http://mitchco.ehclients.com/index.php/site/index/ en mitchelltom@live.com Copyright 2011 2011-10-18T14:08:08+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/how_new_homes_earn_the_energy_star/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/how_new_homes_earn_the_energy_star/#When:14:08:08Z A step by step process as to how builders obtain the ENERGY STAR on new home construction projects. Much of the information are excerpts from the ENERGY STAR website which you can find the links to at the bottom of the page. To earn the Energy Star, a home must meet strict guidelines set out by the U.S. EPA. In meeting these guidelines, a home will become 20-30% more efficient than standard homes built to code.  A series of energy efficient improvements that could be included, but not limited to, in the home design are: Effective Insulation Systems - Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort. High Performance Windows - Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings. Tight Construction and Ducts - Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment - In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home. ENERGY STAR Qualified Lighting and Appliances - ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines To ensure that the home meets the guidelines, a home energy rater works closely with the builder throughout the project. This third-party verification system is a requirement to earn the rating, as the Rater conducts on-site diagnostic testing to document that the home is eligible. Step 1: Builder Chooses to Partner with ENERGY STAR                 In doing so the builder enters a partnership agreement with the EPA and ENERGY STAR. In order to keep this agreement a builder must ere3ct at least one ENERGY STAR rated home every 12 months. As well, the builder independently selects a Home Energy Rater to work with and qualify the homes. Step 2: Builder and Rater Select Appropriate Energy-Efficient Home Features                 Some Raters have different approaches to the selection process of the home features. After the builder submits the architectural plans to the Rater, some Raters follow the EPA prescriptive package of features, where as some develop a customized approach using specialized modeling software. Step 3: Building of the Home and Verification of Features and Performance                 The Rater performs a number of inspections and diagnostic tests throughout the building process. This is done so to ensure proper installation and assess overall energy performance of each selected feature. Step 4: Home Qualifies as ENERGY STAR and is Issued ENERGY STAR label                 A final inspection is completed in order to determine that all requirements have been met. If so the Rater issues an ENERGY STAR label which is placed on the circuit breaker of the house. This label provides the home owner with documentation that the home is qualified. With 20-30% higher energy efficiency in your home you will receive real benefits. Your monthly costs are lowered due to increased efficiency and you will lower your carbon footprint.  Also the government has provided a rebate program for energy efficient intiatives. As well, with tight construction you allow for improved quality of living including overall comfort and air quality throughout the house. Excerpts from: ENERGY STAR website http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.nh_features http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.nh_verification_process Remodeling, Custom Homes, Energy Efficiency, Green Kitchen, Home Maintenance, Home Performance 2011-10-18T14:08:08+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_preofessionals_-_part_6_-_kitchen_remodeling/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_preofessionals_-_part_6_-_kitchen_remodeling/#When:14:09:30Z Heres a few creative ideas from our professionals to help you in your kitchen remodeling project. Kitchens are the most remodeled room in the house. Typically the kitchen area is also the center of activity, the conference room of the home, the dining area, the absolute hub.  The kitchen is the most viewed area in your home and for that matter the greatest investment in a remodeling project.  People remodel for numerous reasons including design, functionality, resale value, entertaining, and style. Whatever your reason may be, here are a few ideas that may contribute to your ideal kitchen remodeling project. When addressing the kitchen from a complete remodel or custom home build, design the kitchen facing east to catch the morning sun. But remember to use UV protection windows to protect wood flooring and furniture from fading. Appliances – A few brands really rise above the rest. Stick to Energy Star Rated Appliances for efficiency Wolf Dual Fuel Pro Range- 48” dual oven and range top with 6 burners and 48” Hood above. Miele Dishwasher Generation 5000- Built in with front finish matching cabinet finish on kitchen island. Miele Refrigerator Generation 5000– with integrated cabinet panels Miele Coffee and Espresso Maker– Built into the cabinets. Warming Drawer – Keeps your food warm and serves as a slow cooker.  