Historically, wood window frames were universally used but advances in technology have created different alternatives that offer many benefits. Fiberglass windows are becoming more popular as modern improvements have made them stronger and more durable. Developed in the 1980’s to meet the demands of lower maintenance and better performance, fiberglass windows are gaining popularity. Studies show that market share of fiberglass windows doubled in 2005 and in 2009 the market share increased from 1.6% to 3.1%. The share is anticipated to increase to 4.3% in 2010 as global sustainable building spurs ever more demand for products with low life cycle costs. As more mainstream window and door manufacturers introduce fiberglass frame pieces for new construction and replacements, fiberglass products have become more available in a range of energy efficient options; including low-e gas filled insulated glass units in many different styles from awning to double hung custom profiles.
Finally the US Government Helps Remodelers and Homeowners
This is not the entire fix like 2030.org and Mazria’s plan for 4.5 million jobs but it is a start. Apparently it will start with a home energy score program rolled out in ten states. The closest to us will be Eagle county Colorado. We will keep a close eye on this. Then a FHA backed home improvement PowerSaver program. These will be accompanied by a list of skills and guidelines for professionals in doing this kind of work. There is also a SBA program for entrepreneurs looking to get into this field. This is endorsed by the NAHB but they will be tracking it closely to make sure it does not have adverse affects on existing housing stocks and their appraisals. Thanks Joe Biden, Obama, Udall, Bingaman, and Lujan and everyone else that worked on this. Let’s get green retrofitting! For all the information see here.
Win a Solar System for your Home!
Wonderful opportunity to win a $16,000 Photovoltaic Solar System from US Green Building Council of New Mexico. Tickets are $25 or five for only $100. The perfect chance to get off the grid and support green building in New Mexico.
Green Building Summit and Expo
Please join us this weekend for the Green Building Summit and Expo in downtown Santa Fe at the Community Convention Center.
The Summit is for building professionals, appraisers, architects designers and finaciers.
Classes run Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am-4pm. There should be CEU’s available.
The Expo is Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm and is free and open to the public.
to register or for more information please go to
http://greenbuildingsummit.com/
Hope to see you all there
NM Gas Company Energy Efficiency Rebates
Check out the NM Gas Company’s Website for rebates ranging from showerheads to new furnaces. This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to save money and lower green house gas emissions. Do a home energy retrofit project before winter, save energy, and get money back directly from NM Gas Co. We can help you by finding a reliable professional.
http://www.nmgco.com/Energy_Efficiency.aspx
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Letter to our Leaders Job Growth and Green Retrofits
Dear Mayor Coss, Santa Fe City Council, and President Obama,
Thank you for this opportunity to be heard on how to promote job growth and our local economy during these challenging times. As business people in Santa Fe we believe the best way to stimulate job growth is through the building industry. It is (or was) the third largest industry in Santa Fe behind tourism and state government before this recession. Now our work has all but vanished and our unemployment is enormous. Continue reading