Now that the project has passed all of its City inspections for rough framing, rough electrical, rough framing, concrete footings etc., it is now time for the insulation to be installed.  As you can see from the attached picture, it is extremely important to strengthen and increase the thermal factors of the residence when the opportunity arises.  In this case, the maximum insulating factors have been considered for this residence, which is often dictated by the size of the framing members.  For example, on the 2 x 6 walls thicker insulation with higher thermal factors can be employed versus the smaller framing members, such as 2 x 4.  We always advise our clients to consider the benefits of the new thermal factors that are available now and recommended throughout the entire industry.

In order to create a more open and interactive space, the architect designed a massive kitchen that is surrounded by the great room.  To accomplish this objective, the structural engineer provided calculations for a large laminated beam that extends from the exterior of the residence to the main hallway.   Large concrete footings enforced with steel rebar and plates support the new loads from the laminated beam that have been redistributed to either end of the structure.

The framing has been completed for the new powder bathroom, which is located in an area near the entry way.  The new sewer line was installed by locating the existing line and providing a new run into this powder bathroom location.  The architectural plans show where the existing line is located, but it is still necessary for the plumber to test the exact sewer line location in order to ensure accuracy.

In this Rancho Mirage Project, we are in the process of the rough work, which includes the rough framing, rough electrical, rough plumbing and concrete footing work.  As you can see in the picture, there is a considerable amount of framing required to restructure the residence in order to redistribute the new structural loads so that the home can have a more open feeling throughout.  The electrician is working on running new circuits to the kitchen so that the appliances have the proper loads fed from the main panel.

Damian Trevor and Team Sun Construction firmly believe that going green needs to be discussed in greater depth in order to make sure that the consumer selects the right options. Damian Trevor further states that some background and history on the subject matter may be best to consider. For example, in 2004 the Green Building Council rolled out a pilot program for residential projects, and today 350 builders are enrolled for 6,000 green homes to go through certification. To get a home certified as green, builders would have to pay about $2,000 for the required inspection.

Damian Trevor also notes that according to the National Association of Home Builders, a trade group with 235,000 corporate members is at work on its own green buildings standards. The group, which worked a decade ago to develop a standard way to measure square footage in homes, began work on green building rules in 2004. The rules, being developed in collaboration with the International Code Council, will be written for accreditation from the American National Standards Institute, or ANSI.

Currently, some Energy Upgrade California™ is a new, statewide program that offers cash incentives to single-family homeowners who complete select energy-saving home improvements. Damian Trevor urges clients to consider the statewide programs that may be available to them prior to making any decisions.

Working with participating contractors, homeowners can choose from a variety of participation options to make the energy-saving improvements to correct energy inefficiencies, increase comfort and save on monthly utility bills.

In addition to the above there is also the peace of mind of knowing that you show that you genuinely care about the environment and the social responsibilities you have as a business. Damian Trevor and Team Sun Construction work hard to highlight these benefits to their clients and note that green buildings promote healthy living by existing in harmony with the environment.

In the end, Damian Trevor and Team Sun Construction believe that energy efficient housing make sense. LEED-certification for future building projects may become mandatory. While some organizations may be late coming on board with construction involving green buildings, the LEED general contractors that have already taken a pro-active stand towards sustainable environment conservation will benefit from the financial benefits and increase in property value.