by Shelter Associates | Apr 3, 2012 | Building 101
Q: What is an energy audit? A: Home energy audits have become popular as homeowners seek ways to lower their home energy bills. A typical audit, performed by a trained and accredited local professional for a few hundred dollars, will test the energy efficiency of your...
by Shelter Associates | Mar 27, 2012 | Building 101
Q: What is a cool roof? A: A cool roof is defined as a roof that either reflects the sun’s heat away from the roof or is designed to ventilate a narrow airspace under the roof finish to keep it cool. Either way, the result lowers the temperature of the...
by Shelter Associates | Mar 20, 2012 | Building 101
Q: What is an “insulated” window? A: Newer windows are often referred to as “insulated” because of technology that retards, blocks, or slows the transfer of air through the unit. Most people are familiar with fiberglass or other types of...
by Shelter Associates | Feb 21, 2012 | Building 101
Q: What is “solid surface” material for countertops? A: Solid surface refers to a breed of countertop and surfacing finish that offers a denser, thicker, and color-through material alternative to ceramic tile, laminate, and stone (such as granite). Made...
by Shelter Associates | Feb 7, 2012 | Building 101
Q: What is C&D waste? A: 'C&D' waste refers to debris created from the construction and demolition processes of a building project. In fact, it represents a large percentage of the overall waste stream created in this country. There are several...
by Shelter Associates | Feb 6, 2012 | Building 101
Q: Whom should I call when there's a problem with a kitchen appliance? A: Depending on the status and terms of your builder's warranty, you have several options. Even if the warranty has expired, you may still contact your builder to inquire about maintenance,...