Are You Confused? - The Province, Sunday September 4th

September 6, 2011

Over the last few weeks there have been many interruptions in the home renovation industry. Some of these are going to put a damper on things that should be done around the home now when the benefits in doing so are looking us right in the face.

First, as you may or may not be aware the provincial and federal grants for home energy upgrades are back. I have read articles in media papers and magazines written by different personalities and folks I have to say that when I read some of the advertisements today I get confused. Why you ask? My answer is because I am aware that the projection of potential savings from the grants on energy saving upgrades are being overstated with reference to the items being advertised.

One of the most important items today if and when you decide to do any energy upgrades to your home is to talk to a qualified energy advisor about an energy audit. This audit has to be done in order to qualify for the grants. That way you know if you will qualify or not?

Now this is where the fur on the back of my neck starts to rise as I am also aware after talking to many of my committed followers that the whole upgrade deal is not always addressed towards “Your Home as a System.” For example lets talk about windows for a moment; are you aware that properly installed windows will change your home and “How it Works as a System”. The reason as you will always hear me say is that if you’re doing windows you also have to address items such as draft proofing, exhaust ventilation (bathroom & kitchen fans), insulation, weather stripping etc. It is not just a matter of removing windows and installing new ones. When you have your energy evaluation audit you may find it confusing to read as to what to do now. Folks that the reason for asking what should I the homeowner do now? That initiates the “House as a System” professional to explain where to start. Draft proofing, Insulation, Windows, Doors, Heating Systems and so on.

It should be noted that the ecoENERGY Retrofit for Homes Program (Federal) and LiveSmart BC Efficiency Incentive Program (Provincial) are both set to expire March 31st, 2012, or once their respective funds have been allocated.

I am sure you are all aware that I chose to hang up my weekend live Home Discovery Radio Talk Show broadcasts. This was a very difficult decision for me to make and my reasoning after almost 30 years was family first. Monday to Friday gives me lots of time to communicate through newspaper, electronic media and the good old fashioned telephone to help you with your home improvement information.

The other major interruption that came our way this week is the reversal of the HST and how it will affect home renovations. That answer is going to have to wait until next weeks editorial but you can be assured I have a concern here!

More to come next week. This article was published in The Province newspaper, Sunday September 4th.