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Helping green ideas "take root"

Greetings from the Green side!

I have to admit, I was inspired by Earth day this year and I have posted some information on my blog regarding simple things that we can all do to make a difference. The thing is, I wasn't really sure if anyone was listening... well, they were.

I received an e-mail from a repeat client of mine who I helped sell his home and downsize into a high-rise condo a couple of years ago. He told me how much he was enjoying reading my blog entries on "green" topics and shared the following great idea with me to pass along to others:

Steve, please feel free to share this with your blog readers:

As you know, I live in a high rise, so I can't install skylights or solatubes for added natural light. It might disturb the 4 floors of apartments above me.

I do have bathroom doors that are directly across from my windows. So, I installed new doors with frosted glass that lead to the bathroom. During the day if I dash in to wash my hands or use the facilities, I really don't need my electric lights anymore.

The frosting is enough so that there is privacy, but I get light.

I may change some other doors to this setup to get more natural light into my hallway too. Baby steps for less energy use!

So there you have it... another great idea to save energy and conserve our resources. Let's continue to share these ideas and hope that they "take root"! :)

Posted by Steve Shatsky - Dallas Real Estate & Short Sale Specialist on 05/02/2008 04:38 PM

Comments (6)

green living, energy, conservation, earth day, environmental awareness, saving electricity, natural light, home remodeling, home renovation

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6 Comments on Helping green ideas "take root"

I see the type of doors he's referring to more often lately. Folks have to keep in mind that the cost in manufacturing & shipping a new door may not be saving in total consumption, but rather just the individual's over time as they save electricity. Also, what about the old doors? Did he trash them or donate them to Habit for Humanity or another agency that will ensure they're reused. As we implement more green living habits, we have to keep in mind that they too have consequences.

I'll be looking into more of your other posts! Great info.

05/05/2008 11:37 AM

by Anthony Clark (Keller Williams Realty)

Great ideas, keep them coming! Simple choices can make a difference.

05/06/2008 07:20 AM

by Ricki Eichler, your Texas Hill Country connection (Coldwell Banker Heart of the Hills, Realtors)

Steve - I have also seen this in a couple home inspections recently. One was a remodel inspection and the new lighting along with the door definitely improved the room. I think we are just at the beginning stage of seeing more "green" features; and in time will be more cost effective.

05/06/2008 08:39 AM

by Carl & Ceil Winters (Complete Inspection Service, New Braunfels, Texas 78133)

Anthony: Thanks for the comment! Feel free to add your 2-cents anytime!

Ricki: That's the key... these really are SIMPLE choices to make! Thanks for the comment.

Carl & Ceil: I have seen the doors that the client who sent me the e-mail installed. They were relatively inexpensive and definitely added thousands of dollars in perceived value for the upgraded appearance thay gave his condo!

05/07/2008 12:11 AM

by Steve Shatsky - Dallas Real Estate & Short Sale Specialist (Keller Williams-Dallas City Center)

We have a friend who used Solatubes in his remodel. They give an amazing amount of light and actually add interest to the room. The next remodel I think we are going to install a few.

05/07/2008 07:41 PM

by Peter Wolf (Coldwell Banker)

Hi Peter: I have seen Solatubes used very well and tastefully, and I have seen them look absolutely awful. All I can say is that I would definitely consult with a designer/decorator before installing to make sure the end result adds what you want and doesn't just highlight a lack of natural light in a room. I recently visited the client who installed the frosted glass doors and I have to tell you they look phenomenal! Even without the energy savings, etc. they add a nice contemporary feel to his condo that will definitely make it more appealing if he ever decides to sell it. :)

05/10/2008 01:30 PM

by Steve Shatsky - Dallas Real Estate & Short Sale Specialist (Keller Williams-Dallas City Center)

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