A Word About Site Sponsorships

In the interests of full disclosure, I just wanted to let everyone know my stance on advertising on this site. The following are the only places where you will see paid ads from sponsors:

• the (quite obvious) ads on the side and bottom of the pages
• the sites under Useful Links
• any blog post that is followed by something to the effect of this post was brought to you by...

Anything else on this site is purely my own opinion, so if I recommend something and it's not followed by some type of disclosure, rest assured I'm recommending because I truly feel it's a good product/service/whatever. I just wanted to make sure everyone was on the same page with this, because I don't think I've outlined before.

Remodeling Market Index Plunges

The National Association of Homebuilders keeps track of the Remodeling Market Index (RMI), which tracks professional remodeler's perception of the current and future markets.

Last quarter, the RMI for the current period dropped to a record low 33.5, with anything less than 50 meaning the outlook is worse than the previous period. For projects costing over $25,000, the RMI is even lower- 23. For more details on the RMI's history, inspect the chart in this post or check out NAHB's site.

So what does this mean for us thrifty homeowners? I don't think it should stop us from doing the sensible projects we want to do, and it may even lead to better prices from contractors. Let's use it to our advantage to gain an upperhand when negotiating.

Focus Earth on Planet Green

I don't know how I've missed it since its debut in July, but I just started watching Focus Earth on Planet Green. If you get Planet Green and you have an interest in environmental issues, you really should watch this show. It's the only weekly newscast about the environemnet, and they often have stories about how you can make your home more efficient (thus making you more thrifty).

New Carnival of Home Improvement!

I'm sure you've seen this type of thing at other blogs you visit- a weekly compendium of posts from other bloggers (why it's called a "carnival" is beyond me, but I have neither the power nor passion to try to change the lingo). Since I couldn't find one about home improvement, I created my own. I welcome you to submit your relevant links. Search for the Carnival of Home Improvement. I specifically want to see posts that relate to saving money, so try to submit those. I hope to publish this every week.

Attic Insulation

One of the projects on my to-do list is insulating my attic. From what I read, an uninsulated or poorly insulated attic can cost you around 30% on your heating and cooling bills. Before I can seriously consider reinsulating, I'll first have to organzie all the items in the attic, as well as secure some floorboards, but I thought I'd briefly take a look at the two main types of insulation: loose-fill and blanket.

Blanket typically comes in the form we've all accustomed to: those large, pinkish colored segments. By using this method, the homeowner can typically complete an insulation job by himself for little money. Most blanket materials are made of fiberglass, which is made from a variety of other materials.

Loose-fill is blown in with a mchine, which would require hiring a professional. This method is also more expensive, but has the added benefits of being more effective (more easily conforms to areas) and environmentally friendly, as much of the loose-fill used today is made up of recycled paper (check with your provider).

The Department of Energy has good introductory info about attic insulation that I recommend reading up on. I'll keep you posted as to how my project progresses.

Solar Lights Installed

To continue my driveway renovation, I installed a set of sensor-activated solar lights to illuminate its darkest portion. The install was easy, and it looks pretty decent (if you can get over the extra wires).

It only cost me $30 and I'll never have to pay for its energy use, so I thought it was a good buy. But, I have a couple of gripes: the sensor could be more sensitive, and the lights could be brighter. I should have realized that the lights would not be very powerful, as each light has only 3 LEDs in them. I have another set I had planned on installing in my backyard, too. I may actually see if it can be returned so I can find a different solar light option.

Has anyone else successfully used solar lights? I have a couple others in other areas of my backyard, and I'm not very pleased with their light output. I guess that's just the nature of the product.

Shopping Aggregation Site

I thought you might be interested in knowing about a site I visit before I make most purchases related to my home, ShopWiki. They basically troll the internet for sites that sell things, categorize them, and then present them in an easy to use interface. I like that no matter how big or small the retailer is, they can get their products listed here, with absolutely no cost to them. It's nice to see a level playing field.

In the past, I've bought a few home accessories from sites I've found on there, and I'm in the process of searching for bedding and lighting (I know, exciting). Even if you don't plan on buying online, it's worth a quick perusal so you know what to expect when are out in the marketplace.