and Cool Colors roofing shingles that reflect the sun’s rays to save energy on cooling costs, and Solar solutions with our Repower Home Solar Energy systems! The greening of America is rolling, be sure to jump on early while the government will pay for part of the cost!
Posted by Caitlyn Colombi on Tue, Aug 25, 2009
When it comes to vinyl siding, there are many different things that a consumer looks to consider. Siding comes in so many colors and styles that it may cause a headache to those unaware of everything! At Moonworks, we're trying to make the process as easy as possible for you, so we've created a guide to smooth the process along.
Choosing your Siding
The thickness of the vinyl is the main key to its durability and cost. The thicker that the vinyl is, the longer it lasts, the better it withstands damage, and the more stable it is. Of course, the thicker the vinyl is, the more the vinyl will cost. Another important decision is the color. When choosing, make sure that you choose a color that will compliment your home and you will be able to enjoy for years to come, not just because it is trendy in the moment.
Choosing an Installer
When it comes to installers, a history of quality work is ALWAYS the best promise of quality. As a consumer, look for an experienced installer who isn't afraid to show you other works that they have done in the past. When properly installed, vinyl has a generally loose appearance. Certain signs of work that has been done poorly include bulges, warps and separations in the siding, sags in vinyl soffit and ripples in aluminum fascia. Be careful about your choice of siding brand. Not all vinyl siding brands are the same and many lower priced choices include other materials in their making. Siding that is not one hundred percent vinyl will be prone to cracking, breaking and peeling.
Other Considerations
There are some other things to take into consideration as well when making the big purchase. One factor to possibly look into is types of warranties available. Various manufacturers offer different options, so make sure you are completely happy and comfortable with the warranty from the brand you choose. Vinyl siding is especially easy to maintain. There is no need to ever paint the siding and the only regular maintenance vinyl siding needs is to be spray washed once or twice a year!
Overall, vinyl siding is a great investment to your home! Although it may cost a little more than you anticipate up front, the fact is that over time, you will have less to worry about! No need to worry about painting shingles and repairing wood on your home - instead just a quick power wash and your home looks brand new. Consider residing your home today, maybe even with Moonworks!
Posted by Caitlyn Colombi on Wed, Aug 19, 2009
Image provided by ABC Australia's Bob Watson.
Renewable energy is energy generated from natural resources, like sunlight, wind, and rain, which are naturally replenished. With global warming and different oil crises through the years, different sources of energy are becoming more and more important, so naturally (no pun intended) we are turning to sources that are abundant to help!
Over the past decade or so, Australia has been researching and implementing different renewable energy sources to try and help cut the carbon pollution. This week, the government has proposed a new plan to produce 20 percent of energy from renewable sources by 2020, unlocking about $22 billion USD in projects. The renewable target works by forcing electricity companies to buy a portion of their power source from a renewable one! The law will also be responsible for the creation of about 28,000 jobs in industries such as wind and solar power. The carbon reduction plan would see Australia reduce greenhouse gases by between as much as 15 percent from 2000 levels in the next decade.
As of today, August 19th, Australia's main political parties developed an agreement and passed the plan to produce 20 percent of the energy from renewable sources. This plan is more than twice the current level! Currently, 8 percent of the continent's electricity comes from renewable sources, such as hydroelectric generators.
So what are you waiting for? Look at how much good renewable energy sources are going to do for Australia - imagine the amount of good it could do for your home! Solar thermal energy systems are always an option, and luckily for you, Moonworks can help with our Repower Systems! Check them out today.
Posted by Caitlyn Colombi on Thu, Aug 13, 2009
Did you know that the average home uses significantly more energy and is responsible for more carbon emissions than the average automobile? Windows play a large role in the home, so you can only imagine that choosing replacement windows is a big deal. But do you really know what to look for when picking the right windows? I know that I hadn't the slightest idea, but after researching, all breezes are blowing towards
Renewal by Andersen!
