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19 reasons why we are the
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They have the local expertise and dedication to service that leads to good mortgages and happy customers.
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James Austin Mary Anne Bradford Felicia Holden Dawn Johnson Tammy King Barbara Knapp

508-247-1779 508-247-2198 508-247-2141 508-247-2285 508-687-9236 508-247-2160
WAREHAM, ROCHESTER MORTGAGE LOAN HARWICH DENNIS MARTHA’S VINEYARD WELLFLEET, EASTHAM,
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Patricia Lotane Bob Marchese Barbara Matteson Susan “Sam” McCaffrey Beth Ann Meehan Cathy O’Neill Diane Pansire

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65CELEBRATING Home Builders & Remodelers
Association of Cape Cod
YEARS!

1950 2015

www.capecodbuilders.org Letter to our Readers

OFFICERS THANK YOU FOR PICKING UP A COPY OF OUR 2015 FALL/WINTER ISSUE
President OF AT HOME ON CAPE COD.
Matthew Anderson
Anderson Framing & Remodeling We are proud to provide the industry professional as well as the home-
1st Vice President/Treasurer owner with interesting and helpful information.
Peter Kimball
AP Kimball Construction We are also proud that our organization, the Home Builders & Remod-
2nd Vice President/Secretary elers Association of Cape Cod, is celebrating our 65th anniversary this year.
Paul Diggin
Advanced Communication We were founded in 1950 by a small group of builders with the intent
Technologies Inc. to share information and best practices with each other. This was 20 years be-
Immediate Past President fore the state building code was created and it was important to our founding
Mike Duffany members to work within their own unwritten code to ensure high standards
M. Duffany Builders and consistent procedures to build quality safe homes.
Executive Officer
Christine Duren Our members, now over 270 companies, which represent more than
3,500 full-time year-round employees, are still building to a consistently high
BOARD OF DIRECTORS standard of quality, efficiency and safety.
YEAR DENOTES TERM EXPIRATION
Bill Almeida ’17 What many people don’t realize is that through the support of our
Falmouth Lumber members, our association works to protect the homeowner through vigorous
Brian Harding ‘16 advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. When we meet with local of-
Andersen Windows ficials, state and national legislators & regulators…we are looking out not only
Stephen Klug ‘16 for our members but our members are looking out for you. In one of the most
Fine Building & Finish highly regulated industries, we are your watchdogs.
Benjamin LaMora ‘16
Lineal Construction Inc. Our membership also feels very strongly about giving back, we do this
Trevor Meyer ‘16 both as individuals, and as an association. We just completed our 2nd Builders
Meyer and Sons, Inc. Blitz where our members donate time, employees, materials, expertise and
Tony Shepley ’16 money to build one home for one family in one week. We also have fun raising
Shepley Wood Products funds for the homeless through our Bowling for Beds bowling tournament,
Jack Stevenson ‘18 and we share the fun of building with children at our annual children’s LEGO
Mid-Cape Home Centers home building challenge.
Chuck Tuttle ‘17
REEF Cape Cod’s Home Builder Mentoring and educating youth is not only fun, but also an important
piece of our mission. We now have two student chapters, one at Upper Cape
ON CAPE CODHOMEOWNERʼS RESOURCE GUIDE Cod Technical High School, and Mashpee High School. We are job creators,
PUBLISHER and we want to create and keep year-round well-paying jobs here, and one way
we do that is through our Residential Construction Career Day…our inaugural
Christine Duren event was held on October 15th at the Cape Cod Fairgrounds. Over 225 local
[email protected] junior & senior high school students met and interacted with our members to
EDITOR learn the process of home-building and the many career opportunities avail-
Glenn Ritt able within and surrounding our industry.
[email protected]
ART DIRECTOR We hope you enjoy this tenth issue of At Home on Cape Cod, it is full
Kristen vonHentschel of expert tips, current trends and product information.
KVH Graphic Design
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR We look forward to another 65 years of building community!
Lauren Diggin
PRINTING & MAILING Matt Anderson
Spire President, Home Builders &
www.spire.net Remodelers Association of Cape Cod

4 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 Scan here
to visit us online



TABLE OF CONTENTS

36FEATURE STORY 14SPECIAL REPORT

36 How are we doing? 14 Building with solar

The state of homebuilding Happy is the house that the sun
on Cape Cod shines on
37 Workforce investment needed 15 How solar PV systems work
17 New Solar Technology
Committing two years and six figures 17 Solar permit numbers
to staff training – from managers to
carpenters Comparing the numbers Capewide and
by town, 2004-2015
LETTER TO OUR READERS
PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY
4 65 years and going strong
43 New products and services
HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING
BUILDING COMMUNITY
7 Building your dream home
What kind of builder should you 44 Blitz Build
choose? Building professionals to construct
Habitat for Humanity home in a week
8 Selecting the right home builder
A checklist 46 Making the dream of affordable
home ownership possible on
9 The pitfalls of being your own Cape Cod
builder
47 Thank you to all who made the
12 Remodel your dream home Build Blitz possible
12 Add green to your home – and
pocketbook TIP SHEET
21 How to speak remodeling
23 Weight your options before 48 Exterior home painting tips
DIY remodeling 50 Ceiling fans
51 Is your home safe for all ages?
TRENDS 52 Electrical safety tips
54 Design with Pets in Mind
27 Baths 53 Pop Quiz
What’s in – what’s out
How well do you know your
28 Kitchens homeowner basics?
What’s cooking in kitchen design

30 Home offices
More a necessity than a luxury

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS HOMEOWNERS RESOURCE GUIDE
ASSOCIATION OF CAPE COD
55 Member benefits
34 Construction Career Day 57 Home Builders’
Local high school students excited
about career opportunities resource directory
62 Ad Index
VIEWPOINT

35 Chris’ corner
Meet Herbie

COVER PHOTO: ROE OSBORN PHOTOGRAPHY

6 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

DRBEUAILDMINGHYOOURME PHOTO COMPLIMENTS OF MCPHEE ASSOCIATES OF CAPE COD

WHAT KIND OF HOME BUILDER SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

When you start thinking about SEMI-CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS multiple homes in the neighborhood that
building a brand-new home, it Semi-custom home builders build look similar to each other. 
can sometimes be confusing
knowing what kind of home builder you homes based on existing blueprints, but A range of decoration and feature
need to hire in order to get the home that the home buyer is typically able to change options including flooring, appliances,
best fits your family’s needs and budget. the plans prior to construction to conform cabinets, countertops and trim is also
Here’s a brief explanation of the types of to personal preferences. Once construc- often offered. These options may or may
home builders, and some of the differ- tion has begun, however, there is less flex- not increase the base home price, but they
ences in working with each. ibility to make changes.   enable the buyer to pick items that they
desire. However, the builder may or may
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS The home can be built on land the not offer a selection of options that con-
Custom homes are generally builder or the buyer owns. Because the form exactly to what the buyer wants.  
home is not being designed from scratch,
single-family homes that are built to the it often costs less and is completed in a Production homes are built in
buyer’s specifications on land the buyer faster time-frame than a full custom home. a range of price points, so production
owns. A custom home is one-of-a-kind, homes can be found in entry level, move
and won’t look like any other home in the PRODUCTION HOME BUILDERS up and luxury price ranges. The home is
neighborhood.   Production home builders build generally built in a fast timeframe, since
the builder has already obtained the
The buyer works closely with a large volume of homes, generally more necessary permits for the plans. However,
the builder and architect to design and than 25 and up to hundreds a year. The making alterations to structural elements,
construct a home with all the features and homes are built in developments, on land such as the foundation walls, will require
elements that they want. Because of this the builder owns. Many different types of re-engineering the plans and resubmit-
personalization, custom homes are gener- homes are available, including single-fami- ting them for new permits, which could
ally higher-end and take longer to build. ly, condominiums and town houses. lengthen the completion date.  
Alterations can be made at any point in
the building process, which could cause Production builders use standard For more information on types of builders visit
the total cost to build the home to in- plans, but often offer a variety of plan capecodbuilders.org.
crease dramatically. Custom home builders choices and options, such as different floor
typically build 25 or fewer homes a year.   plans and elevations. There will likely be AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 7

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

control Advanced Communication Technologies
systems
home Rockland Centerville A CHECKLIST FOR
theater
multi- 781.741.5959 508.563.2626 SELECTING THE RIGHT
room HOME BUILDER
audio www.actces.com
lighting This checklist can help you select a home builder or
control home remodeler to work on or build your home:
surveillance
systems CONTACT YOUR local home builders’ association for
the names of member builders and remodelers: www.
The Lower Cape’s Best-Kept Secret capecodbuilders.org. You can also ask family, friends or
for Architecture & Construction coworkers for recommendations.

Serving Brewster ~ Provincetown & Southern Maine MAKE SURE the builder or home remodeler has a permanent
508-349-9100 x44 • dpicc.com business location and a good reputation with local banks and
suppliers.

FIND OUT how long they have been in the building
business. It usually takes three to five years to establish a
financially sound business. You want to make sure they will
be around after the construction is complete to service any
warranties.

CHECK OUT the company’s rating and if there have been
any complaints filed with your local Better Business Bureau:
www.bbb.org.

MAKE SURE the builder/remodeler has sufficient workers
compensation and general liability insurance. If not, you
may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your
premises.

ASK THE BUILDER/REMODELER to provide you with names
of previous customers. If they won’t, beware. If they do, ask
the customers if they would hire the builder/remodeler again.

ASK IF you can see their work, both completed and in
progress. Check for quality of workmanship and materials.

DO YOU FEEL you can easily communicate with the builder/
remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with
them throughout the construction process and afterward as
you live in your new home.

MAKE SURE the builder/remodeler provides you with a
complete and clearly written contract. The contract will
benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get
and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner
manual as well.

BE CAUTIOUS of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/
remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as
the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.
Keep in mind that less expensive does not necessarily mean
better!

