Green Real Estate Appraiser

California becomes first state requiring all new homes be built with solar

Posted on May 10, 2018 | Leave a comment

s expected, the California Energy Commission (CEC) passed a first-in-the nation rule Wednesday, mandating all new homes constructed in the state be equipped with solar panels.

“This is a landmark vote today,” said David Hochschild, one of CEC’s five commissioners who unanimously approved the measure that was part of a revision to California’s Building Efficiency Standards, which are updated every three years.

The rule will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020, and does not need to be approved by the Legislature or the California Public Utilities Commission.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems will be installed on every house that receives a building permit, as well as condominiums and apartments up to three stories high. Homes that are shaded by trees or taller buildings, as well as houses with roofs too small to accommodate a PV system, will be eligible for exceptions or alternatives to the mandate.

The updated building code also includes stricter efficiency standards on lighting, ventilation, windows, walls and attics for non-residential as well as residential structures.

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Tips to keep your house cool the natural way

Posted on May 10, 2018 | Leave a comment

1. Create shade
Keep the heat at bay by creating shading around the house, especially around west- and north-facing windows. Removable shades, such as the one pictured, mean that for those in temperate climates, you have the flexibility to remove the shade in winter.

Or, for the same purpose – sun in winter, block-out in summer – plant deciduous vines on pergolas and create cool zones around the house. This will reduce the heat inside the home on hot summer days, but when the leaves drop in winter, light and warmth will be allowed inside.

2. Improve your eaves
Ensure your eaves are the right size and angled to keep the high summer sun at bay and allow winter sun through.

3. Let it in/shut it out
Learn to control temperatures by simply knowing when to open up your house for maximum air flow. On hot summer days, get into the habit of shutting up during the day – all doors, blinds, curtains – and then opening everything up in the evening to vent the house with evening breezes.

Best IKEA products according to interior designers

Posted on May 3, 2018 | Leave a comment

From your first apartment to your dream home, there’s one decor brand that makes its way into every interior along the way: IKEA. The Swedish giant has perfected the art of fashion and function with its minimalistic collection that walks a fine line between classic and on trend.

lamp

IKEA Ranarp work lamp

“Brass is everywhere these days, but I love it most when it’s mixed with other metals. As lighting is often considered the ‘jewellery in a room’, this piece strikes the perfect balance: It has pizzazz but isn’t too blingy, and the finish is contemporary but still elegant. This lamp would be perfect in a home office that doubles as a guest bedroom. It does double-duty as the perfect task light but is still chic enough to impress visitors.” — Lindsay Pennington, founder of Lindsay Pennington.

Disclaimer: for information and entertainment purposes only

California becomes first state requiring all new homes be built with solar

Tips to keep your house cool the natural way

Best IKEA products according to interior designers

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