Robert S's Profile

Display Name: Robert S
Member Since: 1/17/12

Latest Comments...

My parents, both architects, are finishing up a second home where they plan to retire. They are both in their 60s, and I urged them to think about universal design and less stairs given their age. They elected to build up rather than out.

Ironically, my father has been diagnosed with a major illness that limits his mobility shortly after they moved forward with construction. We are now forced to retrofit the design to address these issues.

Based on my experience and the rising age of the population in general, I would go with the elevator.


Home Elevator, Yea or Nay?
Good Questions
2/28/12 10:16 AM

As someone who works in the green building and energy efficiency field, I would not label these as "eco friendly". Repeating marketing tag lines from the manufacturers doesn't give the readers here a full picture. Producing steam in your home is not a good thing, and you can still have combustion safety issues with these products.

See the link from a former colleague's building science blog:

"n a nutshell, the reason folks who understand building science oppose vent-free appliances is that:

Even when working perfectly, they put a lot of water vapor into the house. (See my recent article on combustion.)

Drafts, fans, candles, and tight houses can mess up the combustion process.

Many homeowners don't understand how to operate or maintain them."

http://www.energyvanguard.com/blog-building-science-HERS-BPI/bid/48762/Bob-Vila-and-the-Vent-Free-Gas-Fireplace-A-Sorry-State-of-Affairs


The Ventless Fireplace: A Cool Idea Worth Warming Up To
2/2/12 12:54 PM

Anyone know whos makes that spice rack?


Before & After: What 5 Extra Feet Of Countertop Space Looks Like
Manhattan Nest
1/17/12 4:25 PM