It seemed to arrive a little late this year – no thanks to an overly optimistic groundhog – but spring has finally sprung. That means summer and its hazy days are just around the corner. But before you plan that first barbecue, consider getting your home hot-weather ready. Whether it’s a major upgrade or minor [...]
Archive for the ‘Energy-Smart’ Category
How to get your house ready for summer
Saturday, May 11th, 2013Good spring projects
Wednesday, April 3rd, 2013It’s a glorious time of year: Spring means fresh air through open windows, birds singing, plenty of sunshine – and the perfect season to make your home more beautiful and functional than ever. Proper planning – starting before you pack away your parkas for the season – is key to a good spring home transformation, [...]
Preventing Ice Damming on Your Roof
Thursday, January 10th, 2013Winter snows may be pretty and serene, but they bring with them a not-so-lovely side effect: ice. While shoveling and salting may work for your driveway and walkways, your roof is at risk for ice dams, which result in damage that may have you wishing for a year-round warmer climate. Still, a little prevention not [...]
Using renewable energy to offset your heating bills
Monday, December 3rd, 2012Whether your gifts are all wrapped and neatly stacked under the tree or you’ll be running on some late-night shopping sprees, holiday merriment hangs heavy in the air – although wallets are usually somewhat lighter. Hold on to the seasonal cheer – and some hard-earned dollars – all year long by taking advantage of renewable [...]
Preparing your home for winter
Monday, October 1st, 2012Sandal and swim-suit season seems like only yesterday, but Old Man Winter’s right around the corner. You can procrastinate over digging out that fleece-lined parka and your fuzzy mittens, but, take it from the experts at Malcarne Contracting: No matter how difficult it is to say so long to summer, don’t put off getting your [...]
Net-Zero Energy Homes
Monday, September 3rd, 2012You know the feeling: You’ve had out-of-town family visiting for two weeks, which means your dishwasher, showers and clothes dryer have been running practically nonstop. Sure, the grocery bill is through the roof, but it’s those energy prices that truly make you want to head for a vacation of your own. Now imagine the same [...]
What is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM)?
Friday, August 10th, 2012When you’re a homeowner, going energy efficient takes more than just finding a talented builder – and when you’re trying to help your business’ bottom line through energy efficiency, the story’s no different. At Malcarne Contracting, the team’s expertise extend far beyond the residential, including commercial and industrial buildings as well. It also boasts owner [...]
What are the pros and cons of solar electric and solar thermal?
Tuesday, July 3rd, 2012It’s easy to take for granted the ability to flick on the lights or have a hot bath in the evening. But open up your bills at the end of the month, and you may need a cold shower to revive yourself from the sticker shock. That’s where the sun comes in: With solar electric [...]
Happy National Weatherization Day!
Friday, January 14th, 2011Did you know there was such a day as National Weatherization day? Well, there is! The last weekend in October marked its celebration in which the nation highlighted the energy saving work going on around the country. Thanks to the Recovery Act passed in 2009, low-income communities around America are being positively impacted by an [...]
Know Your Boiler
Saturday, October 30th, 2010Have you hugged your boiler today? Well, that may be taking things a bit far, but are you at least familiar with your boiler? Do you know where it is located in your house? Let’s go even further than that – do you even know what a boiler is? Don’t be ashamed if you can’t [...]