Because heating and cooling costs are on the rise, if your windows are outdated, your money could be being wasted on a daily basis! If your old windows are drafty and outdated, consider replacement windows. Not only will you add to the value of your home, you're saving money on these heating and cooling costs, AND your house is going to look better!
Although there are many styles and types to consider, and they all have their own special attributes, there are advantages and disadvantages to every type of replacement window. Replacement windows are a major investment in your home, so take the time to consider everything.
Important things to consider when choosing windows are the framing material, glass type, and a proper installation. When it comes to frames, you have to consider things such as thermal conductivity and thermal expansion. While aluminum is the highest conductor of heat, vinyl expands greatly.
Glass is also extremely important. One of the first things to consider is the U-Factor, which measures the amount of heat lost. The lower the number, the less heat loss through the window! When comparing windows, a lower U-Factor means better insulating quality. The range is usually from 0.20, most energy efficient, to 1.20, least energy efficient. You also want to take into consideration how well a product reduces heat gain, and the amount of light that is transmitted.
Lastly, a window must fit well in the opening to provide long-term performance and energy efficiency. This is where the installation comes in! Improper installation can easily occur in instances where an installer uses the wrong sealant or doesn't insulate between the window and rough opening. Rough handling during the transportation or installation can also compromise the seal of the glass to the frame. Installation is extremely important when it comes to a window's performance!
Renewal by Andersen makes it easy when choosing replacement windows. First of all, they meet and even exceed the requirements determined by ENERGY STAR and Green Seal. Homeowners may also have the opportunity to receive a tax credit of up to $1,500 for energy efficient windows purchased in 2009 and 2010! With a certified staff and warranties to protect your windows, what better time than now to make an appointment!
Posted by Damien Cabral on Tue, Aug 11, 2009
I was driving to play a quick round of golf with my father and brother last week when I noticed something very different on I-95 –
a gigantic wind turbine! New England Tech has recently installed a large white wind turbine on their Warwick, RI headquarters. The turbine as well as the installation of a Solar PV system will allow NEIT to spearhead the training in the green collar job arena. Additionally, it will allow the campus to produce the majority of it’s own energy.
Moonworks and our sister company,
Repower Home, is very anxious for these new grads to hit the ground running. We are pushing forward with several of our energy savings and renewable energy solutions (including
windows,
doors, and
solar energy) and need new grads to continue to bring these solutions to local homes. It is very exciting to have a visual example of Rhode Island building these skill sets locally. Renewable energy in Rhode Island is here and growing at a rapid pace and we are excited to be a part of the process.
For more information on the wind turbine check out the article on the
Providence Journal. And for more information on renewable energy be sure to check out
Repower Home.
Posted by Damien Cabral on Mon, Aug 03, 2009
Sliding doors were never front of mind until I became a homeowner in Rhode Island earlier this year. When I lived in my apartment, we had a sliding glass door to our deck that always got stuck when it was half way open. I never gave it thought – probably because I didn’t own it.
Now I am a proud owner of a home and the home’s sliding door. Don’t get me wrong – this door isn’t the worst door ever, but I do have some gripes. The glass part of the door is very heavy and doesn’t glide smooth. Additionally, every time I close the screen, it bounces back open – opening up the possibility that my cat Isabelle can execute her plan of escape. Finally, it isn’t the prettiest thing ever and the lock is stubborn.
Given I purchased my home earlier this year, I am a little short on cash. Even taking this into consideration, I am now seriously considering replacing the unit. What was the tipping point you ask? I was at a BBQ in Cranston, Rhode Island yesterday and opened a sliding glass door that opened so smooth it felt like it was floating across the rail. After experiencing this moment of sliding nirvana, I decided that it was worthwhile investing in this home improvement because it is a part of my home that I utilize EVERY DAY!
I am not telling you that you should replace your sliding glass door tomorrow but would urge you to take your time when planning your next purchase. Features you should pay close attention to when shopping for a sliding glass door include:
- Energy Efficiency (You could be eligible for a tax credit!)
- Weight
- Glide
- Lock Hardware
- Appearance (Screen and Door)
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