Fall 2011

The art of
home
building

Today’s smart home

Being creative
with stone

Saving space with style
Lighting trends



ENSURING THE QUALITY OF YOUR EXPERIENCE.

CUSTOM HOMES • RENOVATIONS • ADDITIONS

(508) 394-3090 We feature high quality Andersen® products
24 School Street
West Dennis, MA

www.CapeCodBuilder.com

officers Letter to our Readers
President
Rich Bryant Why a code of ethics?
Cape Associates, Inc.
Vice President/Treasurer It Is a suRe way foR you to handIcap youR choIce
Jim Gronski of a buILdeR oR RemodeLeR
Jim Gronski Construction
Vice President/Secretary When a homeowner does business with a member of the Home Builders &
Scott Gladish Remodelers Association of Cape Cod, there are many benefits.
Cape & Islands Glass
Immediate Past President Each member subscribes to a code of ethics. That means the builder,
Rob mcphee remodeler or associate member is not just doing a job, but also honoring a
mcphee Associates, Inc. commitment to the customer, the community, the nation and colleagues in the
Executive Officer industry.
Christine duren
Each assumes his or her responsibility as a member and supports other
Board of directors members of the Cape Cod association, the statewide Home Builders Association of
Bill Almeida Massachusetts and the National Association of Home Builders.
Falmouth Lumber Co.
Kevin Benger Specifically, members are dedicated to honesty, high standards and fair dealing.
Benger Construction Their goal is that every home purchaser receives the greatest value for every dollar.
Skip Carlton
mid-Cape Home Centers Members believe that homeownership should be within the reach of every
paul diggin family. They are dedicated to building homes that are well designed, well constructed
Advanced Communication and well located in attractive communities.
technologies, LLC
mike duffany Members also are forward looking, encouraging research into new materials,
m. duffany Builders techniques and equipment that may improve home building and home financing.
Brian Harding
Andersen Windows The association and its members are committed to support sound legislative
Stephen Klug proposals affecting home construction and home ownership, and are firmly
Fine Building & Finish committed to the principle that homes should be built by balancing affordability and
Liz Kovach regulation.
Windswept Custom Homes
tony Shepley Members also share information with the public on legislation and regulation
Shepley Wood products, Inc. that may impact home ownership, affordability and other issues of importance to
local communities.
ON CAPE CODHOMEOWNERʼS RESOURCE GUIDE
Members are committed to following all legal requirements for the industry.
editor The code of ethics establishes obligations that may be higher than mandated by
Glenn Ritt state, local and federal law.
[email protected]
art director For more information, please visit the association website at
Kimberly White www.capecodbuilders.org. To find builders, remodelers and their services, go to the
[email protected] website and click on Member Directory. You also can find our Member Directory in
photographers the back of at home on cape cod.
Roe osborn
Julia Cumes Richard M. Bryant
contriButing editor president, Home Builders &
Joe Santangelo Remodelers Association of Cape Cod
puBlisher
Ritt Communications scan here
RittCommunications.com to visit us online
printing & mailing
Spire
www.spire.net
4 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

Copyright © John DeFiora

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LETTER TO OUR READERS

4 e ethics of homebuilders

REAL ESTATE

7 What buyers want in a home

How does your house stack up?

PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY 28FEATURE STORY

9 Today’s smart home e ultimate in
custom homes
Seamless integration is the key
Incorporating original art
12 Open Cape
Sink by
Will it enhance your home’s value Steven & Matthew Kemp

32 New Products & Technologies GREEN

Inspiration for builders and 36 Rising from the ashes
homeowners
From a tragic re to a model home
HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS
ASSOCIATION OF CAPE COD 38 e Green Blog

14 How to become a member Energy-e cient ideas for the home

Investing in Cape Cod’s housing future TRENDS

STATS 40 Lighting trends for 2012

16 Home maintenance quiz Indoor and outdoor concepts

How many questions can you answer? MONEY

LANDSCAPING 42 Insuring your home

17 Ge ing creative with stone Tips if you rent your house

ere’s no limit to your imagination REMODEL

FACES 45 Mission Organization

20 Faces of Homebuilders Maximizing space throughout the home

What makes members so dedicated VIEWPOINT

BUILDING COMMUNITY 47 Beware the stretch code

23 Build week on Cape Cod HOMEOWNERS RESOURCE GUIDE

Builders join forces to help youth 48 A valuable resource to keep

25 Habitat for Humanity

is nonpro t becomes a retailer

26 WERC

It stands for 21st century training

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR COVER BY ROE OSBORN

6 AT HOME ON CAPE COD FALL 2011

Real estate

Key features the luxury
hometo attract buyers are:
energy efficiency marKet

and insulation
Among the
What buyers environmentally-friendly BETT MccaRThy
features offered in executIve vIce pResIdent,
want in a home today’s homes, buyers KInLIn gRoveR ReaL estate

for 2012 most often choose the What constitutes value and price?
ones that actually save
How does your home stack up? money on electricity, • Amenities
heating and cooling. • Location
by Joseph santangeLo
The use of recycled or • number and condition of bathrooms
price. Quality. Value. open layout.
modern features. A location not far from synthetic materials or • Updated kitchens and new appliances
water, bike trails or nature walks. other “green” features • open floor plan
are in less demand, un- • Size of dwelling and lot
On Cape Cod, buyers particularly are looking for a home less cost-savings can be
location and amenities that will contribute to a high-quality life- • proximity to beach
style that revolves around the Cape’s natural beauty. Many owners demonstrated.
in their 50s and 60s view their homes as a vacation destination for
their extended family and friends, and as a future retirement spot. maintenance-free • Waterfront
• Water views
But, as across the nation, most buyers in 2011 are con- materials • Lifestyle
cerned about pricing, move-in condition and clean, neat, airy, “Lifetime” 50- • Appreciation potential
flexible floor plans. Expect the same for 2012.
year roofing shingles, How to ensure your home investment
That’s the opinion from a sampling of real estate agents, rot-proof exterior and maintains its value
brokers and managers across the Cape’s 15 towns. “Price, above ev- high-performance
erything, is the biggest driving force right now,” said Mike Degnan, insulated doors often are • Keep it clean and clutter free.
co-founder of Realty Executives of Cape Cod, in Hyannis. included to cut down • make it light and bright with many
on anticipated repairs, windows.
“People don’t need any work,” said agent George Good- replacement and repaint- • maintain strong curb appeal.
speed at Raveis Real Estate in Chatham. “They’re looking for a ing by busy owners • Keep lawns well-maintained, trees and
ready-to-go type house.” of either a primary or shrubs pruned.
secondary home. • Invest in outdoor entertainment areas.
“I think smaller is better; but quality is imperative,” said • Update the HVAC, plumbing and
Gregg Wagner, vice president and brokerage manager of Sotheby’s location electrical systems, including installation
Homes in Osterville. “In the year-round home market, absolutely, Real estate of home- automation systems.
energy efficiency is a key.” • Keep floors in good condition.
agents say buyers seek • Update kitchens and baths.
“A colonial is the kiss of death down here,” said Brian Poth- a Cape Cod location • Repaint to keep interior and exterior
ier, manager for ERA Cape Real Estate in Orleans. “It’s a big box that balances accessibil- looking fresh.
that fits a lot of people. Most buyers aged 55 to 65 are past that.” ity to recreation, but • Be eco-friendly with good insulation,
away from busy traffic. windows and doors.
A minimum of three bedrooms and two bathrooms is es- The house should have
sential, and a traditional Cape Cod style house is preferred. some privacy from other
nearby properties, yet
not be tucked away in
the middle of nowhere.

Kitchen With

island
As for the home’s specific features, probably the most

critical is the kitchen. A large modern kitchen with a center island
is essential as a gathering point for family and friends. Granite
counter, abundant lighting and upscale appliances are expected,
especially by the move-up and custom-home buyer. That includes
recessed lighting, hanging pendants, professional stoves and
convection ovens, cabinets with glass door panels, built-in wine
cooler, extra sink in the island and possibly an extra dishwasher. A
mini office workspace often is requested.

At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 7

Choices Without The Charges. REal ESTaTE
Performance Without Compromise.
open floor plan, 8- to 10-foot
At Shepley we don’t just sell windows—we change the way they’re made! ceilings
We’ve partnered with Eagle Windows and Doors from Andersen® to offer
you design without limits through Eagle’s made to-order approach. Flexible, airy living space adjacent
to the kitchen is much in demand, where
Enjoy choices without additional charges! family and friends can gather to sit, eat,
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Interior Priming—NO UP CHARGE floors are more desirable than wall-to-wall
Four Muntin Bar Dimensions—NO UP CHARGE carpeting. A first-floor washer and a dryer
Stainless Steel Hardware Comes Standard—NO UP CHARGE also are desired for convenience. With
Boxed Screens—NO UP CHARGE people living more on the main level, de-
And Eagle has the industry leading coastal finish and the best coastal mand for upstairs laundries is declining.
warranty in the business!
Join the many building pros who rely on Shepley and Eagle to get the home office/study
freedom you desire! For people still employed, those

Shepley Showcase running a home-based business and oth-
75 Ben Franklin Way, HyanniWˆ508-771-7227 ers, an office (and sometimes one for him
and one for her) is crucial. People prefer
If your builder isn’t using Shepley...please ask why!® this space rather than a dining room. For-
mal dinner parties are becoming a thing of
www.ShepleyWood.com the past.

8 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 main-floor master suite
People looking ahead to their later

years want a master suite on the first level
to allow one-floor living. This is a must
feature for empty-nesters, and it appears
to be gaining popularity in general. His
and hers double closets are often sought.
A separate sitting area with TV or com-
puter is often added.

master Bath
A large, walk-in shower with built-in

seating is desired to accommodate people
of all ages. A soaker tub is also popular,
but a whirlpool Jacuzzi is less so.

fireplace
A gas- or wood-burning fireplace is

a popular addition as a home’s focal point,
and it will help take the chill out of a cool
spring or fall Cape Cod morning. A second
fireplace is sometimes built in the master
suite.

ceiling fans
Ceiling fans also are a popular way

to contribute to indoor comfort through-
out the year.

natural exterior/landscaping
Natural materials such as stone and

plantings are increasingly sought after, to
improve the attractiveness of the home’s
exterior and the enjoyment of outdoor
living. Selecting indigenous plants that
use less water and fertilizer also is drawing

REal ESTaTE - WhaT BuyERS WanT
contInued on pg 52

pRoducts & tecHnology

today’s smart home

seamless integration is the key to a reliable home automation system. The security
system needs to be able to talk to the lighting system, the lighting needs to be able
to communicate with the a/v equipment. a home automation system glues all these
various subsystems together so they can operate as one cohesive unit. you press
a button on a home control keypad or your smart phone and ipad - and all the
subsystems respond.

This is as close This particular project matter of service, relationships “The Apple connection
as you can get cost more than $100,000, but and customization - not hard- has made it much easier for
to a “smart” home. home control (automation is ware or expensive retrofit wir- consumers to manage their
A Cape Cod family re- a bit more expensive) solu- ing. This has driven the costs systems,” said Diggin. “So
cently retrofitted their house tions can be as little as $1,500 down substantially,” explains many clients already are Apple
to be fully automated and (as an entry level, very basic Paul Diggin, managing director users in some shape or form.
controlled from any one of a system) to create a universal of Advanced Communications They use the same interfaces
handful of devices - a seven- lighting system that can be re- Technologies (ACT), a leading on their phones and pads.
inch wall panel, a laptop, an motely controlled. The energy local consulting company that That’s extremely important
iPad and iPhone. savings alone from such an specializes in designing, install- because most customers are
investment will quickly justify ing and integrating audio/ very busy and don’t want to
An eight-zone audio that expense. video, lighting control, HVAC face a complicated system
system; two full surround- control, and security systems with lots of training. Here, it’s
sound systems, including a Seemingly overnight, as well as the infrastructures to really as simple as adjusting to
3-D theater, 80 light switches today’s smart phones, tablets support them. a new App.”
throughout the house, ther- and PCs have become interfac-
mostats, an intercom system, es with homes, providing own- ACT, with offices in ACT has grown, in large
the security system, even ers with surprisingly affordable Falmouth and Rockland, has part, because of the Cape’s
remote-control locks. ways to access and manage partnered with Savant Systems demographics. In many towns,
their house as a system. of Osterville - which has half or more of the households
And everything is man- developed its entire hardware are second homes, whose own-
aged from anywhere – work, “With the explosive and software platform on ers seek automation solutions
the car, even around the world pace of wireless Internet, home Apple technology. to protect their homes and
on vacation. automation has fast become a
At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 9

The Art Of Your Life PROducTS & TEchnOlOgy

Orleans 508-255-0200 • South Dennis 508-398-6071 manage heating, cooling and
Hyannis 508-362-6308 • Plymouth 508-746-3085 lighting remotely.