Find more helpful advice on home building and remodeling at
www.capecodbuilders.org

8 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

The pitfalls of EAST DENNIS, MA We welcome the
508.385.2704 opportunity to meet
BEING and discuss your
YOUR OWN McPheeAssociAtesinc.coM building needs.
BUILDER –
Visit
They go beyond the McPheeAssociatesInc.com
building or call 508.385.2704
to speak with the McPhees.
Homeownership is the foundation
of the American Dream, and in i
today’s do-it-yourself culture where
how-to advice for just about anything can Proud recipient of the
be found on the internet, many people Chatham Historical Society
think they can save a lot of money by
building their own home. But your home Preservation Award &
is likely the single largest investment you three 2014 BRICC Awards
will make in your lifetime, and not hiring
a professional home builder could be a DESIGN BUILD REMODEL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REAL ESTATE
costly mistake for many reasons – finan-
cial, emotional, and physical. WE’RE NOT JUST BUILDERS.
WE’RE BUILDING PARTNERS.
Getting financing is an important
consideration. As a self-contractor, lenders AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 9
have strict guidelines and limits on how
much money they will give you, and they
will require that you provide house plans,
specifications and an itemized list of docu-
mented costs and bids beforehand. 

Even if you feel that you have
enough cash to do the job, it is wise to
get a loan to cover material or labor cost
increases, upgrades or material overruns.
Many mortgage companies will not lend
money to cover unanticipated costs on
a home when construction has already
begun.

There is a huge amount of book-
keeping if you act as your own general
contractor. The IRS requires that you
send a 1099 form at the end of the year
to anyone you hired to work on your
home- subcontractors – who earned above
a certain amount. You’ll have to be on site
to document delivery slips, check for inac-
curate billing and track material returns in
order to stay on budget.

Professional home builders are ex-

PITFALLS continued on page 10

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

PITFALLS continued from page 9

CERAMIC u PORCELAIN u NATURAL STONE u GLASS u METAL perts at the logistics and timing of build-
Best Tile is New England’s ultimate destination for tile and ing a home. It is an exact science to make
stone, serving Architects, Designers, and Homeowners. sure permits are applied for, materials are
ordered and delivered, subcontractors are
hired, utility deposits are paid, and inspec-
tions are scheduled at the right time. Even
if you’re very organized, it is a process
where many things can go wrong and a
delay could cost you thousands of dollars
and a lot of stress.

Building your own home is a risky
proposition from a legal standpoint, as
well. Home builders carry Builder’s Risk,
General Liability and Workman’s Com-
pensation insurance on their building
projects. As a self-contractor, you will have
to assume most, if not all, of the same
liabilities. You may want to consult with
an attorney regarding potential liability is-
sues, and with an insurance agent concern-
ing appropriate insurance coverage.

Home builders have staff to take
care of all the details of building a home,
and established relationships with other
professionals to complete the job, which is
why they can build a home in a relatively
quick timeframe. To build an average 1,500
sq. ft. home, you need to be prepared to
spend at least 35 hours per week for at least
five or six months, and most people don’t
have jobs with that kind of flexibility. You
will also need the time to determine and
order the materials, evaluate bids, and hire
and schedule qualified, licensed, insured
and/or certified subcontractors.

Finally, if you sell the home you’ve
built, you may be responsible for any
defects that are discovered afterwards.
As the home’s builder, you or your estate
will be responsible for claims brought by
subsequent owners of the home.

These are just a few of the things
you need to think about before building
your own home. By hiring a professional
home builder, you will get quality of work-
manship, building code compliance and an
outstanding level of knowledge.

BestTile.com DEDHAM 25 McNeil Way (781) 461-0406 To find a home builder, visit capecodbuilders.
PLYMOUTH 10 Pilgrim Hill Road (508) 732-8911 org.

10 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

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508-477-3132 508-548-6868
falmouthlumber.com 508-862-6200
botellolumber.com shepleywood.com
THE WOOD LUMBER COMPANY
HINCKLEY HOME CENTER MARINE HOME CENTER
Falmouth MA East Harwich MA • 508-432-8014 Nantucket, MA
508-548-3154 508-228-0900
woodlumbercompany.com hinckleyhomecenter.com
VINEYARD HOME CENTER marinehomecenter.com
Vineyard Haven MA • 508-693-3227

vineyardhomecenter.com

MS1506_0511_At Home on Cape Cod_Fall.indd 1 6/30/15 2:14 PM

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

Tree and Lawn Professionals YOURdreamREMODEL HOME
Since 1880.
ADD GREEN TO YOUR
· Tree & Shrub Pruning · Removal HOME – AND YOUR
· Insect & Disease Management POCKETBOOK – BY
· Lawn Care Programs · Deep-Root Fertilization REMODELING
· MA Certified Arborists · TCIA Accredited
The rapid growth of green building means
800-439-2662 that new homeowners can take advantage of the
lower operating and maintenance costs that come
Cape Cod, South Shore and South Coast with these energy- and resource-efficient homes.
Free Consultations · www.davey.com
But for the 120 million existing homes in the United States,
The Davey Tree experT Company remodeling is the only way for homeowners to incorporate green
practices. Here are some suggestions to increase their home’s
VINTAGE COLLECTION® efficiency, decrease costs and take advantage of the other benefits
YOUR DECK. that green offers.
YOUR MASTERPIECE.
1Install maximum insulation in the area to be remodeled.
AZEK Deck’s Vintage Collection is the next generation of capped cellular PVC Forty percent of the energy consumed in a typical house goes
decking. With its industry leading technology, the Vintage Collection sets a new to heating and cooling. Adding insulation is an easy way to
standard in aesthetics giving you a more realistic wood appearance than increase efficiency. Insulation is rated by its ability to resist heat
competing alternative decking products. With its rustic texture, rich colors and flow, commonly known as “R-value.” The higher the R-value, the
superior durability, the Vintage Collection is sure to bring anyone’s dream better its ability to resist heat flow. Adding insulation will help
outdoor living space to life. save energy costs, increase comfort by better controlling tem-
perature and improve indoor air quality by eliminating many gaps
CYPRESS DARK MAHOGANY through which dirt, dust, and other impurities can enter.
HICKORY
2Install high-efficiency windows instead of those that just
Deck | Porch | Rail | Trim | Moulding | Pavers AZEK. meet the energy code.
Ordinary window glass transmits ultraviolet heat rays from
the sun, which can increase your air conditioning bill dramatically.
ENERGY STAR windows can help control this effect. These
windows may have two or more panes of glass, warm-edge spacers
between the panes, improved framing materials and microscopi-
cally thin metal or metallic oxide layers deposited on windows to
reduce radiative heat flow.

3Seal all exterior penetrations in the area being remodeled.
You can reduce cold air drafts and heat loss by inspecting
your home from the inside and outside, then plugging cracks
or openings. Be sure to check the areas where window frames
meet the structure or siding of the house. Use caulking to seal
all small cracks on non-moving surfaces and weatherstripping on
windows, doors and other movable parts of the home.

12 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

4Purchase only ENERGY STAR-rated HHII--BBAAYY PPEENNDDAANNTTSS
appliances.
ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, YYOOUURR HHOOMMEE SSAAYYSS AA LLOOTT AABBOO UU TT YYOO UU ..
ranging from dishwashers and refrigera- WWEE’’RREE HHEERREE TTOO LLIISSTTEENN ..
tors to computers and televisions, meet
strict energy efficiency guidelines set by YYoouurrhhoommee iiss aa rreeflfleeccttiioonn ooff yyoouu.. FFeerrgguussoonn’’ss pprroodduucctt eexxppeerrttss
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency aarreehheerreettoo lliisstteenn ttoo eevveerryy ddeettaaiill ooff yyoouurr vviissiioonn,, aanndd wwee’’llll wwoorrkk
and the U.S. Department of Energy. Quali- aalloonnggssiiddeeyyoouu aanndd yyoouurr ddeessiiggnneerr,, bbuuiillddeerr oorr rreemmooddeelleerr ttoo bbrriinngg iitt
fied refrigerators, dishwashers and vent
fans incorporate advanced technologies ttoolliiffee..SScchheedduullee aa oonnee--oonn--oonnee ccoonnssuullttaattiioonn wwiitthh uuss ttooddaayy..
that use 10-50 percent less energy and FFEERRGGUUSSOONN..CCOOMM//SSHHOOWWRROOOOMMSS
water than standard models, more than MMaasshhppeeee
making up for the slightly higher costs of 110066 FFaallmmoouutthh RRooaadd
these products. ((550088)) 553399--88770044

5Install low-flow water plumbing ©©22001155FFeerrgguussoonnEEnntteerrpprriisseess,,IInncc..
fixtures.
In the average home, flushing AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 13
toilets accounts for some 30 percent of
water usage. By using low-flow plumbing
fixtures such as toilets, faucet aerators
and showerheads, you can save up to
25 percent of that water compared to
conventional fixtures while providing the
same utility.

6Upgrade to an ENERGY STAR-rated
or tankless water heater.
Tankless water heaters provide hot
water on demand at a preset temperature
rather than storing it. Replacing an elec-
tric water heater with a solar model can
reduce costs by up to 80 percent a year.
Over its 20-year lifespan a solar heater
will prevent more than 50 tons of carbon
dioxide emissions. A low-cost option is to
wrap insulation around your heater, which
can reduce standby heat losses by 25 to 45
percent.

7Purchase the highest efficiency
HVAC system you can afford.
Over a 10-year period, the average
home owner spends more than $10,000
for heating and cooling. Installing high
efficiency ENERGY STAR HVAC equip-
ment can reduce utility costs on aver-
age by 10 to 30 percent over minimum
efficiency equipment. It also can improve
home comfort with more heating and
cooling and a quieter operation, and often
features higher quality components that
result in longer equipment life.

For more information on green remodeling, visit
capecodbuilders.org.