Walk-in Pantry Closet Countertops – There are many viable options for countertops. The composition, grain, and color are all important aspects of the design of your kitchen. Granite, Quarts, and Concrete are among the most popular types. Flooring – Two types of flooring are used in kitchen remodels, Wood and tile. After asking our professionals a stained wide quarter sawn oak floor is a nice option. Meet that with a 12x12 tile between the island and work zone and you have a beautiful combination. Kitchen Island – are a perfect addition to a kitchen. The island can house the dishwasher as well as a recommended prep sink with a separate filtered cold water tap. As we move away from the kitchen remember, functionality and accessibility are key aspects of a home. A well designed home will create open space. For storage and accessibility, a butler’s pantry separating kitchen and dining room serves as extra cabinet space and serving buffer zone. With the kitchen being the focal point of the home, it is also nice for it to have a separate entrance. Entering the home through a mudroom with cabinetry and coat hooks is one way at achieving this feature. This being the last of a 6 part blog series we would like to thank those who contributed their ideas for the project.  Enjoy what is to come and stay tuned for our upcoming E-Books! Remodeling, Countertops, Energy Efficiency, Green Kitchen, Design 2011-10-17T14:09:30+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_5_-_a_unique_design/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_5_-_a_unique_design/#When:16:49:50Z A few thoughts on how to make your home match your personality to better fit your needs. In our ideal home we create rooms that effectively meet or exceed our needs, wants, and wishes. This can be anything included in your design and use of space, down to the electronics used and furniture chosen.  Our Professionals have offered insight on a few special rooms, some already touched upon in our previous blog, and some unique ideas you wont find in your everyday home design.   Arts and Crafts Rooms – Whether it is for your self or to be used as a kid’s playroom. Assigning one room for these activities effectively eliminates some unwanted household cleaning. Home Theater – Usually found in more elaborate home designs. A projection screen tv, state of the art surround sound, and stadium seating can make for a nice family movie night. Home Office – With noise cancelling wallboard this is a reliable room for a work environment, decorated to meet your needs. Home gym – Work out in privacy or with a friend, this room will pay for itself not having to pay gym memberships.    Breakfast Room – typically connected to the kitchen, breakfast rooms serve as highly used dining areas. When not used, this room can serve as a decorative addition to your home. Walk-in Closets -  Referring to the picture, not just your everyday closet. This is a room connected to both master bedroom and master bathroom housing cabinets for clothing, shoes, and other apparel.     When designing your custom home or remodel project, think of what your need and would like in your home.  Designing a specific room for yourself will make your home unique to you.    Remodeling, Custom Homes, Home Maintenance, Home Performance, Design 2011-10-13T16:49:50+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_pros_-_part_4_-_entertainment_space_a.k.a._man_town/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_pros_-_part_4_-_entertainment_space_a.k.a._man_town/#When:19:16:27Z Man caves are the perfect place to escape and relax after a stressful day. Relax in your finished basement with everything you need.  We call it Man Town. Your very own Bat Cave in your basement with all the toys and gadgets you want.  This is an ideal place to escape after a long day of work.  Throwing a party or watching Sunday night football, there is no better place than sitting in front of a large screen TV with excessive entertainment packages while playing pool and grabbing a drink from your wet bar. In this section we’ll go over what our project managers, our Pros, have to say about their ideal Man Cave. An unfinished basement can be a daunting chore.  Dust settles and mold can grow given any moisture problems.  However, once finished will be an absolute pleasure. Ideally, your basement is carpeted with a good moisture and mold resistant pad. Inside the carpeted areas you’ll find couches and a recliner focusing on an entertainment system with the latest electronics. iPod Bridge – radio frequency broadcasting audio receiver. Hdmi ready television and receiver for music and movie streaming Universal remote – one control for all operations Bose High Quality Surround Sound Within reach of your comfortable seating area is a small kitchen with a standing bar. Beautiful stained finish, wood bar with rail. Adorned with decorative, possibly sport team focused, bar stools. Top of the bar stained with a deep catalyzed finish. The kitchen area should be complete with essentials : Fridge, microwave, sink, dishwasher Flooring – Tiled floor with a membrane that will prevent cracking in cement floor. A nice addition outside the kitchen area is a built-in wine cellar. Its important to house all your fine wines at the appropriate room temperature. Wine coolers are also available and these can be installed underneath a bar. Within the same space, a bathroom is a nice addition. Throw in a simple standing shower and a nice residential urinal and toilet and you’ll never have to leave your basement. Once the seating, dining, and bathroom accommodations are taken care of, accessories and decorations can be addressed.  With enough space, a pool table can be introduced to the Man Cave. If you’re a ping pong enthusiast, a top can be fashioned for the table.  As for decorations, your home sports team may be a nice theme using portraits and autographed posters. Outside of an entertaining area, you can include a home office space. Make sure to include a wireless router for internet use that can share throughout the house. Hardwood flooring is a nice addition here, using a floating engineered wood floor with a plywood substrate.   