800-295-9220 • midcape.net “We have many cus-
tomers whose main residence
10 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 is hundreds, sometimes
thousands of miles from the
Cape and Islands who will
check the temperature of
their home here
to avoid wasting
electricity.
They will
turn up
the air
conditioning
in the summer
as they are crossing
the bridge or landing at the
airport, so their home will be the
perfect temperature when they arrive –
along with the lights automatically turned
on,” said Diggin.

When on the Cape, they just walk
through the door, press the “Home” but-
ton on their control panel and it turns on
specific lights in the house, sets a pre-de-
termined temperature, plays favorite music
or activates the jets to the hot tub. As they
leave the house, they can press the “Away”
button for automated lighting controls
that turn off and close specific lights and
shades, adjust the heat or air conditioning
and activate the security system.

A growing number of homeowners
also are asking for secure networks built
into their home automation system so they
can work remotely on the Cape. “They
don’t necessary want a formal office; they
are happy working on the deck or patio
– but they still need a secure, password-
sensitive network,” Diggin explained.

energy management

Maybe, the biggest spur to home
automation is the savings you can ex-
perience from energy management. An
automation system can greatly simplify
the task of programming thermostats, as
well as other energy-hungry devices. Many
manufacturers are developing scheduling
programs, accessible on touchpanels, com-
puters, tablets and smart phones, which
allow consumers to set up daily adjust-
ments for their thermostats. Home-
owners can see, right on the screen
of a user interface, real-time energy
usage in kilowatts and dollars spent,
for example. They can key in on the

main energy guzzlers and pattern iPhone® or iPod touch®. You can simply Professional Engineers
their behavior accordingly. touch an image of the actual light in the and Land Surveyors
room on an iPad. Not only will the light in
Dimmers, timers and occupan- the room turn on/off or dim when pressed, Providing solutions
cy sensors help reduce waste. In a typical but it will also illuminate on the iPad® to for the benefit
three-bedroom home, a family can save confirm the command. of our clients
more than 850 pounds of carbon dioxide and community
emissions each year. That’s like not driv- security
ing a car for a month. SHOREFRONT PROTECTION
Security also is a huge reason home
But, more significantly, it saves automation is growing so rapidly. With a MARINE INFRASTRUCTURE
money at home. Automated dimmers, for single press of a button from an iPhone,
example, can extend bulb life more than homeowners can lock exterior doors, acti- ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING
20 times longer than normal. Today’s vate their security system and view surveil-
automation systems turn off lights when- lance cameras. You can receive email alerts SITE DEVELOPMENT
ever a room is unoccupied, or triggers the or a text message to let you know when
thermostat based on the family’s schedule. your children get home from school, or if WASTEWATER TREATMENT
the garage door is left open, or if a water
lighting leak is detected in the basement. STORMWATER

Savant, for example, provides The same service lets you adjust HISTORIC PRESERVATION
one-touch access to numerous intelligent temperatures and monitor cameras from
lighting schemes tailored to any lifestyle. anywhere in the world, marrying security BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES
As an example, one simple tap on an iPad and energy conservation by having your
or iPod touch remote can activate exterior home automatically turn on the kitchen SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
floodlights and turn off all interior lighting lights during dinner time and the porch
for nighttime security and energy effi- lights at sunset. 260 Cranberry Highway
ciency. Orleans, MA 02653
media 508.255.6511
Automated lighting controls inte- CoastalEngineeringCompany.com
grate with motion sensors to dim or A SmartSystem from Savant is well-
equipped for audio-video control and man- At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 11
turn off lights when a room is agement, boasting an integrated iTunes®-
unoccupied; configure based digital media server that provides a
specific intel- familiar digital jukebox experience.
ligent lighting
to go on at All of the family’s favorite music,
sunset and off movies, television shows and more can be
at daybreak and securely stored, quickly accessed, shared,
remotely monitor displayed and selectively distributed
and adjust home throughout the home—up to four inde-
lighting control pendent and simultaneous types of iTunes
status throughout media can stream to any area in the home,
the house while away effectively achieving whole-house audio-
from home using your video distribution.

Any iPhone or iPod touch becomes
an active media player within your smart
home’s whole house audio system. Simply
connect your iPhone or a guest’s iPod
touch to a Savant Media Docks, for exam-
ple, and the media content loaded on each
device can be distributed to any room.

With Savant Systems Touch TV,
a user can tap the screen for a menu of
options to control lights, thermostats,
security and more without interrupting
the program on the television.

how to get staRted,

pLease vIsIt: www.actces.com

PROducTS & TEchnOlOgy

looking
to the
future

opencape broadband links
cape cod to the information economy

by Joseph santangeLo

Corporate executives sitting at the cape soon Will have activity while enjoying this lifestyle. We
home on Cape Cod could conduct meet- want to remove the barriers to making
ings with international colleagues or high-speed, high-capacity that decision.”
customers using the latest videoconferenc-
ing, making it appear as if everyone is in internet communication “What this means,” he said, “is
the same room. you can have intellectual capital devel-
around the gloBe, oped right here on Cape Cod, production
Employees could skip the daily in China if you want and customers in
grind of commuting to off-Cape jobs and maKing it an even more Europe. You can have it all - our beautiful
have access to information at the same environment, our wonderful lifestyle, our
speed as if they were at the office. They desiraBle place to live, arts, and you can run almost any business
could work from home or at shared space from here.”
in Sandwich, Hyannis or Orleans at a frac- WorK and oWn a home.
tion of city rents. “Infrastructure is the great enabler
transfer within Cape Cod and to the of economic activity,” Gallagher said.
Owners of vacation homes from world will become almost limitless - and “In the 1850s, if you didn’t get a railroad
Boston, Hartford, New York or Tokyo the types of work that can be done on station in your town, you died. You didn’t
could spend extended periods on Cape Cape Cod will be constrained only by hu- flourish economically. You didn’t have the
Cod, while continuing to run their compa- man imagination. Within two years, data ability to move people, goods and ideas. In
nies on the Cape. transfer speeds of 1 giga-byte per second
or greater will become available on Cape o cpen ape timeline
Remote areas of Wellfleet and Cod. • March 2010, Capenet selected to design
Truro, with slow Internet service or none build and operate the network.
at all, could have speeds as fast as in The engine that is driving this • June 2011, RFp issued for design, build
downtown Boston. economic transformation is OpenCape, and operation of the Regional Collection
a nonprofit corporation that has secured data Center.
There already is a spirit of entre- $40 million in grants to construct a fiber- • august 2011, network construction began.
preneurship and a culture of creativity optic backbone throughout southeastern • February 2012, RFp to be issued to build
on Cape Cod. Many entrepreneurs today Massachusetts. a common 700 mhz mobile public safety
combine a Cape lifestyle with doing system.
business off-Cape, but they are currently “The reason people come to Cape • Spring 2012, Some network segments
limited by the amount of data they can Cod is to enjoy the lifestyle and the natu- operational
upload back to colleagues or customers. ral beauty,” said OpenCape CEO Dan Gal- • december 2012, project completion
Internet upload speed on Cape Cod is lagher. “They want to spend more time
generally one-tenth of download speed. here, but they need to engage in business
In busy evening periods, especially in the
summer, speeds are limited.

Soon, however, broadband data

12 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

o cpen ape at a glance THE CARE YOU DESERVE
• A 350-mile fiber-optic network
“Every recommendation
• A microwave public safety backup system that you made was
right on target.
• more than 70 government, public safety You had a very gentle
and educational institutions connected to touch in leading us to
the network as part of the construction. ”the right decisions.

• A regional collection/computer data 1382 Route 134 Living in your house while it’s being
center in Barnstable Village, where East Dennis, MA remodeled?
government and businesses can house 508.385.2704
servers and software. Hundreds, maybe thousands, of miles from
McPheeAssociatesInc.com the Cape as your second home is being built?
• CapeNet LLC, a joint venture of telecom
Global and Capenet partners, will build Downsizing your budget and square
and connect the high-bandwidth network footage, but not your dreams?
to schools, libraries, town halls and
businesses. Expecting your builder to guarantee the
work years after you move in?
the 21st century, if you don’t have the big
bundle of fiber we’re running though the With four decades of experience managing
region, you will wither and die economi- the complexities of designing, building and
cally.” renovating on Cape Cod, you can trust
McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.
With this expanded communica-
tions capacity, the idea is to make Cape Just ask our many satisfied customers.
Cod an even more desirable place to live,
work and enjoy extended vacations. At the We welcome the opportunity to meet
same time, it may become more inviting and discuss your building needs. Visit
for young adults, so they do not have to McPheeAssociatesInc.com or call
leave for job opportunities elsewhere. 508.385.2704 to speak with the McPhees.

People will be able to do virtually DESIGN BUILD REMODEL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REAL ESTATE
any type of creative work on Cape Cod,
and transfer large amounts of data almost EST. 1972 WE’RE NOT JUST BUILDERS.
anywhere in the world - rapidly, securely WE’RE BUILDING PARTNERS.
and protected from the uncertainty of
summer hurricanes or winter storms. At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 13

Bert Jackson, president of the Cape
Cod Technology Council, points to broad-
band success stories such as Lafayette,
Louisiana, where a Hollywood special ef-
fects studio has emerged, and to southern
Virginia where a Mid-Atlantic Broadband
Cooperative has attracted an array of
international companies.

“We have an opportunity to lever-
age the creative economy we have here,”
Jackson said. “There are a lot of creative
people coming out of our tech schools;
there are a lot of creative people here.
Now, intellectual commerce can reach
anywhere in the world.”

“Most of us who live here on the
Cape live here because we love it,” Jackson
added. “It’s an environment like none
other in the world. We want to protect
that environment by having technical
industries here that have a low environ-
mental impact. That would be a perfect
blend, especially those industries with
high-paying jobs.”

ThE FuTuRE - OPEncaPE
contInued on pg 52

BEcOME a MEMBER

investing in cape cod’s

housing future

The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape Cod reflects the diversity of our
entire economy – from custom builders in business for five decades to recent graduates from our
two vocational high schools; from immigrants staking their futures on Cape Cod to families whose
roots here go back decades. We are architects and engineers, landscapers and electricians, technology
companies and attorneys, CPAs and Realtors. We work in industrial parks and in our home offices.

Our members represent every demographic, social and economic sector of our community;
and our daily activities not only drive our economy, but also reflect its cycles.

For businesses, here are some of the benefits that come from membership.
Please go to www.capecodbuilders.org to learn more and to join.

> three in one > memBership meetings > promotional > free legal research
Your dues include membership in General membership meetings pro- When you have a legal problem
the Home Builders & Remodelers vide members an opportunity to opportunities or question pertaining to building
Association of Cape Cod (HBRACC), exchange in a friendly atmosphere membership offers opportunities or development, simply call
the Home Builders Association of ideas and information – and to to promote your sales message and 1-800-368-5242, ext. 491 and
massachusetts (HBAm), and the keep in touch with fellow build- keep your name in front of your speak to a member of the legal
national Association of Home Build- ers, subcontractors and suppliers. customers and prospects. only research team. nAHB’s attorneys
ers (nAHB). You have access to more programs are planned to provide members can advertise in At Home will research your legal issue using
than 500 services. NAHB services are value to all members. network with on Cape Cod, as well as in our state-of-the-art resources, including
a click away with your password at companies that share your interests monthly newsletter. a computerized legal database and
nAHB.org. at dinner meetings, our annual golf access to nationally recognized
tournament and annual bowling > governmental affairs legal research libraries. They will
> neWs that affects event. The HBRACC, the HBAm and provide you with a written summary
nAHB provide powerful advocates of any related federal or state laws,
your Business > educational seminars for your interests at all levels of citations to legal precedents from
Staying informed is staying ahead in Seminars and workshops on a vari- government. The HBAm plays an courts throughout the country, as
the building business. We provide ety of subjects are held throughout active role in gaining positive results well as a wealth of other back-
prompt and reliable news on all the year. expert speakers and pan- on issues facing the home-building ground information.
matters that affect your business. els are assembled to train, educate industry. Be it zoning, building
on the local level, our Building and motivate members. professional codes or subdivision regulations, > puBlications
Inspectors Committee members designation programs include the the association is alert to seize op- Free subscriptions for At Home on
meet with local building inspectors Certified Graduate Remodeler, portunities, obtain more favorable Cape Cod, plus nation’s Building
at the South east Building Inspec- Certified Graduate Builder, and laws and regulations and to vigor- news and Builder magazine. Access
tors Association meetings on a Graduate master Builder. You will ously oppose harmful legislation. to other magazines and newsletters
regular basis. We are here for you receive invitations to attend the that are industry specific, such as
to address any issues that you may International Builders Show with > health insurance Remodeler and design Lines, many
have. At the state level, we attend 200-plus educational seminars, and With your paid membership, you’re of which are free to members. The
State Board of Building Regulations the Remodeler’s Show with more eligible for group health insurance home builder bookstore offers a
and Standards (BBRS) meetings to than 80 seminars, workshops, and through Health Services Admin- 20% discount to members on all
stay informed of pending changes roundtable discussions. istrators (HSA) of Braintree. They books, brochures, video tapes, and
and issues. provide the marketing, rating, enroll- audiocassettes.
ment, billing and collection services
for the plans offered. > memBer discounts
members have access to discounts
and savings opportunities offered
by many top companies, such as dell,
Fedex, General motors and Hewlett-
packard (Hp).