SPECIAL REPORT – BUILDING WITH SOLAR

HAPPY IS THE HOUSE THAT THE

SUN SHINES ON

Solar panels seem Solar’s popularity is easy to under- both save you money and pay you money,”
to be popping up stand. Everyone wants lower energy costs, says Tim Sanborn of Cazeault Solar.
on roofs all over and the price of solar installations has Homeowners who buy their solar systems
Cape Cod. It may seem come down considerably, making it more can keep all of the incentives offered by
like the increase of solar attainable for homeowners. Solar energy the state and federal government, which
systems is a somewhat reduces the use of fossil fuels and doesn’t really helps offset the cost.
recent phenomenon, but add to the production of global green-
Massachusetts launched its house emissions, and the solar industry is Available incentives include tax
first incentive program for contributing to our local economy. credits, SRECs and low interest loans.
solar PV (photovoltaic) It’s also worth looking into whether any
in 2001. When homeowners want to install incentives are offered by manufacturers of
a solar system, the first decision they need solar products.
14 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 to make is whether to lease or own the
system. Massachusetts offers a tax credit
of the lesser of $1,000 or 15% of the total
Two local companies, and members cost of the PV system to homeowners who
of the Home Builders & Remodelers As- invest in a solar system. The federal govern-
sociation of Cape Cod, that install solar ment offers a tax credit of 30% of the cost
systems, Cazeault Solar of Osterville and of the retail price of the solar system.
E2 Solar of Dennis, both strongly advise
clients to own. “Solar is the only invest- These tax credits can be used dollar
ment you can make in your home that will for dollar against what’s owed, and the

SPECIAL REPORT – BUILDING WITH SOLAR

federal tax credit can be carried over to says Sanborn. He illustrates this using an HOW SOLAR PV
SYSTEMS WORK
the following year if it’s more than what average-sized solar system as an example.
A solar photovoltaic (solar PV)
is owed. An average system has 20 solar panels and system converts solar energy from the
sun’s rays into electricity. This is done
SRECs, or Solar Renewable Energy creates 6,000 kilowatt hours of electricity using solar panels that connect to a
Certificates, are part of a market-based per year. The investment cost to home- home’s electrical system and to the
incentive program from the Massachu- owners if the system is bought outright electrical grid.
setts Department of Energy Resources. is $21,500. The Massachusetts tax credit
Basically, they are incentives given to would be $1,000 and the federal tax credit A solar PV panel, or module,
owners of solar PV systems. Homeowners would be $6,450 (30% of the cost). For is an array of cells that contain
earn one SREC for every 1000 kilowatt- homeowner who owe that much in taxes, semiconductor materials that convert
hours (kWh) their solar system produces. they’re getting $7,450 back in tax credits. solar radiation into direct current (DC)
electricity. Solar systems also include
Homeowners can sell their SRECs for A solar system saves homeowners an an inverter, which converts the direct
current electricity into alternating
cash; the easiest way is to sign up with an average of $1,400 in the first year on their current (AC) electricity. AC power is
what’s used to deliver power to houses.
aggregator. Experienced solar installers electric bill, based on the average Eastern The inverter is usually located near
the electrical panel.
help homeowners with this process. Massachusetts electric bill, according to
RESIDENTIAL GRID CONNECTED PV SYSTEM
Homeowners can expect to get Sanborn. The homeowners will also get a
close to – and sometimes more than – the quarterly check from their aggregator for SOLAR
auction price for SRECs, which is $285 per the SRECs. Based on 6,000 kilowatt-hours, PANELS
SREC for 2015 and 2016 (the price starts that’s $1,710 annually. The tax credits, elec-
to lower a little each year after UTILITY
tric bill savings and SRECs have SERVICE

2016). SRECs are issued cut the price of the system HOME POWER/APPLIANCES

quarterly for ten years down to $10,890 in the Once a solar PV system is
connected to the grid, any “extra”
after homeowners “IF A SOLAR first year. electricity produced (i.e. not used by
sign up for the SYSTEM IS PRICED the homeowner) goes into the grid and
program. For years is credited to the homeowner’s electric-
2-5, the annual ity account. When the sun isn’t shining,
Mass Solar $1400 in electric or a home uses more electricity than
the solar system produces, the grid sup-
Loan is a pro- bill savings and plies the needed electricity.

gram that pro- CORRECTLY, IT WILL the SRECs add Solar systems produce the most
vides homeown- up to an ad- electricity during the summer months
when there are more hours of sunlight
ers with access PAY FOR ITSELF IN ditional $11,624. in each day. Conversely, much less
to low-interest The system has electricity is produced by solar systems
in the winter. Households generally use
loans to purchase more than paid less electricity during the spring and
fall, and this is the time when the most
and install solar FIVE YEARS.” for itself within credits are earned with the homeown-
electricity. Again, five years when the er’s electric company. Solar companies
look at a household’s electric usage over
experienced solar TIM SANBORN tax credits, electric the course of an entire year to deter-
installers will guide bill savings and SRECs mine how many solar panels are needed
to offset their annual usage.
homeowners through the are factored in.
If there’s a power outage, solar
Mass Solar Loan process and When Sanborn explains PV systems shut down and won’t
submit an application on their behalf. it that way, buying a solar system outright restart until power has been restored
to the grid. This is a safety precaution
A program called Solarize Mass is seems like an obvious choice. Sanborn and protects both the home and
utility workers.
available to Provincetown residents. The advises that the best way to finance a
AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 15
program’s goal is to increase the adoption solar system is with home equity. This is

of small-scale solar electricity through a the best scenario because the homeowner

competitive tiered pricing structure. As keeps all of the incentives and again, if

more home and business owners sign solar done correctly, the system has paid for

contracts, the savings increase for everyone. itself in five years.

“If a solar system is priced cor- If that’s not possible, many home-
rectly, it will pay for itself in five years,” owners finance through the solar company

SPECIAL REPORT – BUILDING WITH SOLAR

or a preferred sis. Homeowners are around $85. Burdge said his last electric
bill was $-197 and the bill before that was
lender. The locked into a long- $-320. When the electric bill shows cred-
its, they can either be saved for when bills
interest on the term contract, so are higher or they can be gifted to family
and friends.
loan will likely it’s important to
An app on his phone shows Burdge
be higher make sure the how much power the system generates
each day and provides a monthly recap.
than it solar rates are “What I’ve generated so far is the equiva-
lent of me planting more than 300 trees,”
would be us- competitive said Burdge.

ing a home’s with local retail Homeowners who are interested in
solar may wonder about the installation
equity, but electricity rates. process and how soon they’ll see a return
on their investment.
homeowners Michael
can still take The first step is to make sure the
advantage of Burdge of Mash- home is a candidate for solar. “Three
the incentives things are important for solar produc-
offered. Most N pee leases tion,” says Sanborn, “a home’s orienta-
solar companies 0° tion to the sun, the pitch of the roof and
will help homeown- NW NE solar panels limited shading. For solar to work, a house
ers through the loan 315° 45° needs to be oriented between 90 and 270
process. from compass degrees.”
BAD Sungev-
The next step is a consultation with
ity a solar company. E2 Solar and Cazeault So-
lar both look at a client’s electric usage over
W 270° E 90° and is a 12-13 month period. “We want to produce
what our client uses annually. We don’t
Jason Stoots of E2 Solar in happy want to oversize a system,” says Stoots.
Dennis also advises clients to own, “We also discuss future considerations. Will
not lease, so they can take advan- GOOD GREAT OK with their usage go up or down? Will the family
tage of the incentives. Stoots says the be building an addition, will teenagers en-
many people dip into their savings or SW S SE arrange- ter the picture, will they be empty nesters?”
225° 180° 135° ment. He
researched Stoots says they also discuss fuel
use a home equity line of credit. E2 So- shifting with many clients. A lot of homes
several on the outer cape are all electric, and
lar also offers a number of financing other clients want to move away from
companies oil. E2 Solar can help clients plan for the
options and helps clients with future and offer guidance on electric heat
and compared their pumps, changing boilers and solar hot
the process. water systems.
“WHAT I’VE quotes. Sungevity’s
For homeowners was the lowest The installation of solar panels takes
who decide to lease, two to four days. Once a system is installed,
there are two options. GENERATED SO FAR total cost at the it usually takes a few weeks to get up and
One is to lease a solar end of the lease running. Eversource needs to install a new
system from a leasing meter (that can spin backward!) and the
IS THE EQUIVALENT OF period and the solar company also installs a meter and/or
system was in- other type of monitoring system to show
how much power the system is generat-
company. These leases stalled without ing. Often, homeowners have an app or
dedicated web site they can use to monitor
are usually for 20 years, ME PLANTING MORE having to pay the productivity of the system.
and the leasing com- anything up
SOLAR Continued on page 19
pany receives all of the THAN 300 TREES.” front.

incentives because they Burdge

own the system. At the end MICHAEL BURDGE advises other

of the lease, homeowners can homeowners to shop

buy out the lease according to the around, because leasing

terms of the lease contract. “Generally, companies offer different deals

consumers save 20% of their electric bill throughout the year. “Pay close attention

with a lease,” says Sanborn. to the fine print, and ask what the total

A lease could result in a mechanic’s cost is at the end of the lease,” cautions
Burdge. “It’s important to look at the
lien on the property, warns Sanborn. If
price of the lease over the entire leasing
a homeowner moves before the end of
period, because it’s not always a fixed
the lease, it’s usually transferrable to the
next homeowner, but it’s important to ask monthly amount over the whole term of
the lease.”
questions about that process.

A third option is what’s called a The Burdge’s lease costs around
power purchase agreement, also known as $90 per month for a 9 kilowatt system.
free solar. This works much like a lease, His system was up and running in August
but without a buyout schedule. The home- of 2014 and the first time he had to pay
owner buys the electricity generated from an electric bill was February. The biggest
the solar system at a per-kilowatt-hour ba- electric bill he paid over the winter was

16 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

SPECIAL REPORT – BUILDING WITH SOLAR

160

158 NUMBER OF SOLAR BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED

140 152
144

BY TOWN, 2004 THROUGH JULY 2015
120

120 119

100 107

80 91 88
83 80

60 64 64

40 52

20 33

0 FALMOUTH 15 GRAND
BARNSTABLE TOTAL
WELLFLEET
HARWICH 1,370
BOURNE
BREWSTER
EASTHAM
YARMOUTH
ORLEANS
SANDWICH
CHATHAM
DENNIS
TRURO
MASHPEE
P-TOWN

450 385

CAPEWIDE, 2004 THROUGH JULY 2015
350

250 206 211 245
GRAND

150 124 TOTAL
70 87 1,370

50 0 2 5 9 26
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

NEW SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

Newer products on the market of- and energy-saving goals. ity than traditional solar panels, but they
fer alternatives to traditional solar panels. can be installed in places where traditional
These are great options for those who dis- In addition to generating electric- panels won’t fit.
like the look of traditional solar panels or ity, the shingles function as traditional
can’t fit enough panels on their roof due roofing shingles. They come with a 20 year GAF Solar has introduced a new
to tight spots, skylights, etc. warranty and can be installed with compo- product called DecoTech that the com-
sition asphalt shingles, laminated architec- pany calls a roof-integrated solar system.
Cazeault Solar of Osterville offers tural shingles, concrete and clay tile, cedar DecoTech is a low profile module that lies
two such solutions. Dow Powerhouse shake, polymer and traditional slate. directly on the roof deck. The modules are
solar shingles are actual roof shingles that very thin and are all black with no silver
generate solar power. They use thin-film The best time to install solar gridlines. DecoTech is installed directly on
technology and, like traditional solar pan- shingles is when a home is being built or the roof deck and leaves no exposed holes
els, are a custom-designed array based on when the roof is being replaced. drilled into shingles.
a home’s size and the homeowner’s budget
Solar shingles generate less electric-

AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 17

127 Airport Road, Hyannis
508.775.3075 | ckdcapecod.com

Please visit our showroom & meet our custom design consultants.

