High efficiency renovation converting an existing cape to a fully-functional, high efficiency integrated whole without adding any additional square footage.

Emphasis on sustainability and reuse. Original floors were patched with locally milled birch and oil finished with Woca vegetable-based rubbed-oil finish. Rather than removing flooring in the master bathroom original flooring was simply left in place during the renovation and refinished. Cork was used for countertops giving a very compelling look at a fraction of the cost of any other countertop material. It is surprisingly durable and easily repaired when cut or damaged. We have joked that is also flotation against all the precipitation we have gotten 2010 and 2011.

Complete Energy Retrofit and Energy Efficiency: House was benchmark tested with very high but typical air leakage prior to work. Entire upstairs ceiling was removed and closed-cell polyurethane spray foam insulation was installed. This also remedied an extreme moisture and mold problem that had developed inside attic cavities. Basement b wall assemblies were also sprayed with closed-cell polyurethane spray foam insulation. Air leakage rates following our work made a 59% reduction in air leakage.

Additionally, the old forced hot-air furnace was replaced with a high-efficiency condensing boiler. The whole weatherization package resulted in a 53% reduction in heating costs.

The net result is a fully-functional family oriented space that is beautiful and brings family together in daily life. Incidentally, there is an uptick in the number of neighborhood kids spending time in the home too. Interesting how that happens!