14 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

INDOOR LIVING

WIDE PINE FLOORING - RECLAIMED FLOORING & BEAMS - PLANK FLOORING - STONE VENEER

WAREHOUSE PRICES SELECT QUALITY
Harwich: 508.430.5020 Mashpee: 508.477.9950
15 Great Western Rd.
544 Route 130

the NATURAL SELECTIOn

GRANITE PAVERS - OUTDOOR SHOWERS - STONE VENEER - STONE FIRE PITS

OUTDOOR LIVING

DonH&’toBmuierlodFwiunrAgnwMisahayit…nergisals Please call us to arrange
your donations of:
Donate Them to the . Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod
• Gently used appliances and cabinets
is opening a ReStore to sell gently used and surplus furnishings • Surplus new building materials
• Non-upholstered furniture –
and building materials to the public at a fraction of retail prices.
indoor or outdoor
The ReStore will raise funds to help working families build • Electric, plumbing and lighting fixtures
• Other home, yard and landscape items
Habitat homes, while recycling and reusing materials.
No hazardous materials. All building
Watch for our grand opening this fall at 28 Whites Path, components must meet current
South Yarmouth, just off Exit 8 of Route 6. code requirements.
CALL TODAY. Pick-ups available. (508) 362-3559

Building Homes… For more information, please visit our website www.habitatcapecod.org,
Changing Lives... or call Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod at (508) 362-3559.
Preserving Community
Reuse. Recycle. .

At Home oN CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 15

AWARD WINNING CRAFTSMANSHIP STaTS
It’s in the Details.
A home
mHowaminantyeqnueastniocnes
quizcan you answer?

source: naHB

1] How often do forced-air furnace filters need to be changed?

2] What part of the faucet usually needs to be replaced when

you have a water leak?

3] Should you run hot or cold water through your garbage

disposal?

4] How often should the moving parts of garage doors be

oiled?

5] What tool can be used to unclog a toilet?

STEPHEN KLUG www.nebuildingandnish.com 508.240.4286 6] What faucet part needs to be cleaned every three to four

months?

ROGERS & GRAY INSURANCE AGENCY 7] Where should the fire in your fireplace be built?

Home • Auto • Business • Marine • Employee Benefits 8] What helps keep unpainted concrete floors easy to keep

9]When I first went to Rogers & Gray, clean?
What should you use to clean unpainted concrete floors?
I found out that I was not protected,
FineBuilding&Finishing_AHCC_QP v3.indd 1 3/4/11 2:47 PM

That s’ why I switched as I’d thought, with my previous agent.

The exceptional service provided to me
to Rogers & Gray while getting my home & car insurance, 10] When can you clean hardwood floors with water?

made me rethink my business insurance

as well. I’ve recently moved all my 11] What is the best polish for vinyl floors?
insurance to Rogers & Gray and am

very pleased with the decision. 12] Why should noisy water pipes be fixed promptly?
Patrick J., Dennis

VALUED PARTNERS 13] How often should your roof be inspected?
Rogers & Gray is strengthened by our 14] What should be regularly checked on your security system?
partnership with some of the finest property 15] At what temperature should your water heater be set?
and casualty insurance companies. 16] How often do skylights need to be inspected?
For homeowners, Narragansett Bay Insurance 17] What can you use to help a window slide easily?
offers a great alternative to the Massachusetts FAIR Plan. 18] What should you look for when you inspect your siding
Call Rogers & Gray to see if your home qualifies.
yearly?
You’ll be protected by the right
coverage at a better price.

»Our testimonials are
worth a quick scan

800.553.1801 answers on page 58
RogersGray.com
Refer to our Homeowner’s Resource Guide (pGS 53-58)
16 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 for companies that can meet your
home maintenance needs.

Landscape

Getting creative

stonewith
“There’s no limit to

the imagination as

to what you can

do with stone,”

says Anthony

Baroni, president

of Stonewood

Products in

Harwich, Mashpee

and Boston.

Stone can be natural or
manufactured, and it varies
depending on whether it will
be used for a driveway, a patio
or a wall. Some stone like blue-
stone is natural, but then me-
chanically heated to smooth
out one side for use on a patio.
Some stone is reclaimed and
reused from previous struc-
tures. Other stone is tumbled
to make it look old.

Photos from stonewood Products
and earth & stone hardscaPe

At HoMe on CAPe Cod • FALL 2011 • 17

Landscaping

Creative use of stone can start with new walkways
leading up to the front steps and then out to the patio and
on to an outdoor seating and cooking area. Take the first
step and see where it leads.

“People start with a 10- by 9-foot stone patio and
they’re absolutely thrilled. They say it’s changed their
lifestyle. They’ve expanded their living space by bringing it
outdoors. Then later they can add a fire pit, then a trellis
and a pergola,” says Baroni.

Beyond that, Baroni imagines even a pizza oven in
the backyard or an oven to bake bread outdoors.

“What’s really changed in the industry,” Baroni says,
“what’s really different in the past few years is integrating
water and fire into the outdoor living space.”

The fire component includes not just a grill, but also
all varieties of fireplaces, ovens and cooking spaces. Increas-
ingly popular is a fire pit as a place to gather after dark.
There is also a possibility for a fire table made of stone or tile, with a pit in the center that
can be natural gas fired or propane burning.

Water features can be simple or more elaborate, such as a man-made babbling
brook cascading over a rock formation. A pond, created by stone-and-mortar walls, can
add tranquility, reflection and ambiance to your landscape.

If budget allows, Stonewood Products and other dealers can create a computer
design for a complete outdoor kitchen area with built-in refrigerator, grill, storage draw-
ers and even a beer keg cooler. Modular outdoor kitchen designs grow increasingly more
elaborate from the Entertainer model, to the Bistro and up to the Gourmet style.

The ultimate is to build a roof structure over the entire kitchen area, in a pagoda

Celebrating 23 years

33 NORTH MAIN STREET
SOUTH YARMOUTH
508.394.0832

GeorgeDavisInc.com

18 • At HoMe on CAPe Cod • FALL 2011

“What’s really changed in the Partners for the life of
your home and business
industry,” Baroni says, “what’s really
Quality to meet
different in the past few years your budget.

is integrating water and fire Now you don’t have
to choose between
into the outdoor living space.” quality and price.

where the roof is supported by wood pillars and the sides remain Comprehensive home maintenance,
open to the air. improvement and landscaping

The trend in outdoor living space is toward natural materi- • Custom quality
als, natural products, natural wood, natural settings. The use of • Rapid response
stone often includes the use of nearby wood structures to soften • No-hassle, one-stop service
and add warmth to the look of stone.
for all your property needs
Some of the wood elements come in kits for easy assembly. • The highest skilled, experienced,
These include a three-sided wood trellis that can shelter a wood
bench. Cedar outdoor shower kits are readily available, and stone insured craftsmen
floors can be added. Also you can find kits to build your own • The most competitive pricing
pergola, which is a type of arbor to partially shield a walkway or • Client satisfaction guaranteed
sitting area from the sun.
How do we back up all these promises?
Wood decking comes in various forms and can be stained
in a variety of colors. The Home Team is a partner of Gable Building Corporation
of Chatham, which has been constructing and remodeling the
finest custom homes for three decades.
The Home Team provides the same no-compromise, high-
quality standards and accountability that distinguish every
Gable Building Corporation residence.
The Home Team benefits from economies of scale, sharing
overhead costs and efficiencies with Gable Building Corporation
– so we pass on the savings and value directly to our customers.
From scheduled preventive maintenance to emergency
response, The Home Team is there to preserve and
improve your home’s and business’s value and provide
year-round peace of mind.

www.capecodhomeservicesinc.com

508-945-2002

At HoMe on CAPe Cod • FALL 2011 • 19

Faces

the faces of

home Builders

the homebuILdIng and RemodeLIng IndustRy Is suppoRted by thousands of smaLL, Independent contRactoRs
who choose to combIne theIR pRofessIon wIth a dIstInctIve cape cod quaLIty of LIfe.
we shaRe three Businesses of ouR oRganIzatIon fRom tRuRo to buzzaRds bay.

proving creative With stone...
By Building their Business With it

Stacia and Michael Takach the lasting nature of stone STacIa Takach ness, renaming it Concrete
are a couple on the move. structures.” Solutions, Inc.
Literally. They recently oWneR
opened their expanded corpo- Like so many Cape Cod earth & stone llc, To manage Concrete
rate headquarters in Harwich individually owned companies concrete solutions inc. Solutions, the Takach’s hired
to accommodate rapid-fire in the housing industry, it’s and landscapeccod llc. Bonnie Serino, who has one
growth of their core company, very hard – if not impossible- thing in common with Stacia
Earth & Stone LLC, as well as to focus on the trade itself as BOnnIE SERInO – no previous knowledge or
expansion by two more recent well as the business side. experience with the business.
businesses-Concrete Solutions mAnAGeR
Inc. and LandscapeCod LLC. That’s where Michael concrete solutions inc. Bonnie grew up on the
proved very lucky when he Cape and received a business
For this young met his future wife while she Cod named her “volunteer of degree from Suffolk Univer-
30-something couple, it’s both was vacationing on the Cape. the year”. sity before working for a golf
heady and challenging times Stacia had absolutely no expe- course and more recently an
for their vertically integrated rience in either landscaping or They’ve also returned international spa company.
company, as they work to stonework. She was a commu- to Michael’s roots starting up
leverage each business to sup- nication and rhetoric graduate a parallel landscaping business “In our wildest imagina-
port one another for greater of the University of Pittsburgh after many of his hardscape tions – given our backgrounds-
cost savings and productivity. and worked in pharmaceutical customers kept asking him we could not have envisioned
sales in the Philadelphia area. for references for one. More running hardscape, landscape
Michael started in recently, the couple purchased and concrete companies,” said
the landscape industry at 14, Love conquers all, a concrete cutting, coring, Bonnie.
quickly focusing on hard- however. removal and recycling busi-
scape- retaining walls, patios Stacia and Bonnie’s
and walkways. After receiving By 2005, she had key to success is their strong
a bachelor’s degree in geology moved to the Cape to be with backgrounds in sales, hospital-
and sculpture he moved to the Michael, who appointed her ity and customer service. “ We
Cape and established Earth & Earth & Stone’s vice president have rapidly learned the tech-
Stone Hardscape Construction of sales. They subsequently nical aspects of our business-
in 2001. married. es,” said Stacia. “But our talent
for and actual love of sales and
“I love stone because Stacia brought instant customer relationships gets us
of its permanence,” he says. managerial skills to the back in the doors of clients. After
“Earth and stone are the old- office and very strong sales that, it is wrapping ourselves
est building materials used experience. She immediately around our customers and
for shelter and protection. went out building relation- understanding their needs. As
The pyramids in Egypt and ships with contractors and with any business, it’s all about
the great castles of Europe architects, while getting so relationships and delivering
are wonderful examples of involved in the community what you promise.”
that the Home Builders & Re-
20 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 modelers Association of Cape

The perfect combination of

performance and aesthetics...

In hIs own woRds Ultrex® fiberglass windows
and doors from Integrity
JIM gROnSkI
Offering the strength of Ultrex® fiberglass
Jim gronsKi and an array of sizes and options —
just what you need for your next remodeling,
construction replacement or new construction project.
WeSt CHAtHAm
For more information about using
After nearly 40 Integrity Windows and Doors contact:
years in the construc-
tion industry, I decided John Foley, A.W. Hastings & Co., 774.212.1320
to start my own remod-
eling company on Cape Cod, where we At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 21
have a vacation home.
I had been working as a carpenter,
got my degree at Penn State University
and then taught carpentry and building
construction at a technical high school in
Pennsylvania. I also helped develop exams
for entry-level and experienced construc-
tion workers.
During that time, I participated in
the local, state and national home builders
associations. I attended numerous interna-
tional builder shows, national remodelers’
shows and other trade shows, conferences
and classes. I am a past board member of
the national and Pennsylvania state build-
ers’ associations. These all helped keep me
up-to-date on new technologies, products
and trends in the home construction
industry.
Recently, I received training in
green building and remodeling. I believe
every contractor should be educated and
re-educated. You wouldn’t go to doctors
who never updated themselves for 20
years; the same with a teacher or carpenter.
What gives me a lot of satisfaction
is appreciating that a home is going to
be around for 40, 50 years or longer; and
knowing satisfied clients have improved
their homes and their quality of life.
That’s important for me. I enjoy doing
decks, bathrooms, kitchens, sunrooms;
and I have great subcontractors who work
with me.
I believe any professional should
belong to his or her local trade group. The
builders association does so much for con-
sumers as well as builders. They make cer-
tain that builders are trained and ethical.
One of the first things I did here was join
the Better Business Bureau and the Home
Builders & Remodelers Association.