18 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

BUILDING WITH SOLAR RHEOVMIEVEwithYMaOrvinUR

SOLAR continued from page 16 Visit Our 8,300 Square Foot

The process of having a solar sys- Innovative Retail
tem installed and then connected to the Showroom Today!
grid can seem daunting. Stoots explained
that E2 Solar works with Eversource in ad- With over 140 years of combined experience
vance of the installation, secures any nec- in the business, our specialists at Marvin Design
essary permits and inspections, arranges Gallery by MHC know windows and doors
interconnection, completes paperwork better than anyone else on the Cape & Islands.
for the homeowner and provides what the You can trust us to offer prompt and
homeowner will need for the tax credits. professional quotes, sales and service.
We specialize in creating spaces that reflect
Both Sanborn and Stoots have ad- each homeowner’s personal style. From
vice for consumers in the market for solar. design consultation and selection to installation,
If a roof is already well into its lifetime, our trained professionals will assist
Stoots advises homeowners to consider you every step of the way.
replacing the roof before adding solar
panels. If a roof does need to be replaced Bring It. All Of It.
after panels are installed, he points out
that solar panels aren’t a permanent Hurricane Force Winds • Driving Rain
fixture. E2 has removed, stored and rein- Heat and Cold Humidity • Endless Sun
stalled panels for many clients. Ocean Air
When you’re battling the elements, it
Stoots suggests homeowners ask makes sense to have the best partner
solar companies how much of the process by your side. Marvin Design Gallery
they actually do, how many years they’ve by MHC, your local Marvin Windows
been in business and for references. “The and Doors Dealer is here to help.
contractor should provide, at minimum, a You can rest easy because the
5 year labor warranty,” says Stoots. Product Coastal Complete solution from
warranties can vary wildly, so ask about Marvin® delivers . . .
that as well. 365 DAYS A YEAR!

Sanborn suggests homeowners ask a complete window and door showroom $750 off
the following questions: by MHC
the purchase and installation of a
• Is the company going to uphold your 73 Falmouth Road • Route 28 • Hyannis, MA 02601 bulkhead ClamDoor ®with any
purchase of Marvin Windows or Doors.
shingle warranty? 508-771-6278 www.marvinbymhc.com

• Is the company insured?
• Is a master electrician doing the

electrical work?

• What is the warranty and who’s

underwriting it?

• What is the labor warranty?
• What will happen if the company

exits the solar business?

RESOURCES FOR HOMEOWNERS:

Mass DOER: www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-
assistance/guidance-technical-assistance/agencies-
and-divisions/doer/

Mass Solar Loan Program: www.masscec.com/
programs/mass-solar-loan

Homeowner’s Guide to Solar Financing: www.
cesa.org/assets/2015-Files/Homeowners-Guide-to-
Solar-Financing.pdf

Solarize Mass: www.masscec.com/solarizemass

AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 19

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20 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING

HOW TO SPEAK ‘REMODELING’

Whether it’s a small cosmetic level. CAPS graduates pledge to uphold PHOTO COMPLIMENTS OF GAIL O’ROURE, WHITE WOOD KITCHENS
remodel such as replac- a code of ethics and are required to
ing bathroom fixtures, or a maintain their designation by attending > MECHANIC’S LIEN: A lien ob-
major down-to-the-wall-studs overhaul education programs and participating in tained by an unpaid subcontractor or sup-
of your kitchen or adding new space to community service. plier through the courts. When enforced,
your home, understanding the terminol- real property – such as your home – can be
ogy your professional remodeler is using > CHANGE ORDER: This is written sold to pay the subcontractor or supplier.
can be very helpful to ensure you get the authorization to the contractor to make a If a subcontractor or supplier signed a lien
finished project you want. change or addition to the work described release, then this lien cannot be enforced.
in the original contract. The change order
As you interview potential contrac- should reflect any changes in cost. > PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS: 
tors, this glossary of common terms used These are drawings for the project, and
by builders and remodelers will help you > COST-PLUS CONTRACT: A a detailed list or description of the known
understand the language of your remodel- contract between a contractor and home- products, materials, quantities and finishes
ing project – and help you avoid miscom- owner that is based on the accrued cost to be used.
munication with your contractor.  of labor and materials plus a percentage
for profit and overhead – also known as a > PUNCH LIST: A list of work
> ALLOWANCE: A specific dollar time-and-materials contract. items to be completed or corrected by the
amount allocated by a contractor for contractor, typically near or at the end of
specified items in a contract for which the > DRAW: A designated payment a project.
brand, model number, color, size or other that is drawn from the total project bud-
details are not yet known. get to pay for services completed to date. > SUBCONTRACTOR: A person or
A draw schedule is typically established in company hired directly by the contractor
> BID: A proposal to work for a the contract. to perform specialized work at the job
certain amount of money, based on plans site – sometimes referred to as a trade
and specifications for the project. > LIEN RELEASE: A document contractor.
that voids the legal right of a contrac-
> BUILDING PERMIT: A document tor, subcontractor or supplier to place a Visit capecodbuilders.org for additional
issued by a governing authority, such as a lien against your property. A lien release consumer information about remodeling
city or county building department, grant- assures you that the remodeler has paid including how to live while you’re remodeling,
ing permission to undertake a construc- subcontractors and suppliers in full for understanding your remodeling contract and
tion project. labor and materials. questions to ask when looking for a remodeler.
To find a professional remodeler in your area,
> CALL-BACK: An informal term visit capecodbuilders.org.
for a return visit by the contractor to re-
pair or replace items the home owner has AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 21
found to be unsatisfactory or that require
service under the warranty.

> CERTIFIED GRADUATE REMOD-
ELER (CGR): A professional designation
program offered through the National
Association of Home Builders Remodelers
Council™. To attain the CGR designa-
tion, a remodeler must take a specified
number of continuing education courses
and comply with a strict code of ethics.

> CERTIFIED AGING-IN-PLACE
SPECIALIST (CAPS): CAPS profession-
als have learned strategies and techniques
to meet the home modification needs of
home owners who want to continue living
in their homes safely, independently and
comfortably regardless of age or ability

Custom Building
Design-Build
Renovations
Additions
Home Watch
Property Management
Painting

EASTHAM || CHATHAM || YARMOUTHPORT COMMITMENT || QUALITY || INTEGRITY
508.255.1770 || .C A .
Since 1971, Cape Associates, Inc. has been serving Cape Cod,
Plymouth and Nantucket as a trusted resource for home owners.

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22 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING Your home is your
most valuable asset.
WEIGH YOUR
OPTIONS before Protect it with a homeowners
DIY remodeling insurance policy from Safety.
Contact Rogers & Gray for
According to HUD and the U.S. Census Bureau, do-it- more information.
yourself (DIY) projects accounted for 37 percent of all home
remodeling projects performed nationwide from 2010-2011. While RogersGray.com • 781.534.9943
most professional remodelers understand that homeowners will The Genuine. The Original.
do some of their own home repairs or small renovations, after
repairing many a DIY gone awry they overwhelmingly believe #1 Builders Preferred Brand
that many jobs should be left to the pros.
A Recognizable Sign of Quality.
The desire among homeowners to tackle repair and Overhead Door Company Offers Dependable Design Assistance,
remodeling projects has risen with the popularity of Pinterest and
design blogs and the prevalence of home improvement stores. Installation and Prompt Service and Repair.
Before attempting to recreate the gorgeous bathroom from your The Overhead Door Company of Cape Cod
Pinterest board, consider the following before sinking your re- Servicing Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard
sources into the project. 50 Joaquim Road, Hyannis, MA 02601 • 1-800-640-6251

Safety Without the proper training and preparation, a www.overheaddoorcapecod.com

DIYer can and has landed in the emergency room. Unfamiliarity AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 23
with new tools and techniques can lead to life-threatening acci-
dents. Follow product directions and safety procedures and always
use proper safety equipment.

“HOMEOWNERS LOVE TO BE PART OF THE

REMODELING PROCESS... THERE ARE MANY

WAYS TO BE INVOLVED IN THE DESIGN AND

PLANNING PROCESS” -GAIL O’ROURKE

A good rule of thumb for any homeowner is to avoid
projects that require a license. Veteran remodelers advise against
doing electrical or plumbing work on your own. Also avoid mak-
ing structural changes to walls, roofs and floors. You run the risk
of compromising the structural integrity of your home and having
a large hole in your roof or floor. Leave this work in the hands of
professionals with the proper training.

Even projects that appear simple like laying floor tile can
result in stubbing your toes every time you are in that room if
tiles are improperly installed.

Time DIYers often tackle larger projects than they can

handle before the holidays so that visiting family can enjoy the
updates. But when something goes wrong, there is no one to hold
to the deadline. Hiring a professional will ensure that you have a
contract with a completion date and that the remodeler will bring

DONATE SHOP BUILD

Tax deductible donations Quality items for your home, Proceeds from the sales at ReStore
of builder excess materials, vacation house, dorm or office… stay local - and help fund the
store overstocks and homeowner either new or gently used. mission of Habitat for Humanity
unwanted treasures: All items are priced well below of Cape Cod to build affordable
retail to move quickly! homes for Cape families
• Cabinets New items arriving daily. living in situations of
• Appliances critical housing need.
• Doors/windows
• B uilding materials
• F ixtures
• Vanities
• Sinks
• Furniture

For a full list of accepted donations, drop-off hours or to arrange pick-ups, please Building Homes…
visit our website www.restorecapecod.org or call the ReStore at (508) 394-6400. Changing Lives...
Preserving Community
28 Whites Path, South Yarmouth just off Exit 8 of Route 6 Open: 9-5 TUE–SAT

24 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING What makes a kitchen great? photo Albert Leo

in whatever help is necessary to get the GOOD EATS. GOOD COMPANY. GREAT DESIGN.
job finished on time.
specializing in custom cabinets, counters, and islands
Even professional remodelers that impress and perform like treasured family recipes
sometimes need extra time on projects
when they find surprises behind walls. Kitchen Design & Project Management
Troubleshooting these issues often takes Gail O’Rourke, Principal
more time and expertise than originally 508. 353. 9183
planned. If timing is a priority for your
weekend warrior, call a professional re- whitewoodkitchen.com
modeler to get your project completed.  BOSTON | CAPE COD

Cost Purchasing new tools is exciting, featuring

but consider the price of all the specialty AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 25
tools used for a one-time project when
they are later untouched in your garage for
a few years.

