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Houzz awards
are determined by a variety of factors, including client reviews and interaction
within the Houzz community. Deborah can be found on Houzz at http://www.houzz.com/pro/dsbutler/deborah-butler-brickwood-builders
"Houzz
provides homeowners with a 360 degree view of home building, remodeling
and design industry professionals, empowering them to engage the right
people and products for their project" said Liza Hausman, vice president
of industry marketing for Houzz. "We're delighted to recognize Brickwood
Builders among or "Best Of" professionals as judged by our community
of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating
their homes."
Brickwood
specializes in home addition, whole hosue remodeling, basement renovations,
kitchens and baths.
The Eugene Gulledge Award for Distinguished
Service is the highest honor given by the Builders Association. It is
named in honor of Eugene Gulledge who founded the Greensboro Builders
Association fifty-seven years ago. This award recognizes continuous, outstanding
contributions to the Builders Association and the community at large over
a long period of time.
In February of 2015, Ed Butler was awarded the
2014 Gulledge Award. Ed holds the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) national
designation, maintaining a continual focus of professional development
and continuing education. He has served on the GBA Board of Directors,
chaired the Remodelers Council, Tour of Remodeled Homes and numerous community
service project initiatives, including the initial ReBuilding Hope partnership
with Community Housing Solution. Butler strives and encourages his peers
to promote the highest level of professionalism within the remodeling
and building industry.
We are please to have the opportunity to
participate in the 2011 Tour of Remodeled Homes. This marks five years
in a row that Brickwood has had an entry in this prestigious event. Tickets
for all 14 entered homes may be purchased at the door or by contacting
the Greensboro Homebuilders Association or Brickwood Builders. Proceeds
from the event are used to offset product and material costs of the Remodeler’s
Council community projects.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
Deborah Butler, Vice President
of Brickwood Buidlers, Inc., has received the Certified Aging-in-Place
Specialist (CAPS) designation from the National Association of Home Builders.
Aging in place means remaining
in one's home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age,
income or ability level. It means the pleasure of living in a familiar
environment throughout one's maturing years and the ability to enjoy the
familiar daily rituals and the special events that enrich all or lives.
It means the reassurance of being able to call a house a "home"
for a lifetime.
Brickwood had the opportunity to
Chair a team of remodelers and builders from the Greensboro Builders Association
that "kicked off" the initial "Rebuilding Hope" program,
a joint effort between Housing Greensboro and Greensboro Builders Association.
"Rebuilding Hope" focused on making the homes of low-income
homeowners more energy efficient and making much needed repairs to make
the homes drier, warmer and safer. A total of 10 homes were selected to
have repairs completed by the end of May, National Remodeling Month.
Ed Butler earned his Certified
Graduate Remodeler (CGR) designation from the National Association of
Home Builders. A CGR designation means Ed performs professional, quality
work and has demonstrated his commitment to excellence and professionalism
in the industry through continuing education.
To earn the CGR designation, a
remodeler must meet nationally defined criteria for previous experience,
adhere to prescribed business standards and engage in contnuing education.
To maintain the designation, CGRs must complete a continuing education
requirement every three years.
Brickwood was the featured builder
in NC Builder Magazine for the month of May. The magazine also featured
one of our whole house projects on the cover. We were very honored to
be featured and have the opportunity to communicate our remodeling philosophy
with their readers.
The magazine and article may be
viewed at NC
Builder Magazine
What
are examples of remodeling projects with the most beneficial tax credits
for North Carolina residents?
The largest individual tax credits are for renewable energy sources such
as geothermal heat pumps or solar water heaters, which qualify for a federal
credit of 30% of the cost, including labor, with no maximum cap. NC tax
credits may be available as well, but strict definitions apply. These
systems offer significant operating savings, however the initial investment
is substantial.
For more traditional home maintenance categories, the federal tax credits
are 30% of the cost with a $1,500.00 maximum cap for the 2009/2010 tax
years combined. Currently, we are not aware of any NC individual state
tax credits relating to traditional home maintenance.