Also a Home Fitness Room is a nice addition for those trying to stay in shape after those long Sunday afternoons. It is preferable to have a walk-out basement as well to catch some fresh air and get out into the back yard. Remodeling, Design 2011-10-03T19:16:27+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_pros_-_part_3_-_interior_design_concepts/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_pros_-_part_3_-_interior_design_concepts/#When:18:41:42Z Craftsmanship is a top priority in any home remodeling project. It complements the quality of a product and can make even inexpensive choices look good, last longer, and require less maintenance. Good design is a key element in any successful remodeling or building project. Your success begins with a vision and a team of talented professionals who can craft that vision into a set of plans, build according to the plans, and deliver an award winning product that will stand the test of time. Below are several ideas of what excites us in a home. Big kitchen and Family room with an open floor plan – Most families spend the majority of their time in this area of the home and are asking for spacious, but cozy gathering spaces. An open plan is great for entertaining as well. A fireplace in the family room, or preferably a hearth built into a partition that delineates the kitchen and family room. Architectural details - To add warmth and character to a larger area we recommend using architectural details such as crown molding, wainscoting, and bead board. A high, wood- beamed custom art ceiling would serve as a classic showpiece and give your home uniqueness. An interesting, well-crafted staircase- The main staircase is a central feature, and can be one of the most beautiful aspects of the home. Ideally the stairs should not creak and the newel post, regardless of style, should be sturdy. The moldings should flow continuously and meet smoothly with the finished carpentry above and below. Hard wood flooring on first floor, up staircase and second floor hallway- This is a common approach although some prefer hardwood in the bedrooms as well. Area rugs on the 1st floor and runners on the stairs and hallway add warmth, provide safety from slipping, and protect the floor’s finish. One of our experts’ top choice would be to use stained, wide, quarter- sawn oak with rugged look 12 x 12 tile between the island and work zone in the kitchen.                     Well constructed custom cabinets -There are some very cleverly designed cabinets available today to serve the storage needs of any room in your home, including the kitchen,  bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry room, mudroom, home office, family room and basement. Cabinets are built in several different styles and can be painted or stained to your liking. Hardware selections are extensive as well, and allow you to match the cabinet style to the rest of your home. For instance, one of our experts loves the Greenfield Frameless line in some type of exotic engineered veneer – very crisp clean lines – minimal moldings – very European style/modern. Built-in bookcases – bookcases are a classic addition to any home and are useful for, not only holding books, but for displaying family photos and other accessories. Pantry in kitchen – Pantries are back in style and with good reason. They offer organization to your kitchen, creating a much more efficient use of space. Also, cabinets can be expensive and pantries help to reduce the amount of cabinet space necessary. Pantries often evoke warm childhood memories and more of our clients are requesting them. Mudroom – Essential to maintaining cleanliness, and providing space for shoes, coats, hats, backpacks, etc., mudrooms are one of the most desirable aspects of the modern home. A well designed mudroom provides that proverbial “place for everything.” Baths - including a Master Suite with spa style bathroom. Most new homes today are built with a half-bath on the first floor and two full baths upstairs – one of which is the master bath. A popular trend is to have the Master suite on the first floor with bedroom, bathroom, and walk-in closet. Finished basements often include an extra bathroom, either full or half depending on the needs of the occupants. Laundry Room – A separate, quiet laundry area with plenty of space for drying and hanging hand washables. Having the laundry area located on the second floor is very desirable to most because of the convenience.       2011-09-26T18:41:42+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_2_-_exterior_curb_appeal/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_2_-_exterior_curb_appeal/#When:18:49:00Z Recreating the exterior of your home? See what our Professionals have to say. The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior. Proper design and craftsmanship is your top prioroty. In creating value for your home, curb appeal is essential in that your entryway to your home creates a first impression on any guest. You can attack your home’s curb appeal from many directions. For example, creating a lush landscape will draw attention to the front of your home. Adding a farmers porch and new front door will also support the attraction. After asking our pros, we were able to outline what they thought would create a beautiful exterior… Our pros recommend a beautiful Welcoming Entrance.  The most popular idea was for a farmers porch as well as fully covered entrances.                        Farmers Porch or Covered Entrance – This serves to add character to the exterior of your home and is also practical with most modern designs. Low maintenance materials create lasting value. Fiberon Composite decking is one known source.  Their horizon decking material provides a stunning look and is made from 74% recycled material. The material consists of plastic milk jugs, water bottles, etc. and is recycled from local landfills.  