Additionally, many of the products
purchased for the DIY market, although
designated by a name brand, are not always
the same quality available to contractors. It
is also important to verify the terms of the
product warranty. Many warranties become
void by improper installation.

“Homeowners love to be part of
the remodeling process. With a kitchen
remodel there are many ways to be in-
volved in the design and planning process;
planning the layout, making selections for
finishes and function for interiors. Instal-
lation is best executed by a professional
cabinet installer. Cabinets perform best
when plumb and level, countertops will be
set properly and the end result will a new
kitchen that perfectly integrates into your
existing home,” said Gail O’Rourke, owner
of White Wood Kitchens in Sandwich.

There are some home projects
that professional remodelers believe can
be tackled by determined DIYers such as
hanging pictures, interior painting, caulk-
ing, changing door knobs and cabinet pulls,
and some aesthetic work (depending on
skill level) such as installing crown molding.
Just consider the safety risks, time and cost
involved in a DIY project of any size.

Still think you can tackle a big
remodeling project? Just remember, DIY
projects should be fun and suit your skill
level. If they’re not, then consider hiring a
professional.

For information about hiring a remodeler, visit
capecodbuilders.org.

designs for essential living spaces
Main Street at Botello’s 26 Bowdoin Rd Mashpee, MA 02649 508-477-3132 www.MainStreetBotello.com

26 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

TRENDS

Baths
WHAT’S IN WHAT’S OUT

Contemporary, zen-like retreats 84 percent of designers in 2014, maintain- IN: CLEAN LINES
have strengthened their hold on ing its long-standing dominance in the IN: PURPLE, LAVENDER, AND LILAC TONES
bathroom design, according to top spot. Beige fixture colors are a distant
the 2015 Kitchen & Bath Design Trends third and declining in popularity. AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 27
report from the National Kitchen & Bath
(NKBA). Almost all amenities for the bath-
room are on the increase. NKBA design-
Here are the top 10 overall ers cited steam showers, electric heated
bathroom design trends identified by the floors, anti-fog mirrors, lighted showers
NKBA and shower seats.

> Clean, white, Other respondents mentioned
contemporary designs coffee and bar areas in the bathroom,
separate water closets, and drawer pullouts
> Floating vanities and rollouts for hair styling equipment
and oral care appliances.
> Open-shelving
While bathrooms continue to have
> Electric heated floors more walk-in showers and fewer built-in
tubs, tubs still have legions of fans. More
> Purple haze than two-thirds of NKBA designers
reported that they specified a free stand-
> Trough sinks ing soaking tub for master bathrooms
last year, and more than three-quarters
> User experience (ease of installed a standard tub and shower sur-
use and maintenance) round for guest bathrooms.
and accessibility
Jetted tubs, whether whirlpool or
> Amenities air are considerably less popular.

> Innovative storage Under-mount sinks, already the
number one style used by 90 percent of
> Showers and freestanding designers in 2014, are predicted to grow
tubs strongly in 2015. Vessel sinks, at a distant
number two, are expected to decline, al-
Contemporary and transitional are though they held steady in 2014 in spite of
by far the most common bathroom styles, an anticipated decline. In a new twist on
outpacing the third most popular style – the old side-by-side vanity sinks, several
traditional – by more than 15 percentage commenters noted that they had installed
points. Nearly half of NKBA designers single large trough sinks in master bath-
surveyed expect to see more contempo- rooms, with two faucets.
rary in 2015.
IN: FREESTANDING TUBS
White and gray are the dominant
colors for bathrooms, specified by more
than 70 percent of respondents in 2014.
Half expect to see gray growing in 2015.
Intriguingly, several comments referenced
purple, lavender and lilac tones for the
bath. White fixtures were the choice of

TRENDS

WHAT’S COOKING IN KITCHEN DESIGN

The Homebuilders & Remodelers signers surveyed are doing more contem- kitchen abound. Pullouts and rollouts for
Association of Cape Cod traveled porary kitchens in 2015, running a close kitchen cabinets were specified by more
to the National Kitchen and Bath second behind transitional styles in terms than 90 percent of NKBA respondents in
Association annual show in Las Vegas of popularity. The rise of contemporary 2014. About 40 percent expect to see pull-
this year, viewing the latest products and and transitional kitchen designs has been out and rollouts increase in popularity in
technologies while gaining insights about swift. Both styles have increased in specifi- 2015. Ease of use extended to accessibility,
its survey of members nationwide. cations by more than 15 percentage points with more than half of NKBA designers
in just four years. specifying accessible or universal design
Here are the key findings from its
Kitchen and Bath Design Trends Survey: Versatile shaker styling is a popular IN: EASY PREP AND CLEAN-UP
interpretation of transitional, and almost
> Clean with an overall 40 percent of NKBA survey respondents features into kitchens during 2015.
contemporary feeling said they will do more shaker-styled kitch- Easy prep, maintenance and clean-
ens in 2015. Several designers also noted
> A fusion of styles and the rise in industrial chic, while others up features are in demand. Some designers
multiple colors in one cited momentum for mid-century modern report that they install multiples of appli-
kitchen designs. ances – most notably two dishwashers – in
the same kitchen.
> European-styled cabinets Traditional ended 2014 as the
> Multiples of appliances in fourth most popular kitchen style, About two-thirds of kitchens now
although a quarter of designers will do have desks or home office areas, as well as
one kitchen fewer traditional kitchens in 2015. While flat-screen televisions and docking/charg-
> The rise of steam ovens decreasing in popularity, it remains a ing stations.
> Furniture-look pieces dominant kitchen style with 63 percent of
> Outdoor kitchens designers reporting that they did at least The hub of the home is increasingly
> Fewer standard kitchen one traditional kitchen in 2014. centered on counter areas, not kitchen
tables, according to multiple survey
tables, replaced by IN: WHITE respondents. Islands are replacing tables.
counters or tall gathering Many respondents identified integrat-
tables White is the most common color ing furniture-styled dry bars into kitchen
> TVs and docking stations scheme for kitchens, followed by gray. designs.
> Wine refrigerators About a third of respondents did black
Focus on the user experience, from or blue kitchens in 2014, with about 20 Half of all NKBA designers speci-
easy maintenance to accessible design. percent expecting to do more kitchens in fied an outdoor kitchen in 2014, up seven
Considering the needs of all users in the those colors. Almost 40 percent did kitch- percentage points from 2013, a statistically
space, including pets. ens in green tones in 2014. significant increase.
More than half of the NKBA de-
Designers reported that kitchens The National Kitchen and Bath Association
IN: CONTEMPORARY DESIGN with multiple color schemes are emerg- has tracked kitchen and bath design trends
ing. Passé are country/rustic, Tuscan and throughout its 52-year existence. A version of
28 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 Provincial looks with distressed finishes, this NKBA Design Trends Survey has been
as well as color schemes in reds, bronzes, in existence since the 1980s and this iteration
and terra cottas. has tracked trends since 2010. More than 400
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HB&RACC

CONSTRUCTION
CAREER DAY

Inaugural Residential The Home Builders & Remodel- provided hands-on activities and demon-
Construction Career Day ers Association of Cape Cod strations, shared their experiences, and
Generated Excitement (HBRACC) in partnership with the answered questions for students. Career
for Local High School Cape & Islands Workforce Investment fields represented at the event included
Students about Career Board (CIWIB) produced the Cape’s first architecture, building, carpentry, electri-
Opportunities annual Residential Construction Career cal, environmental, engineering, financial
Day of Cape Cod. The event was held on services, masonry, plumbing, real estate,
Thursday, October 15, 2015 from 9:00 am smart home technology and many more.
– 1:00 pm at the Cape Cod Fairgrounds in
East Falmouth. “The residential construction
industry is one of the primary economic
Hundreds of high school juniors drivers on the Cape, and this labor short-
and seniors from across the Cape attended age is a vital issue for our members and for
the event to learn about job opportunities home owners.” said Christine Duren, Ex-
in residential construction and related ecutive Officer of the HBRACC. “Mem-
fields. The Career Day also broadened bers are finding they have to schedule
teachers’ and guidance counselors’ un- projects all the way into 2017 or worst case
derstanding of the industry and the wide scenario, turn down work due to the lack
range of career opportunities available. of available help. We’re held this event to
spur interest in the design and construc-
Professionals from a variety of tion fields, and to help create, fill, and
residential construction-related careers keep jobs here on the Cape.”

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR MAKING THIS EVENT A SUCCESS:

34 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HB&RACC

Chris’ Christine Duren
Corner Executive Officer
Home Builders & Remodelers
Association of Cape Cod

INTRODUCING HERBIE – Design With Your Pets In Mind.