Replacement of HVAC systems, including air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces,
hot water boilers and hot water heaters provide more significant tax credits
and rebates. The 30% federal credit is calculated on both materials and
labor. Many NC utility companies provide rebates for upgrades of HVAC
systems and information is available on their websites. Beginning June
1, NC will offer a rebate program for replacement with Energy Star qualified
HVAC systems and some appliances, for which consumers will need to apply
by mail.
For building envelope replacements, such as windows, doors, insulation,
and roofing, the 30% credit applies to material cost only. Don’t,
however, overlook the fact that, according to the Department of Energy,
heat loss through windows alone accounts for 10% - 25% of a home’s
heating bill. We frequently visit homes that have inadequate insulation
or doors and windows that perform very poorly. Savings from reduced utility
bills coupled with the tax credit can be significant.
To maximize tax credits and rebates, do your homework. Numerous websites
address tax credits and rebates, but they can be very confusing. Specific
requirements apply to each category and not all Energy Star products qualify.
Before purchasing, consult tax and construction professionals regarding
your particular situation. A professional contractor can assist you and
should supply the required manufacturer’s certification and a breakdown
of material versus labor cost, where needed.
The Homestar program (known as “cash for caulkers”) proposed
by President Obama will enhance incentives via additional rebates. This
legislation should move through Congress this summer.
To assist consumers, Brickwood Builders provides links
to tax credit and rebate sources.
Links to tax credit and rebate websites
http://www.energystar.gov/
NC Guidelines on Tax Credits for Renewable Energy -
http://www.dornc.com/practitioner/individual/directives/renewableenergyguidelines.html
http://healthybuilthomes.org/docs/Residential_tax_credit_fact_sheet.pdf
NC Energy Rebate Program beginning June 1, 2010 - http://www.energysavers.gov/financial/rebates/pdfs/rebate_summary_NC.pdf
Listing of Rebates and Incentives from Utility Companies in NC
-
http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/index.cfm?State=NC
The "Opt-Out" provision
of the original law is officially repealed for all states including North
Carolina making the lead safe certification, training and work practices
apply to all pre-1978 houses. This has been expected for some time but
is now official. This action removes the opportunity for the homeowner
to sign an agreement to exempt the renovation or repair firm from the
training and work practice requirements of the LRRP rule.
The EPA is also now requiring renovation firms to provide
a copy of the records demonstrating compliance with the training and work
practice requirements of the LRRP rule to the owner and, if different,
the occupant of the building being renovated or the operator of the child-occupied
facility.
In addition, the new ruling makes minor changes to the
certification, accreditation and state authorization requirements.
See the official EPA revisions at http://www.epa.gov/lead/new.htm
Brickwood Builders, Inc. was
nominated by one of our clients for the 2010 Piedmont Business Ethics
Award and is a finalist. The award winners will be announced on April
20, 2010. The winners in the Piedmont may be submitted for consideration
at the national level for the American Business Ethics Award.
The Greensboro Chapter of The Society of Financial Services Professionals
sponsors the Piedmont Business Ethics Award. The award was established
to honor companies that demonstrate a firm commitment to ethical business
practices in everyday operations, management philosophies and responses
to crises or challenges.
Companies nominated are broken into categories based upon the size of
the organization. Entries are evaluated by an independent panel of judges
composed of individuals with an expertise in business ethics and are drawn
from the business, academic, public service and media sectors.
Brickwood Builders, Inc. is now one of
the few Triad organizations certified as a North Carolina Certified Lead
Professional. The EPA introduced new regulations, which take effect nationally
on April 22, 2010 but for North Carolina were effective as of January
1, 2010.
The Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program requires
that, before any maintenance (interior or exterior), renovation or construction
work on residential housing, schools and day-care centers built prior
to 1978 is started, the area must be tested for lead paint by a Certified
Lead Renovator using an EPA recognized/approved test kit and the homeowners
must receive a booklet explaining the harmful effects of lead.
