Ice Dams & What To Do!
February 1, 2011
During a snow winter many homes are plagured by ice dams.
An ice dam forms when the heat from your home escapes into your attic and melts the snow on your roof. The water will then trickle down your roof until it reaches the cold of an overhang, which it then freezes. Over time the Ice will get thicker and thicker which will form an ice dam. The ice dam is a small area that will hold water, which if it gets large enough it can back up under the shingles and into your home.
The most common method to fix ice dam is to do a little Waetherization to you attic. Sealing Air leaks between the warm interior and the attic is the first on the list. Then you will likely want to add insulation to your attic to help keep the heat in your home and not your attic. An additional step to be done it to add additional ventilation to your attic to help keep the temperature in your attic, below freezing.
For any questions on Ice Dams, Weatherilzation, or Insulation for your home, Contact Modern Homes, Inc.
Homebuyer Tax Credit continues for U.S. military personnel
July 22, 2010
Take advantage of the homebuyer tax credit extension for members of the military in one of the best times to buy in years!
Who qualifies for the military homebuyer tax credit extension?
Members of the uniformed services, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community who served on qualified official extended duty service outside the U.S. for at least 90 days during the period beginning after Dec. 31, 2008 and ending before May 1, 2010.
How much is the credit?
First-time buyers receive up to a credit of $8,000. Long-time homeowners receive up to a credit of $6,500.
What is the new deadline for using the tax credit?
Eligible homebuyers must enter into a binding contract to buy a principal residence on or before April 30, 2011. The taxpayer then has until June 30, 2011 to close on the purchase.
Which properties are eligible?
Any single-family home (including condos, co-ops, townhouses) that will be used as a taxpayer’s primary residence.
Contact Modern Homes, Inc. for more details. If you have specific further questions or need further assistance, please contact a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service.
Simonton Replacement Window Incentive
July 16, 2010
Looking to replace the windows in your home? Now may be the time to upgrade the the premium Simonton Reflections 5500 series windows. Here are a few reasons why!
1) Recieve a free upgrade to Low E 366 and also to the Super Spacer System (which is an upgraded glass spacer system). (limited time offer)
2) Receive $150 credit for your 2010 tax preparation @ HR Block with an eligible purchase.
3) Receive your Energy Tax Credit!
For any questions on Simonton Replacement Windows, Contact Modern Homes, Inc.
Get your Energy Tax Credit, while it lasts!
July 1, 2010
You can receive up to $1500.00 tax credit for eligible upgrades to your home.
You can upgrade the efficiency of your home and save money in the long term on your utility bills and receive a Federal Tax Credit for completing the upgrade.
Items would include HVAC, Insulation, Doors & Windows, Water Heaters & Roofing. There are other items eligible, including solar upgrades that are eligible for the credit.
Review the Energy Star website for tax credit @ http://www.energystar.gov/taxcredits or Contact Modern Homes, Inc. for any questions regarding eligible upgrades to your home.
Foam Insulation
April 15, 2010
When someone says “Green” or “Energy Star” there are a lot of things that most people think. Many are not sure exactly what it all means but most want to lower their energy cost/usage. When someone refers to insulation most think of the traditional insulation methods of batt insulation or blown in insulation for your attic.
Batt insulation can be effective when installed correctly with proper caulking. A typical 2×4 wall can achieve an R-13 or R-15. Most attics are blown in to achieve an R-38 or R-50.
The most common energy efficient methods today would be a sprayed in foam insulation. There are a few options for this, the first being a Closed Cell Foam. This adds rigidity to a wall and ensures all gaps and crevices of walls including around outlets etc. are completely sealed. Closed Cell Foam is typically installed 3″ thick in a 2×4 wall achieving an R value of R-18.6. Open cell is also a popular method due to cost savings and will achieve an R value of R-12.6. Even with slightly less R value than a batt it still adds significant energy efficiency due to the sealing of all gap a creating an air tight home.
Another popular method is to add an inch of closed cell foam and then installing the balance of the cavity with blown in fiberglass insulation. This option provides the air-tight seal at a more reasonable cost.
Spray foam’s ability to create an air-tight seal for your home is the most important factor in creating an energy-efficient, comfortable, and healthy home.
Contact Modern Homes, Inc. for any questions or to have our specialist review what may be best for you.
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