It is part of our mission to educate And as you can see on the previous
and inform our members with changing page, Herbie was a hit with the students
rules and regulations, but we also take and we look forward to having more kids
seriously our commitment to protect and enjoy him, while learning about the im-
advocate for the consumer. portance of home building to families and
the community.
One way we are fulfilling that
commitment is to introduce you to our Our members are local, licensed,
resident expert – Herbie, the home and insured professionals, please support
builder. Herbie has his own blog full of local business by using our advertisers and
new ideas, tips & trends, and industry other members for your home building
issues – check it out on our website at and remodeling needs.
capecodbuilders.org.
Thank you for taking an interest
In addition to the blog, Herbie will in our association, and we hope you enjoy
from time to time contribute articles to this issue of At Home on Cape Cod.
our magazine, such as the one on page 54

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 35

HB&RACC

HOW ARE WE D

The state of homebuilding
on Cape Cod in 2015

A decade ago, more than 1,000 new homes build on,” Duren recently told the Cape
annually were built across Cape Cod. Then Cod Times.
came the Great Recession, and by 2009,
construction had dropped precipitously to IT’S A LABOR SHORTAGE.
just 300 new homes. Since then, there has
been slow, steady improvement. Last year Behind the lagging new home
ended with 553 new home building permits construction numbers is another emerging
issued from Provincetown to Falmouth. trend that is bedeviling the housing in-
dustry across the entire country and Cape
Still, that pace is 50 percent less in their existing home and remodel than Cod. It’s not just a lack of land or high
than in 2005. try to sell and rebuild something all new,” construction costs. Nor is it any longer lag-
explains Christine Duren, executive officer ging demand by customers. In fact, there
Over the tumultuous decade, many of the Home Builders and Remodelers is growing evidence of pent-up demand for
things have changed the homebuilding Association of Cape Cod (HB&RACC). new homes.
industry, but it would be inaccurate to base In fact, the average value of a new single-
its health just on new home construction. family home building permit has increased, The issue is a scarcity of qualified
While fewer new homes are being built, from about $268,151 in 2004 to more than labor.
remodeling work not only has recovered $437,000 by the end of 2014.
from pre-recession levels, but exceeded it Surprising because the problem
by at least 10 percent. That’s due to more than inflation. facing the nation’s economy, as well as Cape
“I think it’s really the unavailability of the Cod’s, has been unemployment since the
In 2005, there were 3,354 remodeling land,” says Duren. In many towns, available Great Recession.
permits issued across Barnstable County. land simply can’t be found any longer for
Even during the Great Recession, those new homes. It’s called build-out. The National Association of
numbers hardly waned. Last year, there Homebuilders (NAHB) calls the incidence
were 3,646 permits for remodeling projects. “I have a board member who of labor shortages nationwide “surpris-
says we’re in the rebuilding of Cape Cod ingly high,” especially given the fact that
“People are finding that in some because there are so few pieces of land to homebuilding has yet to fully recover from
cases it’s more effective for them to stay its 2008 crash.

36 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 “In fact, the labor shortage is now
substantially higher than it was at the peak
of the 2004-2005 boom, when annual
starts were averaging around 2 million,
compared to current rates of about one
million,” NAHB Economist Paul Emrath
says. This shortage extends from carpentry
to concrete pouring, and is particularly
acute among supervisory and managerial
positions.

“The last time builder-reported
labor shortages were as widespread as now
was just before 2001 during a prolonged

HB&RACC

DOING? WORKFORCE
INVESTMENT
period of strong GDP growth with overall on the nation’s economy recently noted: NEEDED
unemployment as low as 4 percent,” adds “Firms from several districts continued to
Emrath. describe shortages for particular types of COMMITTING TWO YEARS AND
skilled labor, predominantly in the con- SIX FIGURES TO STAFF TRAINING –
Today, owners of building companies struction industry.” FROM MANAGERS TO CARPENTERS
are begging for qualified employees. In – CAPE ASSOCIATES HOPES IT
fact, unemployment in the construction WHAT’S HAPPENING ON CAPE COD? HELPS RECRUIT AND RETAIN STAFF.
industry fell this summer to the lowest
level since 2001, according to an analysis According to the U.S. Bureau of La- Cape Associates has grown
by the Associated General Contractors of bor Statistics (BLS), there were 5,758 people substantially in recent years, hir-
America, because contractors are having a employed in the construction industry on ing more employees and extending
hard time finding enough qualified workers Cape Cod a decade ago. As we began to offices from its Eastham base to
to meet growing demand. emerge from the Great Depression, that the Mid- and Upper Cape. With its
number had dropped by nearly 25 percent. expansion have come new challenges
“Expanding job opportunities – especially attracting new employees
throughout the economy make it increas- Since then, employment – like new with high skills.
ingly difficult for contractors to find expe-
They’re not alone. The entire
“I DON’T THINK THAT YOU’RE GOING TO SEE Cape Cod construction industry
THE LEVEL OF NEW HOME PERMITS GET TO THE finds it particularly difficult finding
qualified managers and carpenters to
LEVELS EXPERIENCED A DECADE AGO.” keep up with customer demand.

-MICHAEL DUFFANY In Cape Associates’ case, the
company took an unprecedented
rienced construction workers,” said Ken Si- home starts – has steadily improved, and it step. It applied for and recently
monson, the association’s chief economist. now exceeds 5,000, according to BLS. Total received a $143,000 grant from the
“This scarcity shows up in record work annual wages of construction employees state to establish an ambitious train-
weeks for craft workers and flattening of follow a similar pattern: In 2004, it was ing program it hopes will not only
employment totals despite higher construc- more than $250 million to less than $210 improve its current employees’ skills
tion spending,” he told USA Today. million before improving last year to $257 – from financial management and
million. customer service to carpentry – but
All this has major consequences for also help attract new talent in a very
the entire economy. The Federal Reserve’s The reason this number isn’t higher competitive environment.
Beige Book, which periodically reports
HOMEBUILDING Continued on page 41 The grant was facilitated by
David Augustinho, executive direc-
tor of the Cape & Islands Workforce
Investment Board (WIB). At Home
on Cape Cod interviewed Lindsay
Cole, human resources manager at
Cape Associates to learn more about
the training grant and the company’s
plans.

Q How did you learn about this
Workforce Training grant and
decide to pursue it?

Lindsay: We originally received a
$25,000 safety grant from the state
to enhance our employees’ capabili-
ties from first aid to OSHA 30 to safe

CAPE ASSOCIATES Continued on page 38

AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 37

HB&RACC

Asurvey of HBRACC members reveals where the jobs are In what positions are you experiencing a shortage?
needed, and why. Fifty percent of our members are
experience a shortage now and have been for the past three BASIC CARPENTRY/WOOD SKILLS 87.5%
years. Their businesses are growing, and the need is in every FINE/TRIM CARPENTRY 75%
position, primarily in woodworking, carpentry, and framing. FRAMING 56.2%
DOOR/WINDOW INSTALLATION 37.5%
rs – 31.2% PROJECT MANAGEMENT/ 37.5%
SITE SUPERVISOR
When have PAINTING 25%
you experienced a DRYWALL 18.7%
need for either entry ROOFING 18.7%
level or experienced PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 18.7%
positions for your SALES/MARKETING 6.2%
OTHER 6.2%
business? MASONRY/STONEWORK 0

Th e need is
Past 3 or more yea

now – 68.7%

CAPE ASSOCIATES Continued from page 37 our top managers to our newest employees. Training includes cus-
tomer service, sales training, leadership, personnel management,
lifting practices. At that time, our CEO, Matt Cole, learned of teambuilding, Microsoft project management, Excel, finance for
the workforce training grant and discussed it with David at WIB, non-financial managers and intermediate and advanced carpentry
who helped facilitate it. at three different skill levels. It also entails a train the trainers and
instructional design component.
We are members of the Employers Association of the
NorthEast, which provides training and human resources. We Q Train the trainers? What’s that?
were able to recruit a grant writer through the organization to Lindsay: We have chosen three of our top foremen to be
help us through the process and write the successful grant. trained as teachers to our staff. These are among the most accom-
plished professionals, but they did not necessarily have the teach-
Q What does the Workforce Training grant provide, and what ing skills to impart their knowledge and experience as effectively
are your responsibilities? as possible. We considered this a better investment in our future
than bringing in outside consultants.
Lindsay: These grants can go as high as $250,000. Our needs as-
sessment translated not only to the $143,000 from the state, but But, it took a lot of work and planning – including develop-
also an equal amount that Cape Associates is required to match ing intermediate and advanced carpentry syllabi. We then needed
through additional wages and fringe benefits for employees who the state to approve them as trainers. As a result, our trainers are
have the training. We initiated the program in July and we have 24 in place all the time, and we think it is way to sustain the program
months to complete it. We’ve always been committed to training, even after the grant runs out.
but did not have the requisite skills and environment to be as ef-
fective as we must be. Q What are your prime goals for the training program?
Lindsay: It’s very difficult recruiting intermediate and ad-
Q What are the training modules? vanced carpenters. Many of the best ones wish to remain indepen-
Lindsay: It ranges broadly so that it affects everyone from

38 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

HB&RACC

50% DO YOU HAVE MORE WORK/ No RANK THE TYPE OF PROJECTS: 5 being the majority
Yes PROJECTS THIS YEAR THAN 50% of your business and 1 being the least.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR?

TYPE OF PROJECT 12345

Up SIGNIFICANT
10% REMODEL OR
RENOVATION OF
OVER 50% OF HOME

Up TEAR DOWN/REBUILD
25%
Business is IF YES, BY ROOM REMODEL
approximately APPROXIMATELY Up OR ADDITION
the same as last 40%
year, the trend WHAT NEW HOME ON
is still strong. PERCENTAGE? VACANT LOT

OTHER

Up THE RANKING SCORE IS
50% THE WEIGHTED AVERAGE
Up CALCULATED BY DIVIDING
over THE SUM OF ALL WEIGHTED
50% RANKINGS BY THE NUMBER
OF TOTAL RESPONSES.

dent. But, for the long run, we want to enhance our own staff. common goals and place.

The training program will allow our employees to move Q Who will benefit the most from the training?
up in the company. As they improve their skills, their pay will rise Lindsay: We hope many of our staff. We have very strong
as well. They not only will make more money, but they will have aspirations for our construction project managers, who should
greater job security. Our goal is certainly to retain as many of our have a better handle in the future about finance, accounting sys-
trained staff as we can. The longer people are here, the more likely tems and billing, as well as customer service skills In this way, we
they will stay for many years to come. anticipate that our clients will be more drawn to them and return
to us for future work.
Q How do you measure success of the training program?
Lindsay: That’s critical for the state. We have to identify We get so focused on the projects themselves that we can
how many new jobs are created as a direct result of the training lose sight of the fact that our managers are directing more than
program. We expect the eventual number to be about 10. The construction. They are responsible for their employees, other
grant also requires a measurable number of promotions, and we contractors and vendors and clients. We want our crew members
anticipate about 15 through the carpentry program. We identi- to be more responsive and work well together. The better the
fied potentially 35 people in the company who can receive wage relationships all around, the more successful the project will be.
increases from their training,
We also are excited about the carpentry programs, and we
Q Beyond attracting skilled employees and improving your anticipate watching our employees rise from apprentice up the
own staff, what other benefits do you hope to derive from ranks.
the training program?
To learn more about the Workforce Training program, visit www.ciwib.
Lindsay: At the end of the day, improved training and skills need org/workforce-investment-board/workforce-training-fund/
to improve the company’s productivity and gross margins. We To reach David Augustinho at the WIB, [email protected]
also hope to enhance teamwork as we all train together around
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HB&RACC

