Answers

You’ll find answers to the questions we hear most often right here.

ASK ME A QUESTION.

How can I tell if my home needs more insulation? The insulation has gaps, is uneven or has been trampled by service people.

I live in a house built just 3 years ago. Should I be concerned about energy leaks? Yes, because building code standards up to this point do not include energy efficient standards.

I’m afraid to find out all that’s wrong with my house. I understand. First step is to have an assessment. Then we can separate truth from fear and set out a step-by-step approach to fit your budget. When you know exactly what’s going on, it’s much easier to make the right decisions.
 

What are the three most common problems you see in local homes? Air leaks from windows, doors and utility penetrations; leaks from the air conditioning duct system; lack of proper insulation.

My home is cold and clammy in the summer and I can see moisture collecting where it shouldn’t. If your air conditioner frequently cycles on and off, these are signs that the HVAC equipment is too big for your house. But before you talk about a replacement, have an audit and make sure your building envelope and ducting are up to standard. Only then can testing tell you the proper size HVAC unit your home needs. In many homes, we’re discovering that this unit is too big by as much as 50%.

What is the best kind of new window to get? The key to new windows is the installer. This is especially important in a retrofit because it takes extra time to make sure the windows are plumb, square and sealed.

What’s most important to know about my home’s foundation? It must be dry. If there is water or condensation anywhere around your foundation or in your crawl space, you’re likely to have mold and airborne pollutants.

How do I make sure my contractor won’t disappear without completing his job? I tell people to withhold 15% of the contractor’s fee until I’ve done a follow-up energy audit. This gives you a “performance analysis” that proves whether the work has achieved the precise result you want.
 

I’m a good do-it-yourselfer. Why would I need your services? A makeover is a process. You need to follow the process or you can make your problems worse.

My home’s indoor air quality is poor. What’s the likely first step to improvement? First you need to stop the infiltration by caulking, weatherizing and sealing leaks. Then seal the duct system; then improve your insulation.

Does recessed lighting affect my home’s energy efficiency? Yes, recessed lighting is a primary and common source of air leaks. They need to be sealed.

Are there green alternatives to wood studs? There are a number of methods that replace wood studs and provide excellent insulation and energy efficiency. These methods are significantly better but they are costly.

How do you take a “whole-house” approach with a home that’s already been built? Testing, analysis and application of the process describes a step-by step method by which you achieve your whole house goal in an existing building. A shot-gun approach won’t work.

How do I get started with your services? With a free phone consultation. I do everything I can to make it as easy as possible to get you started and obtain the results you want.

How do I find out more about LEED for Homes and Energy Star certification for new homes? I am accredited to certify homes and commercial buildings under these programs. Program websites include www.resnet.us and www.USGBC.org.

What happens after a makeover? You live well, having more fun and enjoyment in your home!

ASK ME A QUESTION

“Bruce Glanville is a wealth of information. He has been an essential part of our total sustainability effort. With his knowledge of the green building industry and processes, we are able to devote more time towards design and execution quality. Bruce made himself available to our tight schedule and has delved into our [often less than easy] requests with vigor and enthusiasm. I recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone in need of home energy services”.

-Samuel Mortimer, University of Tennessee, New Norris House Project LEED for Homes Coordinator

“The house and I are doing well with the (cold) weather. So far I’ve been comfortable with the heat at 68 degrees. The heat is very consistent throughout the house which is very nice. My Nov KUB bill was 147.00 and my Dec bill was 157.00, just in case you’re wondering. I’m saving the bills so that you can see the transformation from a year ago.”

Jasmine Harris,  Homeowner, Knoxville, TN