FacES

“I’llSjuBst cSall” In hIs own woRds

Solution Oriented RIck ROy
Quality Minded
ricK roy
From manufacturers’ special
orders to custom work on our construction
premises, we provide contractors HARWICH
with precisely what they need
to satisfy their customers’ plans, Prior to going
budgets and timetables. into business, I was a
construction foreman
Our staff has over 100 years for the Snow Inn Corp.,
of combined knowledge owned by Dr. J. Richard Fennell who also
& experience serving owned Thompson’s Clam Bar and Wych-
our customers mere Harbor Club.
I started out like everybody else
508-896-8866 with just myself, a van, a trailer and a
handful of jobs. I lived in Chatham all my
59 Commerce Park Rd life. I was a volunteer fireman, emergency
Brewster, MA 02631 medical technician and I knew a lot of
people.
Off Freeman’s Way and I was fortunate to have started
across from Captain’s Golf Course in 1995 at the beginning of the housing
upturn.
Email [email protected] Next thing you know, I had six
people working with me and now it is up
Trusted by The Cape & Islands to 25. We do jobs from a simple bath-
Finest Builders & Remodelers room remodel and fixing the back steps to
building a multi-million dollar home. We
22 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 are very fortunate to have excellent staff
people. The company wouldn’t make it
without them.
When people build a house they
have a lot of choices and a lot of building
companies. We try to be better at commu-
nications, stay fairly priced, with quality
workmanship. We bend over backwards to
take care of the clients. There are a lot of
challenges, such as getting materials to the
jobs site, having good control of expenses,
keeping the clients informed and staying
ahead of the curve in the decisions they
have to make.
I like the actual building process
the best. It’s satisfying to say, “We added
11,000 square feet to the Liberty Com-
mons nursing home,” and “Yes, we helped
out the Marconi Museum.” I also serve on
the Board of Health and was president of
the Rotary twice and serve on the Cha-
tham Scholarship Foundation.
The Homebuilders & Remodelers
Association of Cape Cod does a good job
in keeping us up-to-date on changes in
the building code. They work so there are
no more regulations than are necessary
to provide checks and balances for the
clients, the builders and the industry.

Building
community

by Joseph santangeLo aBuTIaldgWlaEnEckE

Builders Join forces to help 2009
the youth of cape cod
• Four new storage sheds
Five new bunkhouses, each with beds for 12 campers • New handicapped
and a counselor, now line a winding trail overlooking
Lawrence pond in the YmCA’s 79-acre camp lyndon access ramp
in the pine woods of Sandwich. • New loading dock
• Shored-up lakefront gazebo

2010

• New nurse’s station and infirmary

2011

• Five new bunkhouses

2012 pLAnned

• Rehab five existing bunkhouses

The new 12-by-24-foot cabins have doors, siding and roofing - were donated Bohannon became involved with
increased the YMCA’s capacity to provide by leading national manufacturers and by the YMCA after enrolling his adopted
not just traditional camping experiences. Mid-Cape Home Centers. The bunkhous- son from Kazakhstan in programs at the
They also will be used to expand camping es were constructed using the latest high Y’s main facility on Route 132 in West
programs for all children - including those technology, energy conservation and main- Barnstable. Seeing the aging condition of
with diabetes; developmental issues such tenance-free materials and systems. buildings there, he soon found himself ap-
as autism and Asperger Syndrome; and a pointed to the Y’s building and grounds
bereavement camp for children who have Valued at more than $300,000, the committee.
lost a parent. Build Week 2011 project at Camp Lyndon
is one of the largest community-service One thing led to another, and Bo-
More children now can attend the projects in New England this year. Over hannon took the challenge of revitalizing
overnight and summer camp programs four years, the annual Build Week effort Camp Lyndon, named in memory of Lyn-
that have become synonymous with the Y has produced improvements at Camp Lyn- don Lorusso, son of one of the Cape’s ma-
nationally over the past 100 years. Camp don estimated at $1 million in value.
activities include archery, arts and crafts, jor philanthropists.
sports, games, team-building, nature hikes The force behind Build Week - pull- “It’s a great asset here,” Bohannon
and swim lessons, as well as outdoor living ing together volunteers, arranging for do-
skills, nature education, sailing and envi- nated material and coordinating about six said, while walking the Camp Lyndon job
ronmental education. months of advance planning - is Mid-Cape site. “It’s a diamond in the rough. It just
Home Centers President Doug Bohannon. needs to have attention.”
The Y also will rent out the bunk-
houses for rustic picnics, weddings, birth- ymca cape cod president stacie peugh At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 23
day parties, retreats and family reunions.
and mid-cape home centers president
What is especially remarkable is
that these cabins are the work of an all-vol- doug Bohannon RevIew pRogRess
unteer crew of more than 50 builders, con-
tractors and trades people. Students from of new bunKhouses at camp Lyndon
Cape Cod Regional Technical High School
in Harwich built the floor decks on which In sandwIch.
the structures stand.
“I can’t say enough about Mid-
“About 95 percent of the materials Cape’s leadership and about Doug,” said
and labor are donated,” said YMCA Cape Peugh, “and about the time and resources
Cod President Stacie Peugh. he’s committed. He’s gotten his people ex-
cited and set out goals to reach.”
Materials - including windows,

BuIldIng cOMMunITy

memBers of the home Builders & remodelers association of cape cod Who participated in Build WeeK:

bengeR constRuctIon | bRown, LIndquIst, fenuccIo & RabeR aRchItects | cape assocIates
cape cod Ready mIx | coastaL engIneeRIng company | eastwaRd companIes | mId-cape home centeRs

paRKsIte | Reeves fIne homebuILdIng & RemodeLIng | RogeRs and gRay InsuRance agency

During the slow winter season, Bohannon and his Mid- with lights and ceiling fans.
Cape Home Centers staff started the pre-planning for this year’s Projects already are in mind for 2012 – rebuilding five older
Build Week. Bohannon went to various vendors with a shopping
list of items needed for the project, including 30 windows, 10 Camp Lyndon bunkhouses.
doors and a truckload of roofing and siding. Mid-Cape Home Cen- “It just amazes me, these guys in this economy, here working
ters donated truckloads of lumber, pounds of nails and cartons of
construction adhesives. all week. They lose a week’s pay, and they are happy about doing
it,” said Bohannon.
Vendors contributed energy-efficient windows, fiber-cement
siding, insulated doors and 30-year architectural roofing shingles. “Many of the volunteers have been personally touched by
You won’t find 7/16-inch particle board sheathing on these cabins, Camp Lyndon and jumped at the chance to give back to this fan-
but instead high-end, water-tight, energy-efficient wall and roof sys- tastic Cape Cod asset,” said Bohannon. “I can’t tell you how many
tems that combine a wood barrier and protective coating all in one. stories we’ve heard, ‘I went to the Y.’ Guys start calling and saying,
‘I’m in.’
Build Week expanded to a full week in 2009 out of the pre-
vious single-day Build Day concept. And it keeps growing. This “Because of projects like this, we do survive. Because the
spring, it consumed three weeks. The YMCA was responsible for community sees us giving back, it gives us more business,” he added.
site preparation, drilling holes for concrete tubes supporting the
cabins and underground utility work. Then, students from Cape mId-cape home centeRs tRace Its Roots bacK to 1895, when
Tech built the wood floor decks supporting the five cabins.
29-yeaR-oLd seafaRIng foundeR captaIn oscaR nIcKeRson
The professional volunteer crews raised end walls, con-
structed front and back walls, with double-hung windows in front puRchased the KeLLey and eLdRedge LumbeR co. In chatham, LateR
and awning windows in back, as well as trim, doors and roofs. A
final step was installing cement board lap siding all around, along to become nIcKeRson LumbeR co.

mId-cape home, a dIvIsIon of nIcKeRson LumbeR co., now has

locatioNS iN WellFleet, oRleaNS, South DeNNiS, MaRtha’S

vIneyaRd and mIddLeboRo. desIgn showRooms aRe In hyannIs

and pLymouth. a dIstRIbutIon facILIty Is In south yaRmouth.

SHEPHERD & GOLDSTEIN LLP
Business Consultants and Certified Public Accountants
www.sgllp.com

The Benchmark In Professional Services® 

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All accountants SAY they provide good service, but do they keep score? We do! Here’s what our
customers had to say about us in our latest survey where our client’s rated us on a scale of 1 to 5
with 5 being the highest score:

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Referring S&G to your friends and associates…….4.56

Ask about our WRITTEN GUARANTEE, call Today at (508) 790-1979 to set up an appointment
and see how we can bring clarity of vision and a coordinated holistic approach to help you reach
your personal goals and objectives.

24 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

BuIldIng cOMMunITy

habitat for humanity
enters the retail market

habitat for Hu- hoods. Low-income families more than the volunteers, so RIcK KnIght
manity of Cape will receive help in making they become the teachers,”
Cod and its safety and energy-saving im- she added. “Some owners later christina macort and
army of hundreds of volun- provements. pick up public speaking and daughter chloe Will Be the
teers have an impressive track others go on to write about us 75th haBitat homeoWners
record. But this local affiliate of and their experiences in build- on cape cod, when theIR home
With support from Habitat for Humanity Interna- ing their own home.” Is compLeted wIth suppoRt
individuals, builders, suppliers tional is more than a builder; fRom the fedeRated chuRch
and tradesmen, the 23-year- it also is in the empowerment Habitat of Cape Cod In oRLeans next spRIng.
old organization has helped business. also has branched out with
families build 74 new Habitat Women Build teams, under Plans are in the works
homes of their own. It has also “At its core, the Habitat’s volunteer program for new homes in Barnstable,
completed many repair, reha- organization’s mission is for women who want to learn Bourne, Eastham, Mashpee,
bilitation and handicapped to eliminate homelessness construction skills and make a Orleans and other Cape towns.
access ramp projects. and substandard housing difference by building homes
Now, the local Habitat conditions worldwide,” said and communities.
organization is launching two Victoria Goldsmith, Habitat
new initiatives. This fall, a new for Humanity of Cape Cod’s foR moRe InfoRmatIon on habItat foR humanIty of
Habitat ReStore will open executive director. “But once cape cod, see WWW.haBitatcapecod.org oR caLL the
on Whites Path just off Exit homeowner partners learn to yaRmouth poRt offIce at 508-362-3559.
8 of the Mid-Cape Highway use a hammer, they soon learn habItat foR humanIty of cape cod, an ecumenIcaL
in Yarmouth. Part recycling they can do almost anything housIng mInIstRy, weLcomes new voLunteeRs, as weLL as
center and part retail store, in building their own homes. LaRge oR smaLL fInancIaL donatIons and paRtIcuLaRLy
the outlet will sell gently used It gives them a sense of pride InfoRmatIon on any buILdIng Lots that may be avaILabLe
or discontinued home-building and a feeling there is no chal- at Low oR no cost.
materials. lenge in life they can’t meet.”
The local Habitat At Home oN CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 25
affiliate is seeking builders, “As the owners build up
homeowners and dealers will- their skills, they begin to know
ing to donate items that can
be resold and put to good use,
rather being disposed of at
town transfer stations. Selling
the items to the public will
create an additional revenue
stream to support the build-
ing of new Habitat homes for
working families on Cape Cod.
Expanding on its home
building mission, Habitat for
Humanity of Cape Cod also
is starting a pilot program to
repair and rehabilitate existing
homes in targeted neighbor-

BuIldIng cOMMunITy

training Builders and other business owners hundreds of existing courses at the college
are going to WERC to improve the job or on the Internet.

for the skills of their employees. These include online courses in sus-
Individuals – from high school tainable and green technologies; certified
fiber-optic technician training in response
graduates to mid-career candidates trying to the new Open Cape broadband initia-
tive; and hazardous- material handling,
to enhance their own knowledge and job regulated by the U.S. Occupational Safety
skills - also are going to WERC. and Health Administration.

21st Together, they are helping the next For those interested in green,
generation of homebuilders, re- there are courses in planning design and
construction, geothermal, energy codes,
century modelers, Realtors, home-based efficient lighting, wind energy, solarium
businesses and tradespeople and greenhouse technology, sight design
serve more than 100,000 and energy savings.
households across the Cape’s
WeRC 15 towns – with skills in critical Courses also are available in
21st century fields ranging from real-estate-related areas such as project
management, real-estate licensing, home
green technology to broadband. appraisal and home inspection.

by Joe santangeLo WERC stands for the Workforce WERC is collaborating with the
Home Builders & Remodelers Association
Education Resource Center, located at of Cape Cod to develop professional edu-
cation courses for construction supervi-
Cape Cod Community College’s Hyannis sors. Requirements for their licenses have

Campus at 540 Main Street. It develops

customized training tailored to an indi-

vidual business, and it helps the company

find training funds. The WERC staff also

can direct companies and workers to

26 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

Building community

been changed, and courses are planned to ager for workforce education at WERC’s For inFormation, go to
help construction professionals meet the Hyannis office. “We will help them assess www.capecod.edu and click on
new license requirements. their goals and their training needs. We WERC: WoRkfoRCE EduCation.
can customize training for their staff, and the person to call at Werc is
The staff at WERC is expert in may have already done similar training for JenniFer true, 508-375-5011,
helping companies find funding that may other companies in the past.” or e-mail her at [email protected].