HOMEBUILDING Continued from page 37 experienced a decade ago.” The wage gap on Cape Cod has
been a chronic issue involving virtually ev-
has more to do with the shortage of avail- Compared with new home construc- ery sector of the labor market for decades.
able labor than customer demand. tion, remodeling requires far less lead time
and infrastructure expense; and it’s easier Consider that the average earnings
Numbers tell the story. to adjust a company’s remodeling resources in the construction industry on Cape Cod
to the cyclical economy. is $41,278, according to the Workforce
The Cape and Islands Workforce Investment Board. That compares with
Investment Board reports that there are Remodeling – or even knocking $50,111 nationally. Yet, the median price
seven percent fewer people employed in down and rebuilding a house – also requires of a home sold on the Cape last month
the construction industry and corollary far less time and money for permitting and was $327,000, compared with $189,000
businesses such as HVAC and plumbing dealing with environmental and conserva- nationwide.
across Barnstable County now compared tion regulations.
to 2008. The labor shortage is particularly Augustinho, the Workforce Invest-
acute for construction company supervi- But, maybe more than this, builders ment Board’s executive director, notes that
sors and individual project managers on who are ready to construct new homes are housing is among the slowest industries
Cape Cod, says David Augustinho, its stymied by the labor shortage, with few to recover from any recession, no less the
executive director. strategies to improve the situation in the most severe economic downturn since the
short term. Depression.
There simply are not enough quali-
fied workers to meet rising demand. “IN FACT, THE LABOR SHORTAGE IS
NOW SUBSTANTIALLY HIGHER THAN IT WAS
Currently, there are about 730
people employed as construction managers AT THE PEAK OF THE 2004-2005 BOOM...”
here. That’s 28 percent fewer than in 2008,
according to the Workforce Investment -NAHB ECONOMIST PAUL EMRATH
Board. These are the very qualified profes-
sionals who plan, direct, schedule, budget How and why, then, is there a persis- While Cape Cod did not suffer as
and coordinate construction projects. tent labor shortage despite the recovering severely as the South, Southwest and Rust
economy? Belt, it certainly took a serious hit. That
Similarly, there is a 19 percent drop- included a steady migration of skilled work-
off in the number of people employed as • Wages paid on the Cape for these ers and managers out of construction.
higher-level supervisors. jobs are not competitive with off-
Cape markets. “During the recession, people had to
Meanwhile, there are 5.6 percent find other occupational areas,” he said. For
fewer carpenters now compared to 2008 • Housing for employees is in scarce those who wanted to stay on the Cape, one
and 7.5 percent fewer painters, the Work- supply not only because there is option was landscaping. Retirees and second
force Investment Board reports. a shortage of building lots along homeowners continued to maintain their
with high construction costs, but properties during the economic downturn,
The only labor group that seems to communities continue to resist creating new opportunities in this field.
be in good supply are relatively unskilled affordable housing solutions.
laborers who operate hand and power tools, Others decided to seek jobs off
mix cement, clean and prepare sites, dig • Many of the best qualified workers Cape in other industries, said Augustinho.
trenches, set braces, erect scaffolding and left the Cape during the recession They traveled as far as Boston and Provi-
remove debris. Their numbers are up 10 years seeking better opportunities. dence, or in some cases, moved elsewhere
percent from 2008. in the country. This appears particularly
• Opportunities not only were true for managers and supervisors.
WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? geographically elsewhere, but also
outside the construction industry. While building companies now are
One thing that most builders and ready and willing to hire, many workers
economists agree on is that the pace of new • While local vocational high schools and managers who left the industry and
home construction on Cape Cod will not and community colleges are doing successfully found other employment are
return to pre-recession levels soon, if ever. a good job training new workers, not inclined to give up those positions and
they cannot keep pace with demand. return, noted Augustinho - especially in
For one, the builders who sur- Even so, these workers are not the an industry like construction, which is so
vived the Great Recession are reluctant skilled and experienced labor most cyclical economically.
to overextend. Michael Duffany, former businesses on the Cape are seeking.
HBRACC president and current board AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 41
member, says the recession taught people
not to “bite off more than” they can chew.
“I don’t think that you’re going to see the
level of new home permits get to the levels

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42 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

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BUILDING COMMUNITY

TREVOR MEYER
HELPED COORDINATE
PRE-CONSTRUCTION

NICOLE NOIA, LEFT AND LESLIE POULIN
OF FIRST CITIZENS FEDERAL CREDIT
UNION, WHICH CONTRIBUTED FOOD
TO ALL THE WORKERS.

GAIL O’ROURKE OF WHITE WOOD KITCHENS,
WHO HELPED SUPERVISE THE PROJECT.
44 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

BUILDING COMMUNITY

ON DAY 1, THE BLITZ BUILD TEAM TRANSPORTED
PRE-CONSTRUCTED WALLS AND BEGAN INTERIOR FRAMING.
AMONG THE VOLUNTEERS WAS BRIAN HARDING, TOP
RIGHT, OF ANDERSEN WINDOWS.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 45

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Making the DREAM of affordable home

ownership POSSIBLE on Cape Cod

BY VICTORIA GOLDSMITH wages in many Cape jobs, and the price of them to the construction site.
a modest market rate home. For example,
Cape Cod builders, remodelers by usual underwriting standards, it would Jack Stevenson, president of Mid-
and suppliers did what may seem take an income of slightly more than Cape Home Centers and a board member
impossible. They constructed a new $94,000 to be approved for a home price of the Home Builders & Remodelers Asso-
affordable home in just five days. of $325,000. ciation of Cape Cod, graciously hosted the
pre-assembly team.
Volunteer builders and suppliers Cape Cod Habitat serves families
contributed time and resources to con- with household incomes of $53,463 – or Anderson donated his staff to
struct a two-story, three-bedroom tradi- frame the home and led the preassembly
tional Cape Cod-style house purchased by “It is crucial work. Trevor Meyer of Meyer & Sons was
a local family in need of a permanent, af- that we keep manager of the entire project, responsible
fordable home. The value of this commit- young families here for developing the precision schedule, co-
ment in time and materials – from doors on the Cape. They ordinating the timing and work of all the
and windows to heating and plumbing, are the workers trades people on site and communicating
appliances and flooring – is enormous. and the leaders closely with the town’s Inspectors.
of the future.”
This is one of seven Habitat for “This is the second time that our
Humanity of Cape Cod homes going up below – for a family of four. We received association has committed to building one
on approximately two acres on Oak 68 applications from Cape Cod house-
Street in Harwich behind Cape Cod holds for the seven Harwich homes now home for one family in one week.” An-
Regional Technical High School. in construction. derson said. “This is a way to bring
The project consists of three awareness to the lack of homes on
two-bedroom homes ranch homes, To expedite the actual construc- the Cape that people can afford,
one three-bedroom ranch and three tion of the home, walls and rafters for the
three-bedroom Cape style homes. Six of 28-foot by 28-foot, two-story home were and we get to see a deserving family
the homes will be built by the more tra- pre-assembled in advance at Mid-Cape reach the American Dream. Plus we
ditional model – over an 8-month period Home Centers in Orleans, overseen by have a great time doing it.”
with community volunteers of various Matt Anderson, owner of Anderson Fram-
skill levels. ing and Remodeling. Workers got a jump The Blitz Steering Committee
on the Blitz week and the huge task ahead worked for months in preparation for
“Young adults have been leaving by pre-cutting and framing the walls and the tightly-scheduled, week-long project,
the Cape by the thousands,” said Gail pre-cutting the rafters and transporting lining up a long list of professionals who
O’Rourke, owner of White Wood Kitch- will perform carpentry, electrical, plumb-
ens and chairperson of the Blitz Build ing, roofing, siding, flooring, cabinetry,
2015 steering committee. “The limited landscaping and other work inside and
availability and the high cost of housing out the house. Building suppliers made
are among the main reasons for leaving. It commitments of the specified materials
is crucial that we keep young families here needed. Town building officials also co-
on the Cape. They are the workers and the operated n scheduling inspections as the
leaders of the future.” work progresses. Habitat for Humanity of
Cape Cod obtained building permits, did
This flight from the Cape by young site work and had the concrete foundation
adults was documented in the 2014 de- poured and capped.
mographic report commissioned by Cape
Cod Young Professionals. The number of Victoria Goldsmith is executive director,
Cape residents ages 25 to 44 declined by Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod. She can be
27 percent in the decade 2000 to 2010. reached at [email protected]
One reason for this is the gap between