Our professionals specifically requested a 5/4 Meranti wood, natural finish deck with solid Meranti posts, and white composite railing post caps for contrast.  The use of Azek trim completes the picture. Azek can and should be used for all exterior trims. Beautiful front doors are one of the first things people notice in assessing the value of your home. All windows and doors are important in creating curb appeal and adding to the sustainability of your home. The use of low-e glass cuts your UV light exposure down to 17% protecting furniture and wood floors on the interior from fading. Anderson Casement windows are a nice addition to your home offering unobstructed views and opening fully to provide a guided breeze into your home. Adding furniture to your front porch makes it look inviting as a welcoming veranda.  Our experts also agree that at least a 2-car garage is necessary, 2 ½ preferably. A desire for organization and low maintenance living makes the extra storage space desirable. Closet storage concepts can be used for high organization, keeping that clutter out… The long term energy efficiency of the overall building shell is equally important. Our pros offer two specific ideas for siding the home using sustainable products including cement siding, growing in popularity, and a traditional vinyl siding.  Cedar clap boards and some stonework for the front siding, with a high quality heavy gauge insulated vinyl product for the balance of the house - Vinyl with the look of stained clapboard and front claps stained to match. HardiePlank Lap Siding clapboards consist of a combination of wood and cement. They provide protective services relative to the climate you are in, as well as an extended warranty.  Forty year or better roof shingles.  Solar panels are another way to reduce energy consumption. There is ongoing research being done to make the upfront cost more affordable, which will in turn create a quicker return on your investment.                Your back yard is your oasis. For your own personal enjoyment there are many things to consider depending on your own style and taste.  Screened in porch including space for an eating area within for dining out during the summer. A BBQ pit can be built into your patio overlooking your pool. Other stone work can also be crafted including pool side bars, fire pits, etc. Andersen French Patio Doors with craftsman style grid on glass and an overhang roof with nice support brackets is an example of a beautiful back door entrance. Landscaping and walk-ways can complete the picture of an ideal setting for your home. Remodeling, Custom Homes, Energy Efficiency, Home Maintenance, Design 2011-09-17T18:49:00+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_1_-_energy_efficiency/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_part_1_-_energy_efficiency/#When:16:56:19Z Looking to save money and reduce your carbon footprint? This is what our experts have to say… The up -front costs of some energy efficient building methods are higher than the standard. However, the long term savings, financially as well as environmentally, are exponential. The following is a list of the most effective ways to save money and decrease your environmental footprint. Use Spray Foam Insulation, such as Icynene everywhere, including the attic to condition that space for the mechanicals. A superior ventilation system is also important in regards to interior energy efficiency and health. Fantech for all the bathroom fans and a separate Fantech w/lint trap for the clothes dryer.  Proper ventilation is vital for healthy indoor air.Fresh Air Exchangers provide a constant source of fresh, filtered air to flow through your home. Remote blower system in the attic for the kitchen hood system that would provide at least 1100 cfm.   LED Light Bulbs (light-emitting diodes) are an easy way to save money and create high interior energy efficiency. You can now replace 75-100 watt incandescent bulbs with equivalent light output and only consume 3-13 watts. The most notable advantages of LED light bulbs over conventional light bulbs are Led light bulbs last upwards of 50,000 hours, so if you buy a LED light bulb today and leave it on for 8 hours a day you will not have to change it for over 10 years. A 7 watt LED home light bulb (60 watt direct replacement) will cost $2.00 a year to run left on for 8 hours a day vs. an incandescent which will cost $20.00 and you will have to change it 2-3 times every year. LED light bulbs are shatterproof, run cool to the touch, and contain no mercury or hazardous substances like CFL’s so the applications are endless and more importantly safer for your home or business.       A high efficiency boiler will increase the interior energy efficiency of your home. ENERGY STAR qualified boilershave annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of 85% or greater. AFUE is the measure of heating equipment efficiency. They achieve greater efficiency     with features, including : electronic ignition, which eliminates the need to have the pilot light burning all the time. new combustion technologies that extract more heat from the same amount of fuel. sealed combustion that uses outside air to fuel the burner, reducing drafts and improving safety.  Making sure you have the right size boiler is essential when you’re buying a new model. If it's too small it might not meet your needs; too big and it will be over-costly, inefficient, more expensive to run, and be even more damaging to the environment.      