“If a local company wants to WERC has a proven track record
grow the business and train of setting up customized training for Cape
employees to grow the Cod businesses in fields including technol-
business, we would be the ogy, health care, food safety and English as
people for them to call.” a second language education.

Jennifer True Companies and individuals from
Cape Cod, southeastern Massachusetts,
Manager for Workforce Education Rhode Island and beyond, including
members of the military stationed as far
be available to pay as much as 50 percent away as Korea, have taken advantage of
of training costs, such as through the Mas- WERC’s services, signing up for courses
sachusetts Workforce Training Fund. here at the college or online.

“If a local company wants to grow For individual workers, WERC pro-
the business and train employees to grow vides links and support to help them find
the business, we would be the people for the right courses in construction and real
them to call,” explains Jennifer True, man- estate, as well as a broad range of other
areas, from human resources to improving
language skills.

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AT HoME on CApE Cod • FALL 2011 • 27

aRt & HomeBuilding/Remodeling

ultimatethe
in custom homes

Incorporating Cape Cod original art into building and remodeling projects

Homebuilders and remodelers StoneWork by Lew French
across the Cape are partnering
with some of the region’s
most talented and creative
artists to provide clients
with uniquely customized
interiors, exteriors and
features that celebrate
materials ranging from
metal, wood and stone
to clay, glass and even
concrete – embellished
with decorative paintings
and textiles.

no matter what materials are applied, the inspira- Not only is this marriage altering the face of homebuilding
tions and motifs almost always introduce a and remodeling, but it also is energizing the art economy - provid-
resounding Cape Cod theme and sensibility to ing newfound, entrepreneurial opportunities for scores of artists.
the projects.
Scores of artists and artisans are importing their creativity Potters like Steven and Matthew Kemp of Orleans
to floors, walls, kitchens, bathrooms, patios, stairways, fireplaces, specialize in customized sinks, tiles, lamps and mirrors for bath-
ceilings, windows, hallways and landscapes. rooms. Counterpart Gretchen McPherson of Marstons Mills
Those homebuilders, remodelers, architects and design- accents backsplashes, fireplaces and floors with her mosaic designs.
ers who are adventurously partnering with sculptors, decorative
painters, glassmakers, wood and stone workers are quickly discov- Stained glass artist Donna Mahan of Truro recycles
ering a competitive advantage in the marketplace, appealing to her materials into custom designs – including windows, architec-
clients’ desires to express themselves. tural patterns, lighting accessories, cabinet inserts and garden art.
Michael Magyar of Sandwich specializes in lighting and light
28 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 sculptures in glass, steel, stone and concrete.

Robert Jordan of Orleans, designs and forges metal, aRT & hOMEBuIldIng/REMOdElIng
combining brass, copper, stainless steel, aluminum and glass into
gates, mirrors, furniture, railings, staircases and fireplace screens. Robert S. Jordan Studio
Richard Griffin Jr. of Chatham applies much of his metalwork
to wall treatments, counter tops and furniture. It’s a long way from building dags and dregs for fishermen to working
in metal entirely on commission. Robert S. Jordan, who has been a
Dana King of Chatham and Richard Kiusalas of professional blacksmith for four decades, relies heavily on input from
West Barnstable are among a growing number of wood carvers homeowners. “I visit their house, evaluate what they want, draw it and go
and workers who are collaborating with builders to design rooms from there.”
from kitchens and libraries to baths and media rooms.
Lately, clients are asking for lots of bronze and copper pieces because
Stoneworkers such as Lew French of Martha’s Vine- they like the color and patina, he reports. Jordan’s work is “extreme
yard hand pick every stone, and then piece them together to customization. There are no two pieces totally alike, no production runs, all
create individualized fireplaces and landscapes. one-of-a-kind, labor intensive work.”

Susan Davies of Sandwich collaborates with kitchen His orleans studio produces large and small gates, mirrors, furniture,
designers like Amy Britten of Artisan Kitchens to integrate her railings, spiral staircases, plant stands, art stands, fireplace screens, three-
custom tile and fine art depicting historical maps, lighthouses, dimensional birds, whales, insects and flowers. They are fashioned from
cranberry bogs and other Cape Cod themes. many metals using modern technology such as plasma cutters and welders
to keep the costs down and prices reasonable.
The Sourcebook of Architectural & design elements features
more than 50 artists. At Home on Cape Cod will highlight now nearing 70, Jordan marvels at his perpetual learning curve. “You
four of them – their story and art – in each issue as part of a reinvent yourself every day. It’s the creativity that keeps you going.”
continuing series. Complimentary copies of the Sourcebook are
provided to professionals in the design/build field, and are sold probably his most ambitious project on the Cape was a stainless steel
to the general public at www.capeandislandssourcebook.com. platform rooftop overlooking nauset Beach, combined with a 17-foot
For more information, contact [email protected] or staircase and 75 feet of railing.. He also constructs aluminum and stainless
call 508-362-3225, ext. 521. steel staircases to replace wood ones constantly wiped away by erosion and
e winter storms.
e
“today, especially among second homeowners on the Cape, people
want something unique; something no one else has,” he says.

West Barnstable Tables Derek Oliver of Wellfleet, when he isn’t designing
sculptures that are displayed at local museums, may be collaborat-
Richard kiusalas focuses on primitive designs to create his furniture, ing with professionals like Joy Cuming of Aline Architecture
staying close to the nature of the original wood. Using antique pine, in Orleans. She has become increasingly interested in concrete
chestnut, oak and new woods, he creates kitchen islands, tops, sideboards, because of the flexibility of shape and color palette. Practically, it
hutches and cupboards. also is a strong conductor of radiant heat.

A former advertising salesman, he has been working with wood for four Most intriguing to her, a kitchen counter and sink can be
decades, turning a hobby in his garage into a business that features his work designed and fabricated holistically in cement. Cuming and Oliver
and those of a dozen other artists and artisans in his West Barnstable studio, have designed circular showers, baths and kitchens featuring
a former cranberry sorting building. concrete. In one Wellfleet home, a half bath is entirely cast in
concrete.
He describes his work as “conceptual furniture,” whether it is his original
design or a custom project guided by a customer. He works closely with These artists and dozens more are featured in a new
designers to help them realize the visions of their clients. “Sometimes, my publication, the Sourcebook of Architectural & Design
work is more art than furniture,” he says, pointing to one table that is three Elements published jointly by the Cape Cod Chamber of Com-
dimensional. He’s designed a bar counter to resemble an airplane wing. merce, the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape
“Whatever I do, I make sure to have fun and pass that on to my client.” Cod, Coastal Community Capital, Cotuit Center for the Arts,
the Cultural Center of Cape Cod, Cape Cod Museum of Art and
Kiusalas has built about 3,000 pieces of furniture in as many different the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod. It was funded in large part by
shapes and color combinations.
At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 29

aRT & hOMEBuIldIng/REMOdElIng

Stained Glass by
Christie Andresen

the Massachusetts Cultural Concrete by Derek Oliver
Council.
unique solutions to complex design chal- him and his builders, but also
“Our economy is lenges. “At one home, Christie designed a directly with his customers.
‘place based,’ driven by window and fabricated it for a bathroom
the beauty of our natural with no exterior wall,” he explained. “Her expertise gives us an edge
environment,” says Clare O’ in doing something like that. She has
Connor, projector coordi- “There was no opportunity to have vast years of experience working with
nator of the Sourcebook an outside window. But through the center glass. When we design the patterns for
and director of economic of the home, there was a light shaft cre- windows, we rely on her to really put it
initiatives for the chamber. “This ated by a cupola. What we did was design together and make it work. That is where
environment attracts primary and second a space in the bathroom for a stained-glass her role as an artisan comes in,” said
homeowners who feel a strong connection window that looks into that space under DaSilva.
to the region, reflected in the design, con- the cupola. The window introduced natu-
struction and decorating of their homes ral light into the bathroom,” said DaSilva. That combination of artistry and
and businesses.” business acumen is a key to growing col-
But that was only half the challenge. laborations among artists and builders.
O’ Connor explains that the The bathroom required privacy; so Chris- Those artists who can get the work done
Sourcebook was created as a resource tie’s stained glass had to be translucent. on time, on budget and meet the quality
for builders, architects and designers to and aesthetic standards of custom build-
connect with highly regarded local artists DaSilva said her glass art work was ers and remodelers will thrive, noted Tony
and craftspeople who create distinctive “a central element” to the home’s entire Shepley, owner of Shepley Wood Products.
custom designs. “Providing these link- design, which revolved around the space
ages helps to strengthen and build on the where light flows from the cupola. As a board member of the Home
region’s sense of place,” she said. Builders & Remodelers Association of
What impressed him most was Cape Cod, he was a strong advocate of
For example, Christie Andresen Andresen’s ability to simultaneously be an the Sourcebook. “Even though I am in
of Taqwa Glassworks in Wellfleet artist and an artisan - as well as a business the industry, I never heard of most of the
has been creating fine art glass panels for person – able to collaborate not only with
three decades. More recently, her partner-
ship with Chatham-based Polhemus Sav-
ery DaSilva Architects Builders typifies
the growing collaboration that is develop-
ing between the arts, home-building and
remodeling professions.

Her stained-glass creations have
provided architect John DaSilva with

30 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

aRT & hOMEBuIldIng/REMOdElIng

artists in the book. I was amazed at the breadth of talent. And e Susan Davies Custom Tile and Fine Art
I instantly saw the potential,” he said. “I have customers who e
constantly seek out ways to customize their homes – even to the Susan davies, who works out of her home studio in Sandwich,
extent of painting an exterior mural of a striped bass to express a receives many requests from decorators and builders for wall tile murals
passion for fishing on the Cape.” to distinguish their kitchens. She also is asked directly by homeowners and
retailers to custom paint tiles for any room – usually with a Cape Cod theme.
Thirty years ago, you would sell plain simple materials over
and over. Now, it’s no holds barred. Homeowners want to express As a former interior designer and with a husband, dale davies, who is
themselves uniquely, observed Shepley. He sees collaboration with a home builder and remodeler, she brings a strong business sense to her
artists as a true competitive advantage for builders and remodel- art. davies usually starts with plain textured tiles and then personalizes them
ers. “It’s what will set the house apart.” into scenes that have particular meaning to customers – from lighthouses to
cranberry bogs to boats or historical scenes. Some clients ask her to design
At the same time, Shepley sees the collaboration of builder tiles featuring baskets of fruits and vegetables to merge into the activities of
and artist as a reflection of Cape Cod itself. “People move here, their kitchens.
build their homes here because they love the Cape. They want to
express that passion and the values the Cape imparts throughout “It’s all about personalizing, of creating an instant heirloom that lives
their home. I see homes where the artist has helped the own- every day in the home,” she explains.
ers tie their memories and heirlooms directly into the design. It
brings memories alive.” one client wanted a map of historic plymouth above her stove in the
kitchen, along with images of the mayflower and Gurnet lighthouses flanking
That penchant and passion for the Cape is embodied in it. davies designed the tiles to merge with the sand colors of the kitchen.
the work that Dana King performed for Cape Associates in the Another client wanted an image of the first boat he sailed while at the U.S.
construction of a multi-million-dollar custom home. naval Academy.

“Dana was commissioned to do the custom kitchen cabi- She finds that her most ardent clients often are second homeowners.
netry as well as the basement bar cabinets,” said Rich Bryant of “time on the Cape is particularly precious to them. When they come here,
Cape Associates. “The interior designer, Susan Tuttle of Surround- they want to be surrounded by images that reinforce why they invested in
the Cape,” said davies.
Griffin Design Company
“In some ways, we are the frosting. But, in other ways, it is more
Richard griffin, Jr. learned some of his craft from Robert Jordan after profound. my tile helps clients express deep emotions and a sense of place.”
moving back to the Cape and Chatham in 2001, where he attended high
school before studying at the Art Institute of Boston and massachusetts ings in Orleans, wanted a nautical
Institute of Art.
theme for the bar; that’s when Dana
Builders on Cape Cod traditionally do not use a lot of metal work,
observed Griffith, who has worked hard to cultivate relationships with designed the actual bar counter as a
custom contractors such as Gable Builders in Chatham. He has built metal
furniture, kitchen pot and pan ceiling racks and exterior railings – some that handmade boat.”
mimic rope.
Not only was the boat an
For one customer, he tracked down twisted pieces of steel an inch and
a half wide for a railing, fabricating his own dies to help bend it into a rope expression of the client’s Cape
design.
Cod sensibilities in a rather unique
today, about 40 percent of his business comes directly from designers,
architects and builders. form, but it had practical value

Among his favorite projects, says Griffin, who is 36: transforming a from a construction standpoint,
client’s heirloom into a piece of furniture. one client had an 80-year-old
piece of cast iron steel she had kept from her parent’s house. She wanted to said Bryant. “We were able to
use it somehow in her new home. today, it is a coffee table.
wrap lally columns - steel encased
“metal working is such a broad-stroked craft. people don’t realize all
you can do with it.” concrete columns - in rope. Dana

made everything work within the

confines of our structural work.

