2 Reasons Why Frost is Forming in My Attic?
I got a call from a past inspection client this morning. He has a valid concern: frost forming and water dripping from his decking – inside his attic. The frost forming in his attic is basic building science. 1) Super cold temps (frigid air)  are present in your attic and mixing with 2) Warm moist air […]
Appraisal Institute Releases Helpful Addendum, Green Home Clarification
A few weeks ago I shared that “Greening the MLS” can help disclose the addition of energy efficient elements in residential construction and how that might affect the liabilities of the MLS system. Last week the Appraisal Institute introduced the Residential Green & Energy Efficiency Addendum, Version 2.0. Laura Stukel, an efficiency “insider,” is developing the Real Estate Transaction […]
Free Market, Liability, and Greening an MLS – Sorta
A few years ago the MS Dev Authority helped promote green building in Mississippi. They co-sponsored a state-wide Green  Building Contest. Licensed contractors joined and promoted their brand and I helped provide support as an NAHB Green Building Verifier. Through Jo Usry’s leadership, the MLS – Multiple Listing Service of Jackson now includes sections (called […]
Humidifiers and Sun Screen
These two products work well but only in certain conditions. Lathering up with sun screen on a cloudy day makes about as much sense as living in the south and purchasing a humidifier. Dr Allison Bailes says, “if you really want to solve the problem, seal the air leaks.” He goes on to say: Ideally, […]
Recirculating Range Hoods — As Effective As Recirculating Toilets
Go to your kitchen, look above your stove or cooktop and open the cabinet door. If you don’t see a round pipe installed inside the cabinet, you most likely have a recirculating vent hood. They’re cheap, easy to install and you may as well be sitting at a smokey camp fire waiting for the wind […]