If lead is determined to be present, the work practice requirements for
the project are substantially different from those practiced in the past
and a Certified Lead Renovation Firm must perform the work.
The new rules are confusing. You may learn more at our Lead
Paint Renovation and Repair Page or we will be glad to assist homeowners
with information regarding the lead paint requirements and their applicability
to your situation. You may also learn more at www.epa.gov/lead.
In summary the new regulations affect:
•Pressure washing the exterior of a painted house/deck/porch
•Painting the interior or exterior of a home
•Window replacements in a home
•Remodeling interior spaces in a home or the exterior
of a home
•Drywall replacement or repair
•Can possibly apply to plumbing, electrical or HVAC
work
These rules apply to trade contractors (painters, maintenance/handyman,
remodelers, plumbers, electricians, window installers, siding installers,
kitchen/bath cabinet specialists, drywall organizations), property managers,
residential rental property owners, and property leasing agents.
Lead paint is proven to affect children developmentally. Many believe
this is a just a lower income issue, but nothing could be further from
the truth. Before 1978, the “best” painters purchased higher
end paint that contained lead and then typically would add additional
lead to improve the look and durability upon application. It was the hallmark
of a great job and was considered to be higher quality and was more expensive.
The EPA’s
new, more stringent, lead paint safety rules go into effect on April 22,
2010 and apply to all residential properties built prior to 1978. The
new regulations require contractor certification and very specific documentation
along with specific work and disposal procedures to prevent lead contamination.
The rules apply to all contractors (or an individual performing substantially
the same work for compensation), plumbers, painters, electricians and
rental property owners. Organizations or individuals involved in painting
or remodeling homes built prior to 1978 MUST be EPA certified and registered
in order to perform the work.
Our paint supplier, Sherwin-Williams, has put together
a very informative brochure that you can view by clicking (HERE).
More information concerning this critical regulation
is available at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.
We are passionate about creating value for
our clients and building lasting relationships. "Remodeling Insights"
is designed to provide meaningful information to assist you in preserving
the enjoyment and value of one of your most significant investments –
your home.
To view copies of any newsletter or to request to receive the newsletter,
please click the Newsletter
link at the top of this page. We appreciate any comments or suggestions
that you have to improve our newsletter.
Ed Butler, President
of Brickwood Builders, was elected Chairman of the Greensboro Builders
Association’s Remodeler's Council for 2010. The Remodelers Council
focuses on promoting professionalism and education among its members thereby
improving the remodeling experience for their customers.
Brickwood Builders,
Inc. participated in the twelfth annual Tour of Remodeled Homes with a
French country kitchen remodel. The Tour, sponsored by the Greensboro
Builders Association, is the primary fund raising event for the local
GBA Remodeler's Council, which funds volunteer events sponsored by the
Council. The 2009 Tour marks the third year in a row that Brickwood was
able to participate in this prestigious event.
Many thanks to the gracious homeowners who allowed the
public entry into their homes and also to the hundreds of attendees who
viewed the 16 beautiful remodels. The event would not be successful without
their willingness to participate.
We appreciate the referrals
received from our clients and friends and consider it an honor that you
place such trust in us. For any referral provided that results in a contracted
project, Brickwood will send you a $50.00 gift certificate to a local
restaurant or business of your choosing or make a $50.00 donation in your
honor to a charity of your choice.
At Brickwood, we are passionate about creating
value for our clients and building lasting relationships. "Remodeling
Insights" is designed to provide meaningful information to assist
you in preserving the enjoyment and value of one of your most significant
investments – your home.
To view copies of any newsletter or to request to receive the newsletter,
please click the Newsletter
link at the top of this page. We appreciate
any comments or suggestions that you have to improve our newsletter.