As a result, his artistic contribu-

tions drew attention away from HbyanKdawrionveGnanRguagS&heTphpraordw
HVAC soffits and support col-
umns, which otherwise would
have been quite obvious.”

At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 31

PROducTS & TEchnOlOgy

at home on cape cod featuRes pRoducts and technoLogIes
beIng used by ouR membeR buILdeRs and suppLIeRs
to enhance the duRabILIty and vaLue of homes heRe.
we encouRage you to shaRe Ideas wIth us.

the maiBec When siding a house or commercial build- also comes preassembled to save time on the job site and eliminate
shingle strip ing, eastern white cedar shingles are the traditional the need for cutting and touchups. The shingle strip and corners
choice throughout Cape Cod. They are found on combine to make the finished installation efficient without losing
simple cottages and million-dollar
homes. any of the professional aesthetics on the Cape.
Maibec has also developed a system
For large exterior wall areas,
however, they can be labor inten- to make choosing shingle siding simpler and
sive to install, shingle by shingle. more consumer friendly. It starts with pre-
Now comes a solution with the new stained shingle samples that are free of charge
maibec preassembled cedar shingle and necessary to get the right color to the job
strips. Each strip is engineered with site in the shortest time possible. Recently
several shingles together, so they go launched, the maibec EXPRESS PROGRAM
up fast and still maintain the look of traditional New identifies samples for specific colors in the
England architecture. Using shingle strips can save highest demand - available from maibec’s distribution in the
up to 60 percent of the installation time. northeastern United States within 48 hours.
Once the color has been decided upon, the building itself is
The maibec shingle strips come in natural and broken down into sections to be paired with the ideal product.
a wide choice of factory-stained finishes, in both premium and “There is nothing like genuine wood,” say the experts at
select grades of wood. They include a 50 year warranty against maibec. “Eastern white cedar is very durable and requires very
wood decay, a 20 year warranty on 2 coats of solid stain including little maintenance.
7 years of coverage for labor.
foR moRe InfoRmatIon, vIsIt www.maIbec.com.
Using shingles on corners? The new maibec woven corner

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32 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

PROducTS & TEchnOlOgy

recycled glass The kitchen these These countertops
and cement countertop is one ele- tra- are among the most healthy
countertops ment that particularly ditional and environmentally responsi-
sets a home apart. A standards. ble materials on the market – 100
sleek, contemporary Available in a percent free of harmful plastics, toxic
countertop in one of variety of shades resins, and volatile organic compounds.
a variety of materi- that range from soft, The mixing of non-toxic pigments
als is among the most earth-toned neutrals to with various glass colors and sizes results
desired products today rich, vibrant colors, in IceStone’s® versatile color palette.
in a new or remodeled IceStone® surfaces are ideal There are 28 available colors, but the pal-
home. There are numer- for kitchen countertops, back ette is infinite. Custom color options are
ous new materials on splashes, bathrooms, tabletops, bar available for larger commercial projects.
the market, including tops, fireplace surrounds, conference
recycled glass and con- tables and reception areas. foR moRe InfoRmatIon, vIsIt nIcoLe
crete countertops which
stand out as both high Although IceStone® is one of the goLdman at www.ggReendesIgn.com.
style and environmen- few recycled glass and concrete counter-
tally friendly. tops made in the U.S., they have seen plen-
ty of competition crop up in the past few
IceStone®, prob- years from Europe and Asia. Brands such
ably the best known among these new as Eco by Cosentino, Vetrazzo, Curave
options, is a sustainable, durable surface and EcoTerr are equally as compelling
made with 100-percent recycled glass in and have their own styles of coloring and
a cement matrix. IceStone® slabs are cut, texture that provide a full range of options
installed, and maintained just like mined for consumers.
stone such as marble or granite and are a
great alternative. Pricing is comparable to

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At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 33

PROducTS & TEchnOlOgy

WindoW new pella designer U-factors and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
treatments technology (SHGC) ratings, which translate to about
series collection - 75-percent higher energy efficiency than
merges traditional single-pane windows. That can
energy slimshade® help save about one third on heating and
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The value proposition: Blinds,
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34 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

INTEGRITY FROM MARVIN windows PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

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WWW.AWHASTINGS.COM. PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY CONTINUED ON PG 50

Stroll down Main Street
and experience where ideas

come alive.

BECAUSE SEEING IS BELIEVING....

Main Street at Botellos • 26 Bowdoin Road, Mashpee, MA 02649 • 508-477-3132 • www.BotelloLumber.com

AT HOME ON CAPE COD FALL 2011 35

gReen

local companies that provided to this home include:

sean watts constRuctIon | faLmouth LumbeR Inc. | andeRsen wIndows | owens coRnIng eneRgycompLete®
faLmouth LumbeR KItchen & desIgn centeR | audIo vIdeo soLutIons | dRt heatIng | home eneRgy RateRs LLc

augusta pLumbIng | fendeR eLectRIc | dave wagneR custom fInIshIng | gRafton bRIggs LandscapIng

rising from the ashes

an east falmouth couple turn a tragedy into a model home

A month before they Augusta reached out to Sean Watts
of Sean Watts Construction to help him
were to be married, design and build a home that would be
both functional and energy efficient.
John Augusta received a “With the help of our builder, we evaluat-
ed what kind of energy-saving
frantic call from his fianceé. systems we wanted in our
new home - everything from
Their newly remodeled specialized framing techniques
to windows to insulation to
house was on fire. heating and cooling to the
roof and siding,” said Augusta.
Before he could race
The next step was to
home, the residence was research and hire an indepen-
dent HERS, Home Energy
totally consumed by flames. Rating System, rater for the
project, Augusta contacted
“The timing could not have been Bruce Torrey of Home Energy
more traumatic,” he recalled. “But fortu- Raters LLC, which assists
nately my fiancé, Leanne, was safe, and we contractors and homeowners
were fully insured.” achieve energy-code compli-
ance and performs energy
The wedding occurred on time; testing and audits.
and less than a year and a half later, the
Augustas live very happily in a brand new the design stage top left, the augusta
home. Not just any residence; but one home destRoyed by
that is among the most energy-efficient on In helping to design the
Cape Cod. Augustas’ new home, Torrey fIRe; Bottom left and
top right, exampLes
Augusta’s family owns Falmouth and his team of specialists
Lumber in East Falmouth. With his oF oWeNS coRNiNg’S
knowledge of building materials and
technologies and a business management applied the lessons they have eneRgycompLete
degree, John was determined to convert learned from 20 years of infra- InsuLatIon system;
a potential catastrophe into a lifetime red thermal inspections that
opportunity. On a limited budget, with detect heat loss in buildings. middle right, the
lots of know-how, he designed a three- “Our experience confirms auguSta’S NeW hoMe;
bedroom, 2-1/2 bath inspiration for any
homeowner on Cape Cod who wants to Bottom right, a
build or remodel with energy efficiency bLoweR dooR test to
and cost savings uppermost in mind.
that the most cost-effective measuRe aIRtIghtness
“We had to rip the entire house
down, including its foundation,” said Au- way to build energy-efficient and heLp Locate
gusta. “That gave us the great opportunity homes is to identify any weak LeaKage sItes.
to plan from the ground up. It was also
very important to us that we hire a local links during the design and
company that would help us from start to
finish with our project.” construction process - before

36 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 it’s too late,” says Torrey. “Pre-

construction plan analysis and

energy modeling builds an

energy profile of the home to

help determine the smartest, most cost

effective, strategies.”

Home Energy Raters LLC provided

code compliance documents, while Sean

gREEn

Watts handled all the red tape involved in the construction. They tures than any other heat source.”
both met with subcontractors to answer questions, provide train- He also installed a Dave Lennox Signature Collection heat
ing and quality assurance through performance testing.
pump, that helps keep his home warm in cold weather and cool in
Torrey contributed one more valuable component to the hot weather.
design process. He showed Augusta how to take full advantage
of the The Massachusetts New Homes with ENERGY STAR® “This was a true education for us,” said Augusta. “It takes a
Program, which provides financial incentives to help cover rating bit of time to appreciate how a ‘heat’ pump can cool.”
and certification fees, in addition to rebates for specific high-
efficiency heating, cooling and hot water systems – even electric The pump moves heat energy from one environment to an-
bulbs for the entire house. other, and in either direction. This allows the heat pump to bring
heat into an occupied space, or to take it out. In the cooling mode
insulation a heat pump works the same as an ordinary air conditioner.

After doing a little more research, Augusta learned “We have built a hybrid system,” he explained. “The heat
about a new insulation method, Owens Corning’s Energy- pump can provide heating and cooling on mild days, and the pro-
Complete®. It’s a latex-based, non-allergenic spray-foam pane gas furnace takes over on extreme days. A computer deter-
sealant that is applied throughout the house – into wall mines which is the more efficient method.”
cavities, ceiling and foundation junctions and wall and ceil-
ing penetrations – to prevent air infiltration. “The heat pump came with a healthy climate heat-recovery
ventilation system. The way houses now are so tightly air sealed, it
Within 20 minutes of its application with a specially is advisable to install a ventilation system that intakes outdoor air
designed gun, the walls and ceiling were ready for insulat- and exhausts stale indoor air without losing heat,” he said. “Did
ing material, such as fiberglass batts or blowing wool with you know that most of us spend about 90 percent or more of
the requisite R-value. our time indoors, and the average home is up to five times more
polluted than air outside, according to the U.S. Environmental
“The installers did not have to wear masks or Protection Agency.”
air-ventilation suits,” recalled Augusta. “The insulation
Other energy efficient elements of the Augusta’s home include:
is totally safe. It also meant that other sub-
contractors were able to work on the house • a rinnai tankless on-demand water heater. It only heats
simultaneously.” water when you need it, saving energy by not heating and
reheating the same tank of water. When opening a hot water
Not only has the EnergyComplete® sys- tap or starting the dishwasher, it recognizes the need for
tem contributed to significant heating savings hot water and starts the heating process. The temperature
in the winter, but it has reduced cooling bills of the incoming water is used to calculate how much heat
in the summer by reducing the infiltration of the burners must produce to deliver water at the desired
humid outdoor air. temperature. When demand ceases, the unit shuts down and
uses no energy, waiting until more hot water is needed.
EnergyComplete® also qualifies for
money-saving credits and incentives from a • andersen double pane windows with low-e smart-sun glass.
spectrum of sources including LEED® for Above and beyond the double pane for energy efficiency, the
Homes, the NAHB National Green Building Certification, low-E Smart-Sun glass dramatically reduces water spots and
Environments For Living® and ENERGY STAR® Qualified New minimizes dirt build-up. It also reduces sound penetration
Homes. and protects from damaging UV rays.
The last program, offered by the U.S. Environmental Pro-
tection Agency (EPA), is available to homes that include energy- Augusta also chose fiber cement siding, hardwood flooring,
saving features that make them 20-percent to 30-percent more Electrolux EnergySTAR® appliances, LED electric fixtures and a
efficient than standard homes. Control4® home-automation system to manage his lighting and
Ken Hibbard was Augusta’s Owens Corning representative. temperature - both at home and away - as well as security. “It con-
“Space heating and cooling account for almost half of a home’s trols eight rooms from anywhere, including by my iPad or even
total energy use,” he explained. “The remainder is used for water my phone,” he explains.
heating, lighting, electronics and appliances. Air infiltration
through a home can account for as much as 35 percent of that
residence’s total energy use.”
When all the insulation was installed, Augusta conducted
blower tests on everything from doors to ducts in order to test for
any air infiltration.

heating and cooling postscript
Now that the Augustas are comfortably in their new home,
Augusta was intent on natural gas, but his neighborhood they already are seeing the rate of return on their energy-efficient
was not hooked up for it. Instead, he chose an efficient propane investments. Their new home is 25-percent larger than their
heating unit. “The new, highly efficient propane furnaces are former one; yet, their total energy bill is running significantly less.
about 92-94 percent efficient; ours reached 98 percent,” he said. And they are not done with their efforts. Their roof was designed
“They cost about 50 percent-less per BTU to run than electric or to support solar panels when the budget allows.
wood, and they supply warm air at consistently higher tempera-
At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 37

gREEn ThE You weigh the choice – toxic…non-
gREEn toxic? Same price, great design options,
upgrading your home BlOg durable and long-lasting. Everything from
investment through the paint on your walls to the insulation
smart remodeling by nIcoLe goLdman in your walls can be less toxic and create
better air quality.
The current housing market is When was your last energy audit?
changing the landscape of home owner- We begin with a basic assessment It’s not about green building; it’s
ship in ways we could not have foretold and add diagnostic testing to see where about smart building. Homeowners who
even five to 10 years ago. In contrast to we can plug holes, and save energy. Why are looking to maintain and increase the
the trading up and relocating frenzy of the waste time putting in a new kitchen if value in their homes are seeing a return
past decade, homeowners now are finding your walls are drafty and you can’t enjoy on their investments using these criteria
themselves hunkering down and putting sitting in the dazzling new room? - from immediate energy savings to lower
some smart money into their current Smart remodeling is about making medical costs and faster home sales.
homes. informed choices about energy, but also
about the materials you are going to use. The added value of green elements
The smartest improvement ideas With the emergence of green building in such as recycled countertop materials
are focused on energy efficiency, which the past few years, we have an impres- are immediate draws and market well to
translates to cost savings and greater sive selection of flooring, tiling, counters, informed consumers. Realtors, as well, are
comfort. My first question to homeown- cabinetry, lighting, carpeting and window taking notice and getting trained to iden-
ers - whether they come to see me about a treatments made with non-toxic materi- tify these benefits for their customers.
new kitchen or refurbishing the flooring - als, with no formaldehyde or other VOC’s
concerns the bottom line on their home’s which can cause innumerable health prob- >> to learn more about staging and marketing
energy performance. lems for young and old. green homes, join www.ggreendesign.com for a
professional workshop on tuesday, october 25.
Realtors are welcome.