46 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

BUILDING COMMUNITY

THANK YOU to all who made the possible

PLANNING TEAM FW WEBB COMPANY TRUE VALUE HARDWARE – SOUTH DENNIS FRANCOISE ROCHER
GAIL O’ROURKE, WHITE WOOD KITCHENS HART FARM TRUS JOIST BY WEYERHOUSER THE GIPSON FAMILY FOUNDATION
RICH BRYANT, CAPE ASSOCIATES, INC. HARWICH PORT HEATING & COOLING W. VERNON WHITELEY, INC. IDEAL CONCRETE BLOCK
KATHY COADY, NEW ANGLE DESIGNS HARWICH PORT STOVE WHITE WOOD KITCHENS JAMES HALL
CHRISTINE DUREN, HBRACC HUBER ENGINEERED WOODS LLC JOE SANTANGELO
VICKI GOLDSMITH, HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HUTTIG BUILDING PRODUCTS HOSPITALITY AND OTHER SUPPORT REV. JUDITH DAVIS
BRIAN HARDING, ANDERSEN WINDOWS HVAC DESIGN AND CONSULTING ADVANCED COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES KATHY COADY
PETER KIMBALL, AP KIMBALL CONSTRUCTION INSULMART ALECSIES PIZZA LANDMARK GRAPHICS
PAULA MARLOWE, STONEWOOD PRODUCTS KAM APPLIANCES ANGELA KIMBALL MAGNUM MOVING
TREVOR MEYER, MEYER AND SONS INC. MID-CAPE HOME CENTERS ASHLEY CORMIER MARDI MAUNEY
BOB RYLEY, HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ML CURADOSSI DESIGN BARBARA LOCKHEART MID-CAPE HOME CENTERS
JACK STEVENSON, MID CAPE HOME CENTERS NAUSET DISPOSAL BEST TILE MIRANDA KING
JULIE WAGNER, CAPE COD LIFE PUBLICATIONS NEW ENGLAND TURF BOB SPENCE NICOLE FOX
HELEN WIECZOREK, HBRACC NORTHEAST TOOL SUPPLY BONATT’S BAKERY OLIVIA VASQUEZ
OUR OUTHOUSE BRI BLAKEMAN PATRICIA MONAHAN
CONSTRUCTION TEAM PINE HARBOR WOOD PRODUCTS BRYANTVILLE DELI - PEMBROKE PSR TRUCKING
A & E FORMS R.A. GRAHAM CO. CAPE COD LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION ROE OSBORN PHOTOGRAPHY
ALL CAPE INSULATION RELCO-REILLY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS CAPE COD LIFE ROGERS & GRAY INSURANCE AGENCY
ANDERSON FRAMING AND REMODELING RICK ROY PAINTING LLC CAPE COD MEDIA BROADCASTING ROSEWOOD MANOR
AP KIMBALL CONSTRUCTION ROBERT B. OUR CO., INC CATHY KAUTZ ROY COLBY
BLUEBOARD SPECIALISTS PLASTERING ROBERT CHILDS INC. THE COOPERATIVE BANK OF CAPE COD SHEPLEY WOOD PRODUCTS
CAPE ASSOCIATES, INC ROXUL DAN KLISKA TD BANK
CAPE COD INSULATION SHEPLEY WOOD PRODUCTS DANETTE GONSALVES WENDY CULLINAN
CHAMP HOMES INC. SHERWIN WILLIAMS PAINT STORE DAVE AKIN WOODBROWSER
CONOR R. WATSON BUILDING & REMODELING SIMONS BATH SUPPLY DAWN GIBSON
CORNERSTONE OUTDOOR LIVING SNOW AND JONES INC. DESMOND MCMAHON SPECIAL THANKS TO THE TOWN OF
DIRECT DRYWALL, INC. STONEWOOD PRODUCTS FALMOUTH TOYOTA HARWICH BUILDING DEPARTMENT AND THE
DRYWALL PLUS CONSTRUCTION SUN ENGINEERING FIRST CITIZENS’ FEDERAL CREDIT UNION VARIOUS INSPECTORS FOR HELPING EXPEDITE
E. J. JAXTIMER LANDSCAPE DIVISION TRUE VALUE HARDWARE – HARWICH PORT FISH PRODUCTIONS INSPECTIONS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK.
EDDIES PAINTING
EDSON PAINTING
EXECUTIVE LANDSCAPING
FETTIG TILE CO.
FINE BUILDINGS & FINISH, INC.
FRASER CONSTRUCTION
GRIFFIN PLASTERING
HARWICH PORT HEATING & COOLING
HOME ENERGY RATERS
HELIOS CONSTRUCTION CORP.
J I PAINTING
J.M. O’REILLY & ASSOCIATES, INC.
KD PLASTERING
LAWRENCE LYNCH
LINEAL, INC. ARCHITECTS AND BUILDERS
M. DUFFANY BUILDERS
MACKENZIE BROTHERS CORP.
MIKE STACY LANDSCAPING
ML RILEY CONSTRUCTION
NEW ENGLAND PAINTING
NORTHEAST CONSTRUCTION
PETER BALBONI
RELCO-REILLY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
RICK ROY PAINTING LLC
STEVE WESTGATE
TBEST PAINTING
W. VERNON WHITELEY, INC.
YORK CONSTRUCTION, INC.

SUPPLIERS
ALARM NEW ENGLAND
ALL CAPE INSULATION
ANDERSEN WINDOWS & DOORS
BB&S TREATED LUMBER OF NEW ENGLAND
BOTELLO HOME CENTER
BROCKWAY SMITH COMPANY (BROSCO)
CAPE COD AGGREGATES CORP
CAPE COASTAL NURSERIES
CAPE COD BRASS, INC.
CAPE COD INSULATION
CAPE COD TRAILER & STORAGE
CERTAINTEED CORP.
CLOUTIER SUPPLY COMPANY
COASTAL FOREST PRODUCTS
COASTAL N COUNTERS
COLORWORKS PAINTING
DAVEY TREE EXPERT COMPANY
DELTA T DISTRIBUTORS
DOW PRODUCTS
DRYWALL MASONRY SUPPLIES
EXECUTIVE LANDSCAPING
FETTIG TILE COMPANY

AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 47

TIPS

EXTERIOR HOME PAINTING TIPS
It begins with hiring a contractor or doing it yourself

If you’re thinking about painting most do-it-yourselfers, but if you are out in sheets. At this point it is always more

the exterior of your home, your first deci- of shape, you may find the work somewhat expensive to fix the problem than to do it

sion shouldn’t concern the color or sheen taxing. right in the first place. “

of the paint but, rather, who’s going to do > Do you enjoy physical work? Dunn offers these cautions:
the painting. Deciding whether to hire a From a psychological standpoint, many
contractor or to do the work yourself has home owners get enormous satisfaction A painter should power sand
implications for your social calendar, your from completing a home improvement rather than scrape loose paint. Scraping
peace of mind and your wallet. project. Along with the cost savings, this will result in a sharp uneven paint edge
is one of the rewards that go to those who where there are multiple layers of paint
With so much at stake, how do you do their own painting. overlapping each other. The paint will fail
make the right decision? the next time on that sharp edge because

This information from the Paint > Have you done exterior painting moisture will collect there and seep under-

Quality Institute can help you make the before? As with most home improve- neath the old paint causing it to lift.

right decision. ment projects, painting is easier “the > Not removing the gray/black
second time around,” after you’ve mas- mildew or mold from shingles or trim is
> Do you have enough time to do tered surface preparation and application a huge “shortcut” that low price painters
the job? Repainting a home can take a techniques.
full week or two. For many take. Stain or paint will not

people, that translates into a lot stick to a living organism like

of vacation days or weekends. “The same people who would walk away mildew or mold.
Are you willing to make the from a $20 “genuine” Rolex on a Manhattan
sacrifice? > Painting too soon after
rain or power washing also
> Do you have the pa-
tience to do the job correctly? street corner eagerly jump into a half-price results in rapid paint failure.
All professional painters use

While painting can be fun and contract with a painter.” -Paul Dunn a moisture meter to measure
psychologically rewarding, good the percent of moisture in the

surface preparation – essential wood to determine if the wood

to any successful paint job – can > Are you afraid of heights? Look is dry enough to paint. Less
be tedious. Will you really take time to to the highest point of your house. Would than 16 percent is the threshold.
properly prepare the surface before yield- you be nervous painting it from a ladder?
ing to the urge to paint? (Consider renting If so, proceed to your telephone direc- > Before applying latex paint over
power washing equipment to speed sur- tory and check the listing for “Painting oil requires that the oil paint finish be thor-
face preparation.) Contractors.” oughly sanded to dull the surface sheen,
followed by a sticky oil base primer because
> Can you afford to hire a contrac- >If you decide – after considering oil and oil stick well together. An oil primer
tor? By doing the job yourself, you can is meant to accept a latex topcoat.
all these questions – that you should find
save a lot of money. However, having your a painting contractor, there are an entire > Be sure the painter uses the actual
home professionally painted will be faster set of other considerations. A painting quality paint you contract for. Some low-
and eliminates the need for you to buy contractor is one of the few trade profesi- cost painters may put cheaper paint into
equipment, prepare the surface, and do sons where a state license is not required, expensive paint cans. With the cost of the
the actual painting. notes Paul Dunn, paint division manager best exterior paints selling for $55 a gallon,
for Cape Associates. they can “save” $45 per gallon.
> Do you have the proper equip-
ment? The highest quality acrylic latex If pricing is your major consider- “As the old saying goes, ‘If it seems
paint costs more, but it takes more than ation, be careful what you pay for. too good to be true, it probably is’,” said
paint and elbow grease to do the best job. Dunn. “Make sure you get a detailed esti-
You’ll also need ladders, scrapers, sandpa- “The same people who would walk mate with the work specifications spelled
per, brushes or rollers and safety equip- away from a $20 “genuine” Rolex on a out with clear pricing, the contractor’s
ment. Do you have these items? Are you Manhattan street corner eagerly jump address and phone number. Ask for, and
willing to invest in them? into a half-price contract with a painter,” check his or her references, and ask if you

> Are you in good health and rea- he said. “A year later, I may get a home- can call the last two customers he or she

sonably fit? Achieving professional-looking owner calling to fix the low-cost paint job has worked for. These recent customers can

painting results is within the skill level of because the paint is peeling off the house give an appraisal that is in real time.”

48 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 • 49

TIP SHEET

CEILING FAN
TIPS

How to benefit out the home, the greater the savings on
your energy bill.
from FASHION and
FUNCTION Ceiling fans provide beautiful and
functional illumination. Ceiling fans with
There are many benefits to incorpo- Ceiling fans are a style-driven lights allow you to contribute to the lay-
rating ceiling fans into your home’s accessory. Ceiling fans are available in ered lighting design of your room. Select
design that go beyond cooling off a a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes to a fan with a built-in light, or easily install
room. Using ceiling fans throughout the complement your unique interior style. a fan light kit, for general illumination
home greatly reduces energy costs, while Fans are more than just functional; they benefits.
also providing comfort, style and beautiful can serve as a statement piece or focal
lighting. point of a room. Design Tip: Choose a light kit that
coordinates with the fixtures and appli-
Ceiling fans can help lower your Design Tip: Interchangeable blade ances in other areas of your home. Many
electric bill by up to 30 to 40 percent. sets – such as the Progress Lighting Palm of Progress Lighting’s light kits are part of
While a ceiling fan doesn’t actually Blade Set – allow you to easily reinvent larger lighting families, such as the Trinity
decrease the temperature of a room, the the design of your fan without replacing collection, taking the guesswork out of the
draft makes the room feel cooler – allow- the entire unit. selection process.
ing you to raise the thermostat and be just
as comfortable. Ceiling fans offer versatility from Ceiling fans add year-round value.
room-to-room. Whether a living area, Many people are unaware that ceiling fans
Design Tip: Energy Star-rated fans, bedroom, screened-in porch or kitchen, can be used to circulate warm air during
such as Progress Lighting’s AirPro P2530- ceiling fans contribute to an enjoyable cooler months of the year. By running the
09 fan, are 60 percent more efficient than environment in almost any room of the blades clockwise, ceiling fans push warm
conventional fan and light units, offering home. Plus, the more fans used through- air down from the ceiling without creating
additional energy savings. a draft.

50 • AT HOME ON CAPE COD • FALL/WINTER 2015 Design Tip: Select a fan equipped
with a reversible motor, such as Progress
Lighting’s Trevina fan, to easily change the
direction of your fan blades to create a
comfortable living environment any time
of the year.