Energy tax credits (under Tax Code Section
25C) are again available to homeowners making improvements to their existing
principal residence during the period January 1, 2009 through December
31, 2010. The tax credits are 30% of the cost, up to a $1,500.00 cap,
and apply to certain products in the following categories:
Windows and Doors
HVAC Systems
Insulation
Water Heaters (non-solar)
Roofing
Biomass Stoves
As you look at making improvements in any of these categories, it pays
to do some research and compare costs. There are very specific requirements
for products to quality for the credits and there are some documentation
requirements as well. In some cases, installation costs also qualify for
the credit. Additional information is available at www.energystar.gov/taxcredits.
Please consult with your personal tax advisor to best take advantage of
these credits.
Piedmont Natural Gas has announced a rebate
program for its current customers that upgrade existing gas units (furnaces
or water heaters) to approved energy efficient gas units. More information
on the rebate terms and conditions can be obtained at www.piedmontng.com.
These rebates are substantial and are available on a first-come, first-serve
basis until the pool of funds is exhausted.
On June 12th, McIver Education Center o
fsummit Avenue unveiled its new Skills Learning Center created by the
Remodeler's Council of the Greensboro Builders Association. This community
service project was to create a kitchen and laundry area at McIver Education
Center to support Home Learning Skills, one of the primary teaching tracts
for students of the center.
Brickwood’s design staff worked with the faculty of McIver to create
the design of the facility. As construction of the facility began in September,
Brickwood provided staff support for the construction effort.
Ed and Debbie Butler, owners of Brickwood
Builders, are enrolled in the National Association of Home Builders’
Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) program. CGR is an exclusive professional
designation that emphasizes business management skills. A CGR must have
five years of remodeling experience, uphold the CGR Code of Ethics and
meet ongoing continuing education requirements. Both Ed and Debbie are
on track to complete the designation in 2009.
Back to the top of
this page.
Ed Butler, president of Brickwood Builders,
served as a guest columnist for the "House Helper" and "Tips
From The Pros" series, part of the Triad Homes section in the Sunday
edition. Click on a topic below to see the full text of each article:
Lead
Paint Delays - Get the facts
What are examples of remodeling
projects with the most beneficial tax credits for North Carolina residents?
Track lighting has stood the test of time
Rid your floor of squeaks
How to fix twisted and warped deck
posts
Fireplace options
Appliance options for kitchen
Back to the top of
this page.
We are please to have the opportunity to
participate in the 2011 Tour of Remodeled Homes. This marks five years
in a row that Brickwood has had an entry in this prestigious event. Tickets
for all 14 entered homes may be purchased at the door or by contacting
the Greensboro Homebuilders Association or Brickwood Builders. Proceeds
from the event are used to offset product and material costs of the Remodeler’s
Council community projects.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
We are please to have the opportunity to
participate in the 2010 Tour of Remodeled Homes. This marks four years
in a row that Brickwood has had an entry in this prestigious event. Tickets
for all 13 entered homes may be purchased at the door or by contacting
the Greensboro Homebuilders Association or Brickwood Builders. Proceeds
from the event are used to offset product and material costs of the Remodeler’s
Council community projects.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
We are please to have the opportunity to
participate in the 2009 Tour of Remodeled Homes. This marks the third
year in a row that Brickwood has had an entry in this prestigious event.
Tickets for all 16 entered homes may be purchased at the door or by contacting
the Greensboro Homebuilders Association or Brickwood Builders. Proceeds
from the event are used to offset product and material costs of the Remodeler’s
Council community projects.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
Brickwood
Builders again participated in the annual Tour of Remodeled Homes sponsored
by the Greater Greensboro Builders Association. Proceeds from the event
are used to offset product and material costs of the Remodeler’s
Council community projects. Labor for these projects is donated by the
various members of the Remodeler's Council.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
This is our first entry in the Remodeler's
Council annual Tour of Remodeled Homes, sponsored by the Greensboro Builders
Association. Our project this year is a first floor remodel of a 1962
home.
To
view our virtural tour of this project go to Gallery
Back
to the top of this page.
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