©2011 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

I can relax. custom closets

Everything is finally where Call for FREE Design Consultation
it’s supposed to be.
Take back control of your life 800-617-2567
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murphy beds laundry rooms entertainment centers and much more...

38 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 www.closetfactory.com/boston 55

gREEn

proper planning: not certain what the ground underneath cooling effect you require?
them may offer besides sand. I’m not advocating any specific ap-
a case history for making
It’s not about the system. It’s about proach; but I am advocating proper plan-
energy decisions the house design and siting that should ning and design, plus the need to consider
determine what kind of heating and cool- use, function, location and budget before
A man and a woman walk into a ing they should be thinking about for their declaring the type of energy system you
design center, and the man says, “What do new home. will install.
you know about geothermal?”
There are all kinds of buzz words Before bringing in the big guns,
This couple is going to build a new that get bandied about when it comes take a moment to think about how you
house. But before there are any plans, to sustainable design -geothermal, solar, will use your new home, how many rooms
before they know how the house will be photo-voltaic, ground-source heat pumps. will be occupied, what options you have
sited, before they know how the walls will But, when you are planning a building or to tighten up the house and rely less on
be built or the basement insulated, they remodeling project, it’s important to un- the heating system. Make some notes and
want to talk “geothermal.” derstand your needs as a homeowner - and then seek out professionals who can guide
the options available for the type of house you while keeping your goals in mind.
I’ve got to say, I don’t know why. you plan to build, as well as how you plan
Perhaps they heard about geother- to live in it. >> Check out our upcoming energy Workshops,
mal heating from a friend; perhaps they which help you separate the hype from the heat.
read about it in the newspaper. It does Will you be there year-round? Do Visit www.ggreendesign.com/workshops for the
have a certain ring, but I’m not sure it will you want to invest in a major cooling next scheduled opportunity.
have anything to do with their house. For system that will be used only a few days
starters, they are looking only to build on the hottest of summer days? Or do
about a 2,500-square-foot residence. It you enjoy the sea breezes, and some low
will be very close to the water, and they’re overhangs could provide the ambiance and

TrimBoard
Synthetic Millwork

“Your vision and our custom fabrication
capabilities can be joined together to provide
outstanding architectural elements for both
commercial and residential projects.
The nal product will look like wood but
will not have the inherent problems associated
with using wood on exterior projects.”

David W Townsend, President

■ TrimBoard, Inc. Contact David W Townsend @ (413) 575-4455 or [email protected]

At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 39

tRends

light trend2s 11

The days of clunky chan- Here are some others trends for 2011:
deliers and bulky wall
sconces are past. Sleek flat finishes. Flat/ matté simplicity. Many of the
and refined lighting is the
new trend. Hand-blown glass lighting finishes, most popular chandelier
and drum-style pendants with particularly white and and fixture designs will be
thin, flush mounts perfectly black, are in vogue. transitional styles, with
accent the modern, yet con- White chandeliers, lamps simplified traditional
temporary décor of today. and other lighting fixtures silhouettes. This timeless
lend an ethereal antique lighting trend is perfect
LED products have touch to the home. Flat for those who wish to
been around for more than black, bronze, chrome create a “clean and classic”
a decade, but they are and polished nickel are feel, and
growing increasingly popular very popular, especially on don’t plan on
as they become more stylish. the Cape. changing their
They significantly reduce lighting fixtures
operating costs, notes Erin distressed looks. There very often to
Engelkemeyer, residential accommodate
lighting manager at Granite has been an influx of the latest
City Electric. furniture and accessories trends.
with an antiqued/
The global economic distressed feel. Now, Wireless
crisis has taught consumers to the trend is swinging
seek more affordable ways to toward lighting with controls. They
maintain their lifestyles, she finishes designed to look
said. Technology has always antiqued, as well as a let you have
made it easier to choose clever vintage influence in many lighting in
energy-saving alternatives, styles. Vintage is in. remote or hard-
while making use of natural to-reach areas,
light, which fits well into the The organic look. This such as table
natural décor look that is centerpieces,
popular at this time. can be a strong option if lounge areas,
you’re looking to create and trees,
a soothing “feng shui” without the
or even an international need for
decor. Look for fixtures or an external
lamps with “raw”natural power source
fabrics (like rattan), or running
or naturally-occurring expensive and
elements like shell or clumsy cables
stone. and wires.

40 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

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We would be happy to assist you on your next project
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design character: Recessed lighting,

standard lamps, and track lighting will
compete with light fixtures with highly
designed character. There will be a mixture
of shapes, hues and bulbs. Recessed
lighting still is very popular but the
aperture of 6 inches is way out of style.
Smaller fixtures such as 3-inch and 4-inch
round and square in trendy finishes such
as bronze, nickel and chrome are very
popular.

foR moRe LIghtIng tIps and tRends, vIsIt

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At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 41

Wide selection of Green & money
GreenGuard® Certified products!

We bring custom Renter’s insurance
window coverings to you!
a small investment
Shutters • Draperies • Wood Blinds for a potentially
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42 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011
have renter’s most renters can get ing the risks
insurance, you covered by

will promptly comprehensive coverage for a renter’s poli-
receive a few hundred dollars per year, cies, this is a
depending on where they live.
check that low cost for
covers either the potential
the replace- benefits.

ment costs Before

for the stolen speaking with

items or the current value of the items- an agent about renter’s insurance, look

depending upon which type of insurance around your house or apartment and take

policy you’ve purchased. an inventory of items you would need to

Maybe you believe there is little replace in the event of a catastrophe. Take

risk of a burglary in your geographic area, note of high value or difficult-to-replace

but what about the risk of fire? Fires strike items such as antiques, furs, jewelry, or

randomly and can begin in electrical wir- expensive art. Before you get a policy

ing over which you have no control. It’s or immediately thereafter, you should

unpleasant to contemplate, but you could record information on all your high value

come home to find that everything you items, including details about the make,

own has been destroyed. With renter’s model, serial number, age, and costs (both

insurance, you would have a check in hand purchase and current replacement). It may

quite soon to begin refurnishing your life. also help to have photos of these items for

Yet another scenario for which identification purposes.

renter’s insurance can be of enormous A basic policy usually pays only for

benefit is personal liability. If a visitor is the actual cash value of your items at the

injured in your home, for example, by fall- time they were lost. In other words, they

ing down the steps, you could be liable for would be valued not at what you paid for

her medical bills. Renter’s insurance would them originally or what it would cost to

cover this liability. replace them, but at their actual value as

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you would be reimbursed for the current www.shawwoodworking.com
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to you to decide which type of coverage- At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 43
actual value or replacement cost-best fits
your needs and budget.

Like most other insurance policies,
your renter’s policy will have deductibles.
A deductible is an amount of loss you will
have to absorb yourself before receiving
any money from the insurance company.
For example, let’s say you have a policy
with a $500 deductible. You have cameras
you bought for $2,000 several years ago.
If you have replacement-cost coverage and
the cameras are lost in a fire, you would
receive a check for $1,500 from the insur-
ance company. Of course, you can lower
your insurance premium by accepting a
higher deductible, but this means if there
is a loss, you must absorb more of it from
your own pocket.

Renter’s insurance usually does not
cover damage from floods or earthquakes,
but you may be able to get endorsements
for these and other “acts of God.” An
endorsement extends the perils covered
by your policy. Obviously, you must pay an
extra premium for the extra coverage.

Be sure to discuss any special high-
value items, such as antiques, furs, and
jewelry with your insurance agent, since
you may need extra coverage for these.

As mentioned, a basic renter’s
policy includes liability coverage should
someone be injured in your rented home
or apartment. As with car insurance, there
is a per-incident limit on this coverage,
and you should make sure this is high
enough to protect your assets.

souRce: RogeRs & gRay InsuRance agency.

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44 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

Remodel

mission:
organization

maximizing an exampLe of how a desIgn becomes ReaLIty.  pIctuRed
space – from
multi-purpose above Is a queen-sIze waLL bed Located In an extRa
rooms to closets
to garages BeDRooM that FuNctioNS aS the clieNt’S oFFice.  File

oOver the next 15 years, cabInets act as nIghtstands

thousands of second home- A recent project for a Cape Cod client typifies the trend. and decoRatIve gLass above
owners will be trading in their This couple was moving from Hingham to their much LIghtens the LooK foR dIspLay. 
suburban residences for full-
time living on the Cape. This smaller summer home, which they had been using primarily on a myRIad of haRdwaRe and
trend already is underway, and weekends. While they remodeled their kitchen and added a ga- gLass optIons woRK towaRds
in many cases, it means moving rage, most of their other decisions involved creating multi-purpose
into smaller houses. spaces – from closets to a spare room. peRsonaLIzIng the LooK.

That’s where specialists Miller converted the spare room into an office by day and a
like Laurie Miller come in. She bedroom by night. “I built a wall bed that requires only about 18
helps clients find creative space inches from the wall, flanked by filing cabinets that look like night
while downsizing. Among her tables and display shelves. A free floating desk shaped like a Par-
most requested projects: maxi- sons table is moved into a corner when the wall bed comes down.”
mizing closets; designing multi-
purpose rooms that serve as Another client of Miller’s has two grandchildren. She de-
home offices and guest bed- signed a multi-purpose room featuring a double wall bed. “They
rooms; expanding storage space lose virtually no space most of the time, but can also accommodate
in garages; hiding entertain- their grandchildren for an entire summer.”
ment centers in living rooms.

“On the Cape, we are
seeing many clients who still
want to accommodate visits
from friends and family, but
also wish to downsize, reflect-
ing their empty-nest lifestyles,”
says Miller, who works for the
Closet Factory.

At Home oN CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 45

REMOdEl o TOP unIT:  an enteRtaInment centeR In
faLmouth heIghts desIgned In whIte
It’s not always a matter of downsizing. Sometimes, it’s cre- meLamIne wIth bead-boaRd bacKIng;
atively discovering far more livable space within cramped rooms. theRmofoIL  RaIsed-paneL dRaweR and
dooR fRonts;  and a soLId mahogany
A North Falmouth client wanted to transform a small base-
ment into a guest suite overlooking cranberry bogs and a spring-fed cLeaR-fInIshed counteR aLL fIt
pond. “We wanted to create an environment that we could fully peRfectLy Into thIs cape getaway.
utilize without having to retreat to the upper level of our home for
any necessities other than meals,” explained the client.  
MIddlE unIT:  a custom factoRy-paInted
Miller designed a Murphy bed that blends in with other
built-ins, along with a customized closet system. “We did not have unIt gave thIs pRovIncetown cLIent
a lot of space; what she provided more than tripled what conven- the “asIan-InspIRed” space they weRe
tionally existed,” the client said. LooKIng foR In theIR bedRoom,
wIthout oveRpoweRIng the Room. 
The North Falmouth couple interviewed several space-sav- the paInt was matched to the
ing designers. “We discovered there is a tremendous difference in exIstIng tRIm In the bedRoom.
products, quality and options that ultimately makes all the differ-  
ence in comfort and long-term sustainability.” BOTTOM unIT:  thIs smaLLeR summeR

Miller presented many options, enabling her clients to make home Is no pRobLem foR weeKend vIsItIng
well-informed decisions. “She brought to light not only things from by gRandchILdRen who shaRe thIs
a practical, but also aesethetic point of view,” said her client, who
is a Realtor. doubLe twIn waLL bed that functIons as
a buReau and enteRtaInment unIt when
Miller’s favorite projects involve home offices. “A lot of peo- not In use.  made of whIte meLamIne
ple can buy a desk anywhere, but they are limited to how that desk is wIth theRmofoIL  dooRs and dRaweRs,
designed. We build that desk based on a client’s preferences and be- a heavy cRown to compensate foR the
haviors (are they right handed or left-handed?), as well as the room’s sIze of the unIt and mahogany bead-
capacity. We customize their space so everything is where they want boaRd bacKIng to compLement the unIt.
it to be, rather than adapt to an existing piece of furniture.”

