Archive for the ‘Solutions’ Category
Thursday, February 25th, 2010
The FHA 203 (k) loan allows the buyer to finance both purchase and cost of repairs/upgrades through a single mortgage. You need an experienced mortgage planner: Steve Bote, sbote@americanstreet.com knows the intricacies of the FHA 203(k) loan and ensures a smooth and enjoyable home buying experience.
http://www.americanstreetmortgage.com
click on FHA 203K- left side
Posted in Construction and contractors, Furnishings, Real estate and property values, Solutions, Wall treatments | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 16th, 2010
“Is this mold (in the basement of the house we are looking at) a big deal?” Short answer: need more data. The only way to tell for sure what’s going on is to cut at least 4 good-sized holes in the drywall (on all 4 sides of the house and any other indicated locations) to determine the source of the wetness problem. …Without further information, NO DEAL!
Posted in Construction and contractors, Solutions | No Comments »
Friday, February 5th, 2010

They don’t have a website with lots of flash but the photos will show you what they’re capable of.
For building address numbers in entry transoms or sidelights- photo shows insulated transom painted with numerals on back side, before installation. Original glass behind is protected and the gold paint is, too.
http://www.chicagoldsigns.com/index.html
Posted in Custom for less, Old house repairs or treatments, Solutions | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010
In answer to Facebook question: Tankless water heaters ARE more complicated to install- for one thing, the exhaust may need to be stainless steel. This article sums up the pros and cons:
http://www.finehomebuilding.com/how-to/articles/choosing-water-heaters-tank-and-tankless-options.aspx
Posted in Green construction or finishes, Solutions | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a new Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule (RRP) last April. Under the rule,beginning in April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. And yes, I have a GREAT contractor who is certified!
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
Posted in Construction and contractors, Old house repairs or treatments, Solutions | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Universal Design- for aging in place. No matter what your age, review these principles before any renovation. If you are a boomer, you need them NOW (for your parents) and for the future. Video gives overview; principles are listed.
http://www.aipathome.com/universaldesign/index.html#universal_design_principles
Posted in ADA or accessibility; aging-in-place, Solutions | No Comments »
Thursday, January 7th, 2010
Video about Sam Marts and Dina Petrakis working together, providing “experience and resources you can’t get anywhere else”.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BkwItH4uG4
Posted in Architecture and Design, Construction and contractors, Old house repairs or treatments, Solutions | No Comments »
Sunday, December 6th, 2009
ASID(Interior Designers) and Green Building Council’s ReGreen Guidelines.Lots of links, sketches, and insights for planning a GREEN remodel.
regreenprogram.org
Posted in Bathroom design, appliances, and fixtures, Construction and contractors, Green construction or finishes, Housekeeping and maintenance, Kitchen design, appliances, and fixtures, Kitchen design, appliances, and fixtures, Old house repairs or treatments, Real estate and property values, Solutions | No Comments »