An on-demand tankless water heater will save you money while providing a continuous source of hot water. As well, choosing the highest SEER air conditioning system available, and purchasing Energy Star Rated Appliances is a no-brainer when you consider the cost savings as well as the overall value they add to your home. 2011-09-12T16:56:19+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_introduction/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/ask_the_professionals_-_introduction/#When:16:32:45Z Following is a series of blogs designed to introduce new ideas for your home. We asked our professional staff for their insight and this is what we came up with. Do you ever dream of or imagine the perfect home for you and your family? One of the first steps in our design process is to ask our clients for a list of their needs, wants, and wishes for their home. It is a proven discovery technique for obtaining information that contributes to a successful, working relationship and best results for our clients.       We thought it would be interesting to ask our team, who spend their working hours improving other people’s homes and living spaces, to share some of their ideas of what they consider important in a home. We asked them the following question:  “Imagine you’re building a home today for yourself and your family. What are your must haves/must dos?” You’ll see what they came up with in a 6 part blog series beginning with the exterior called, “Ask The Pros”.   2011-09-07T16:32:45+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/creative_mudroom_remodeling/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/creative_mudroom_remodeling/#When:14:06:34Z If your family’s active lifestyle too often translates to a messy house you are not alone. The old maxim, “a place for everything and everything in its place,” is more relevant today than ever. A well-designed mudroom can provide a creative solution to help decrease the clutter from belongings that we carry on or with us daily, adding convenience and order to our lives. It’s fun to watch the contents of our mudroom change from one season to the next.  If your family’s active lifestyle too often translates to a messy house you are not alone. The old maxim, “a place for everything and everything in its place,” is more relevant today than ever. A well-designed mudroom can provide a creative solution to help decrease the clutter from belongings that we carry on or with us daily, adding convenience and order to our lives. It’s fun to watch the contents of our mudroom change from one season to the next. Summer, with its easy living, brings strewn flip flops and croqs, colorful tote bags packed with beach or pool essentials, baseball caps, bike helmets, and sneakers. Ours also sports sidewalk chalk, squirt guns, jump ropes, golf shoes and various other toys and sporting equipment. Along comes fall and with it the back packs that, let’s face it, the kids are going to drop in the most accessible place possible, sweatshirts and light jackets, stylish boots, clogs and shoes. Though I’d like to, I can’t forgot the raincoats and umbrellas. Winter adds the heaviest load; out come the winter coats, jackets and snow pants, hats, mittens, scarves and perhaps warm cozy Uggs. Then with the blessed arrival of spring, which seems to come later with each passing year, we’re back to sweatshirts and light jackets, sneakers and flip flops, hats and base ball caps, and should I mention, the mud. Mudroom design is often overlooked when houses are built but so essential to keeping all that “stuff” out of the main part of the home.  Whether building a new home or remodeling an existing one, it would be prudent to include a cleverly designed concept for your most used entrance. Have fun with it! Give it some character, as it will most likely be the first room you and others experience upon entering your home. In place of a closet, which takes up a lot of space and is less likely to be used, consider some of the following ideas that are popular and proven to work well. A bench to sit on while removing shoes and boots with storage underneath. Shelves and cubbies, which offer best use of space, and which children can easily access and are large enough for baskets. Securely anchored coat hooks. Drawers and cabinets to store out of season items, etc. Flooring that will sustain the heavy traffic, mud, sand and moisture. A door or possibly, French doors, to define the space. Remodeling, Custom Homes, Design 2011-02-06T14:06:34+00:00 http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/kitchen_design_trends_part_6_-_lighting/ http://www.mitchcogroup.com/blog/kitchen_design_trends_part_6_-_lighting/#When:13:37:49Z Lighting accounts for 5 to 10 percent of total electricity used in U.S. homes. The best way to reduce your power usage is to locate workspaces near windows or install more windows or skylights in order to take advantage of daylight. Lighting accounts for 5 to 10 percent of total electricity used in U.S. homes. The best way to reduce your power usage is to locate workspaces near windows or install more windows or skylights in order to take advantage of daylight. Tubular Skylights or Light Tubes capture natural sunlight from the rooftop and redirect it down a reflective tube into interior spaces inside your home. The tubing will fit between rafters and can be installed easily with little or no structural modification. At the ceiling level, an attractive diffuser spreads the light evenly throughout the room. Natural Lighting tubes bring warmth to difficult to light and often forgotten rooms and turn them into extraordinary spaces filled with pure, natural light. If you do need extra lighting in the kitchen, then install individually controlled task lighting, such as under cabinet lighting or pendants over an island that will only illuminate the space that you need and now the whole room. Lastly, compact fluorescent bulbs should be installed because they use less energy for the same amount of light. Green Kitchen, Home Performance 2011-01-04T13:37:49+00:00