“It’s really im-
portant to get a client to
tell us what they want.
If it’s a closet, we want
to see their clothes, get
a sense of how impor-
tant shoes or sweaters
are to them. If it is a
multi-purpose room, we
want to see how the en-
tire home is decorated,
discuss personal style.”

Equally impor-
tant is to understand
their budget. “If they
budget $2,000, this is
what they can have for
that amount of money,”
explains Miller. “There
are countless combina-
tions and permutations
that can go into a space
saving solution.”

LauRIe mILLeR Is

senIoR desIgneR foR

the cLoset factoRy.

she can be Reached

at LauRIe.mILLeR@

cLosetfactoRy.com

46 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

VieWpoint

kEEP OuR BuIldIng
cOdES unIFORM

For more than three decades, Massachusetts cities extending to fire suppression
and towns have used one uniform building code that sprinKlers in homes
applied to construction anywhere from Provinc-
etown to Sandwich and west to the Berkshires. Beyond energy conservation, a proposal also is

The uniform code replaced a hodge-podge of local under consideration to allow towns to adopt a separate

codes that varied from town to town and created uncer- stretch fire-safety code, requiring automatic fire suppres-

tainty for builders and homeowners about which rules to sion sprinklers to be built into new homes - but only in

follow for home construction, additions and renovations. those communities that adopt the regulation.

Now, every few years the uni- Together, the added energy and

form Massachusetts building code fire requirements would increase the

is updated. Builders and remodelers What may look like a cost of a typical home construction on
good idea at first glance,
attend workshops to be certain that Cape Cod by $10,000 or more, accord-
they comply with the latest require- ing to local builders.
ments.
Further, another stretch code

But Massachusetts has started mandating more energy idea is to allow towns to mandate fire-
moving away from a single building resistant plywood or sheet rock to be

code by encouraging towns to adopt a conservation in some towns, installed under floor joists to slow any
“stretch” energy code amendment, as fire in the basement from spreading

a local option. actually is a step backwards. into the first floor living area.
What may look like a good idea Under the statewide building

at first glance, mandating more energy It takes massachusetts back code, modern homes already have be-
conservation in some towns, actually come less vulnerable to fires and fire-

is a step backwards. It takes Massa- to pre-1975 days, when related fatalities. From 1986 to 2005,
chusetts back to pre-1975 days, when there were 561 fatal fires in one- and

confusion was common when it came confusion was common two-family residences in 213 Massa-
to home construction or renovation. chusetts communities, according to

What applied in my town did not ap- when it came to home a statewide fire incident report. But,
ply in yours. during that 20-year period, only 20

Now, towns such as Mash- construction or renovation. fatalities were reported in homes built
pee have adopted a “stretch” energy after 1975 when the first state building
What applied in my town
amendment above the statewide did not apply in yours. code went into effect.
building code, thereby requiring In response to the growing
new homes to be built up to 35-per-
cent more energy efficient than in number of stretch proposals, a legisla-
tive committee is considering a law to

other communities. Others towns on prohibit any further stretch code pro-

Cape Cod are considering the energy visions from being adopted in Massa-

amendment as well. Making a house super-energy efficient chusetts. We support that legislation and encourage you

always is an option for each homeowner; but increasing to contact your state senators and representatives. Urge

some towns’ standards means higher costs for everybody them to maintain our already strong statewide building

building there. code uniform throughout Massachusetts and keep already

Under a stretch energy code, homeowners and very high construction costs from rising further.

home builders not only must meet higher standards un-

der a Home Energy Rating System (HERS), but then have pLease suppoRt massachusetts house bILL no. 1751,

the home tested by an independent, third-party, certified an act ReLatIve to LocaL optIon appRovaL of

HERS rater. That includes a pressure test of heating ducts buILdIng code amendments, sponsoRed by

for leaks and a blower test in the front door opening to Rep. davId t. vIeIRa (R-faLmouth) and

determine whole-house air leakage. Rep. chRIstopheR waLsh (d-fRamIngham).

At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 47

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F: 508.444.6472 F: 508.477.4815
www.distinctiveprops.com www.maffeilandscape.com

owning a home on Cape Cod comes with great rewards maffei Landscape Contractors is celebrating our 20th year in
and responsibilities. That’s why discerning residents with high business. our growth is due largely to our mission statement: “to
expectations call upon distinctive property Services to help constantly exceed each customer’s expectations, while setting the
maintain the beautypantone3025M and safety of their Cape Cod home, industry standard for quality craftsmanship and professionalism.”
inside and out. Because it’s not just a getaway; it’s an investment.
Concierge services include seasonal openings and closings, winter We train our employees rigorously to become master Landscape
storm readiness, local alarm contact, landscaping, housecleaning, craftsmen. We inspire them to learn and grow with a dedication
general home maintenance, rental turnover services, condomini- and pride. each member of our team - from our field crews to our
um association management, building and remodeling. providing administrators - is steeped in a corporate ethic of discipline and
the peace of mind you deserve from a company you trust. customer service, where responsibility, respect, and integrity are
core values.

JIM gROnSkI haMIlTOn
cOnSTRucTIOn hOMES

Po Box 167 Po Box 1224
west chatham, ma 02669 hyannis, ma 02601
P: 508.945.3968 p: 508.771.3919
c: 717.870.6683 www.hamiltonhomes.net
www.jimgronskiconstruction.com
[email protected] Hamilton Homes, Inc. has been building and remodeling
residences in Southeastern massachusetts and Cape Cod
Jim Gronski Construction is dedicated to doing quality for homebuyers who seek style, comfort, quality and value. our
work on your home. With over 40 years in the construction attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensure that our
industry, I specialize in all types of remodeling including bathrooms, clients’ needs are fully met. We take great pride in opening the
decks, kitchens, interior and exterior renovations and window window of opportunity to the American dream.
replacements. We work on one project at a time from start to
completion, assuring the highest quality control and efficiency. We have twice been the recipient of the “Builder of the Year
Award from the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape
mA Construction supervisor License # - Cs 101345 Cod”, as well as a Home Builder of the Year nominee from the
mA Home Improvement Contractor # - 158550 massachusetts Home Builders Association.

48 • At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011

RESOuRcE dIREcTORy

TM If you want to spend more time growing
your business, and less time worrying about the
EaSTERn PROPanE energy required to run it, please consider eastern
3 new venture drive propane the first resource for your next project.
south dennis, ma As the preferred energy vendor in new
p: 800.700.7317 england for nearly 80 years, eastern has been
serving cape cod meeting the needs of local builders, contractors
contact: mike Lafortune and remodelers since 1932. eastern is a leading
[email protected] supplier with reliable technologies, facilities,
www.eastern.com delivery systems, superior product and service
capabilities. From concept through construction
and closing - we’ve got you covered:

• temporary Heat
• Community or metered systems
• Underground tank Installations
• pool Heat
• High efficiency Home Heating Appliances

proud Sponsor of the HBRACC
2011 nailbangers Golf tournament

hOME IMPROVEMEnT HISCC was founded in 1977 and has
SPEcIalISTS served thousands of customers on Cape
25 Iyannough Road, (Rt. 28) Cod and Southeastern massachusetts.
hyannis, ma 02601 many of our customers are repeat clients
p: 508.775.2815 who have developed a trust based on the
positive experience they have had with us.
www.hiscc.net That positive experience is: professionalism,
Quality, timeliness, and Value Added.
The Home Improvement This is the foundation upon which HISCC has
Specialists ‘AdVAntAGe’ built its business. It is no wonder why so many
of our clients have hired us back into their
homes three, four, or more times. We believe
it is our dedication to serving our clients’
needs that nurtures a lasting relationship.
We never forget we are working in your home.

Baths • Kitchens • Finished Basements
Additions • garages • Commercial

JOycE landScaPIng Joyce Landscaping, Inc. is a full service, year-
round landscaping company that has been
Joyce Landscaping, Inc. meeting the needs of residential clients on
68 flint street Cape Cod and Southeastern massachusetts for
Marstons Mills, Ma 02648 over a decade.
P: 508.428.4772
The company’s reputation is built on its
www.joycelandscaping.com commitment to the timely execution of quality
work.

From custom design to comprehensive
installation, our experienced and knowledgeable
staff will create a landscape that provides a
functional, pleasing and personal environment.
We also offer complete full-season maintenance
services to keep our clients’ landscape
investments looking their best. our certified
horticulturists will create radiant color and our
turf professionals will keep our customers’ lawns
green and healthy year-round.

At Home on CApe Cod • FALL 2011 • 49

PROducTS and TEchnOlOgy contInued fRom pg 35

Building With Propane is already a For additions, basement re- It’s a simple principle:
propane popular fuel with homeown- modeling or an entirely new home, lowering the thermostat
radiant heatingers for cooking, fireplaceradiant in-floor heating may be the while you are away from
smartinserts and gas burning logs.most economic and comfortable home saves fuel, money and
thermostatstechnology. carbon emissions.
Now, whole home
energy packages fueled by Radiant heating concen- What if you could
propane are available for trates the heat near the floor where adjust your thermostat from
new construction, efficiency you and your family can benefit your cell phone or computer,
upgrades and environmental from it. It works with any type of so the heat is just right when
retrofits. floor covering. It is ideal for instal- you arrive home? What if you
lations in concrete slabs in lower have a seasonal home on the
New high-efficiency levels, basements and garages. Cape and want to check if the
appliances make propane a heat is operating to keep the
cost-effective solution for Because radiant heat doesn’t water pipes from bursting?
all home energy needs, from use blowers, it doesn’t circulate
home heating to hot water dirt, dust, pollutants or allergens New technology is
and clothes drying - not just throughout the home -- a benefit here to manage your home’s
cooktops and ovens that al- for allergy sufferers. comfort from just about any-
low you to prepare meals like where at any time with a single wireless
a chef and sit by a fireplace that leaves no Unlike forced air heat, it device.
soot or ash residue. reaches every corner of the house. One example is the ecobee Smart
The new propane units prove to be It especially takes the chill out of Thermostat. Touch the “quick save” but-
less costly to operate, especially compared tiled kitchen, bathroom and lower
with electric heat, electric hot water heat- level floors. ton and your thermo-
ers and electric clothes dryers. Radiant stat will automatically
Tankless hot water heaters, in- heat can be set your system to
cluding those manufactured by Rinnai, more economi- conserve energy and
fueled by propane are drawing increasing cal, reducing save money.
consumer attention. They operate only heating bills
when hot water faucets are turned on, and as much as 40 the wIfI enabLed ecobee
they do not consume fuel to keep a tank percent. And SMaRt theRMoStat’S SiMPle
of water hot at all times, as conventional conserving en- touch scReen pRogRammIng
water heaters do. ergy is good for and peRsonaLIzed web poRtaL
The very latest propane technology the environ- maKes eneRgy savIng sImpLe.
for residential and small business use is ment.
a combined heat and power source all in “Radiant Or access your ecobee Smart Ther-
one. It generates both heat and electricity heating operates by running warm water mostat through a personal and secure web
with a single device. through plastic tubing under any type of portal. You can manage all aspects of the
Efficient propane technology also floor covering,” said Jason DeForest, own- Smart Thermostat from anywhere there is
helps builders and homeowners earn er of South Shore Heating & Cooling, Inc. an Internet connection. A simple registra-
points toward National Green Building “That includes carpet, wood, slate, tile, tion process helps set up your web portal
Standards. Propane is clean, nontoxic, effi- linoleum as well as concrete. This makes it in a matter of minutes, with no annual fee.
cient and gives off low emissions and helps extremely versatile, and it enhances many
maintain indoor environmental quality. It interior design and flooring options.” The ecobee Smart Thermostat
is domestically produced, as 95 percent “Radiant heating is concealed under will also alert you automatically if there
of propane used in the United States is the floor for an aesthetically pleasing is a problem with your system. A weather
produced in North America. look, and it eliminates any concerns about button even provides the latest weather
furniture or drapes blocking heating vents forecasts for your area.
foR moRe InfoRmatIon, or baseboard heating.”
“This is the latest way to manage
vIsIt www.easteRn.com. foR moRe InfoRmatIon, vIsIt www. your heating and cooling expenses, and it
is especially ideal for people who divide
southshoReheatIngcooLIng.com their time between two houses,” said Jason
DeForest, owner of South Shore Heating
& Cooling, Inc.

foR moRe InfoRmatIon, vIsIt www.

southshoReheatIngcooLIng.com

50 • At Home oN CApe Cod • FALL 2011