[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GtklTVKMFY&w=560&h=315] “We started these EcoRanchos back in August 2011 and we are making steady progress since then. Here’s an update we posted on YouTube today. We are placing regular updates on our webpage on the building progress and hopefully we have the structures under roof by mid April 2012!” Best regards. Walter A. Hutterli … Read more
“Weatherization facts: – Low income families will realize greater comfort and additional disposable income, saving over $400 in reduced energy costs (at current prices) the first year. This equates to a 23% reduction in primary heating and cooling fuel costs. – Taken together every $1 invested in the weatherization program returns $2.72 in energy and … Read more
Dropping Home Values: One More Reason to Build Your Own Sustainable Home As if you needed another reason to build and live sustainably… Okay, here’s another reason – dropping home values. Millions of people are getting badly burned on their home investments. This is another reminder to live within our means. Build and buy only … Read more
Coppiced wood has all sorts of practical uses for natural builders – sustainable fuel source, pole building, wattle and daub, pinning, braces, latilla ceilings and more. “Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management which takes advantage of the fact that many trees make new growth from the stump or roots if cut down. In … Read more
“I PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT! Global Warming Equals Increasing Fire Danger Build a Durable Fire resistant Structure Fire Resistant Roofing Fire Resistant Decking Maintain a Defensible Space II LESSONS FROM THE 1993 LAGUNA BEACH FIRE – WHAT SURVIVED? – Many if not most homes burned from the inside out (fire storm heat ignited interior curtains, etc) … Read more
Extra storage space always seems to come in handy. Built-in shelving helps organize and store your books and other belongings in a way that adds warmth and character to your home. Built-in shelving is a sign of a well-built home. Lower quality homes, in contrast, typically have bare walls with few or no built-in amenities. … Read more