And Now, a Word from our Sponsors....

We've shown a lot of pictures already, but some of you are probably wondering..."What is all that stuff?" And "Why are you using that?"

Well, you probably know by now that this is an Earthcraft house, which means its built a little different. We are trying to conserve materials, create a healthly indoor environment, save energy, save water, and use materials that are friendly to the environment. How do we do that?

Well, see the following for info.
Info on the Earthcraft House Program
http://www.southface.org/web/earthcraft_house/ech_main/ech_index.htm
This will tell you some of the practices and theories behind EarthCraft.

Info on US Green Building Council's LEED for Homes Program
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=147
A National program for rating "green" homes.

Info on Energy Star
http://www.energystar.gov/
Lots of great info! We have Energy Star windows, HVAC, doors, some ceiling fans, some light fixtures, some bathroom fans, and all appliances

Some of our materials and products.
Our Exterior Siding: Hardie Siding
http://www.jameshardie.com/homeowner/prodhome/default.php
Why?
Low maintenance
Not a wood or vinyl product
Doesn't rot or grow mold
Long life span

Windows: Pella Impervia
http://www.pellaimpervia.com/
Why?
Low maintenance
Energy Star (low-e glass)
Fiberglass (not wood or vinyl product)
Doesn't transfer heat or cold through frame

Doors: Therma-Tru
http://www.thermatru.com/
Why?
Energy Star (low-e glass and insulated door)
Fiberglass construction

Roofing: Ryerson Metal Roofing Panels in Cool Color Silver
http://www.ryerson.com/products-services/roof.asp#
Why?
Long Life Span
Recyclable Material
Cool Roofing Color

More info to come as we fill in the house with stuff!

Pella Progress

We have some more windows and doors now. This is a very good thing. After visiting today, we have all but a couple doors and windows in place, so that the whole first floor is "secure". And since the garage doors are not in yet, or at least they can't install them yet due to the order they must do things, they just put up some temporary plywood to close off the openings. We now have a housekey (a big moment unto itself) to get access to the inside.

Other tidbits:

We went to pick out kitchen cabinets this weekend.

They are starting on siding tomorrow.

We had a delay on our roofing so the roof will not go on for another 2-3 weeks.

Pictures to tide you over are below.