Gradison Building Corp. is currently working on an upscale whole-house renovation project that incorporates several energy-conserving products and practices as well as sustainable materials.

Through smart design and construction, our approach to this extensive remodeling project will result in a healthy home for our client and will conserve natural resources. Not to mention lower utility bills and increased home value - both significant benefits to the homeowner.

The following is a partial list of green elements integrated into the project:

  • Installation of Low-E glass windows with a U-factor of .28
  • Older furnaces replaced with a geothermal heating and cooling system
  • Desuperheater hot water heater (an energy saving device within the heat pump that recycles waste heat from the home to heat household water)
  • ManiBloc PEX plumbing system (shorter runs, quieter and more efficient)
  • Insulation - 5″ cellulose and ½ inch foam spray (on 2 x 6 frame)
  • Fiber cement siding
  • Metal roof
  • Utilizing many local vendors and materials
  • Natural Bamboo flooring throughout main level
  • Direct vent sealed fireplaces (replaced older masonry fireplaces)
  • Main structure was salvaged (less in landfill)
  • Sea wall installed to prevent erosion

Most of the existing materials removed from the home including interior doors, windows, light fixtures, cabinets and some appliances were donated to BAGI for their annual garage sale held at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

Watch for updates on this exciting whole-house renovation.

Contact us today to discuss your green ideas or to schedule a consultation and remodeling assessment. We look forward to helping you with your next project.

Did you know during 2009 and 2010, you can claim a 30% tax credit on the first $5,000 you spend on energy-efficient home improvements? That’s a $1,500 credit, not a deduction, because it reduces your tax bill dollar for dollar.

Geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and small wind energy systems are not subject to the cap, therefore tax credit will be given for 30% of the total cost of these products.

The new break is better than the former home improvement credit, which was effective during 2006 and 2007. The old plan only gave a 10% payback and the maximum credit you could claim was $500 over your lifetime. So if you used up your old $500 credit, you can start fresh and claim the full $1,500.

The stimulus will apply to specific items such as:

• upgrading attic insulation
• installing a storm door
• adding or replacing energy-saving windows
• metal roof
• water heater
• new furnace

So if you are considering replacing your furnace with a geothermal heat pump or installing a tankless water heater contact us. We would love to help you become more energy-efficient and obtain a tax credit at the same time.

For more specific information on the Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency please visit the following link: http://www.energystar.gov/taxcredits