Sandy & Pat's Blog

What Are We Doing Growing Grass?

2010-07-22T05:12:00Z

It seems that almost every home owner wants a huge expanse of bright green grass in front of their house and out in the back yard as well.
Sure it looks good, but at what expense and labour?

Levelling the lawn area, seeding, watering, cutting, raking, fertilizing and weeding are all chores that come with our insistence on having lawns, and for what?

Wouldn't our time and resources be better spent on using the land we own to grow food? Nowadays, food that has to travel to us gets more and more expensive as gas prices climb. Plus, we are never really sure what kinds of pesticides or herbicides they may contain.

How much less grass would we have to cut if part of our yard was vegetable boxes, a row of berries, a few fruit trees and a patch of rhubarb?

It would be great to see new home builders use some of their left-over materials to build garden boxes, a cold frame or trellises and start the new home owner on the path to growing more food than grass on his property.
Let's Talk!

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Development of Solar Panels

2010-05-08T14:17:00Z

The science of storing and using the sun's energy is still developing. The first photovoltaic cell was made by Alexandre Becquerel. It was able to absorb the rays from the sun and emit electrons. Really, the first solar panel on a small scale.

After scientists found a way to connect many of these cells and store the electrons in a series of batteries, solar panels were on their way to becoming a useable energy source.

Among the first applications were experiments in the space industry. Space engineers needed a source of power to run electronics devices on satellites and space vehicles while not adding to the overall weight on take off (as regular fuel would).

The 1990s saw an increase in the production and uses of solar panels, plus efforts to reduce their cost to consumers. California has led the way in subsidizing the switch to solar power by developing efficient mobile uses for it. It is becoming more and more common to find appliances in RVs and boats, among many others that are run on solar power.

Currently, the worries about global warming and the detrimental effects of burning fossil fuels has led to a greater interest in solar panels and green energy. Also, reports keep coming in that warn of the depletion of oil and coal on the planet and this just might force our hand to fully use the clean, renewable energy of our sun.

In future years, more governments will follow California's lead by offering incentives to switch homes and businesses to solar power.

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Our Sun: A Powerful Source of Energy (Part I)

2010-04-20T19:41:00Z

Throughout history, the Sun has been revered for its warmth, power and ability to support all living things on the planet.

The construction of the Pyramids in Egypt and Mexico, Stonehenge in England and many other ancient monuments were based on following the Sun's path across the sky.

We take it for granted, but without the sun's power the temperature on Earth would be so cold that the planet could not support any form of life.

Early tribes switched from a hunter-gatherer society when they learned the skills of planting and tending crops. They paid attention to the sun's path in the heavens and grew their crops accordingly. With a steady supply of food available and without the need for so much travel, settlements and villages evolved. The inhabitants had the spare time and stability to develop Art,Music, Science and Culture and our modern society began to take shape.

Science especially would prove to do the most to change our lifestyles throughout the ages and it would be centuries before the next step; harnessing the Sun's energy would be developed.

“Let’s Talk”
Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Grey Water

2010-04-13T22:53:00Z

Grey water comprises 50-80% ofresidential waste water!
It is water that has been used for bathing,showers, dishwashing, and laundry (It excludes sewage)

A grey water system is especiallyimportant in drought areas.

The added bonus is that muchless water enters the sewage treatment plants.

Phosphate rich soaps and cleanersin your grey water are really pollutants. They accelerate algae growth inour waterways, which eventually leads to oxygen depletion for fish and marinelife.

Luckily, these same"pollutants" are nutrition when you use your grey water forirrigation of fruit trees, landscaping plants and garden beds.

A very informative book forinstalling systems is "The New Create an Oasis with Grey water" byArt Ludwig. It will help building professionals and homeowners to workwithin building codes to include grey water systems in new construction or remodeling.

When you consider the amount ofwater we are talking about, this could be one of the most advantageousimprovements you could do for a greener environment.

“Let’s Talk”

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Rain Gardens

2010-03-31T15:48:00Z

For those of us with a low lying spot on their property, a Rain Garden can be a great benefit.
Most homes have gutter systems which divert run-off water in times of heavy rain. It ends up going through a storm drain where it can pick up all kinds of pollutants as it drains.Instead, channel the water onto a low-lying place on your property where you have set up your Rain Garden.
A good size is about 10 feet by 5 feet by 2 feet. For about $75 you can top dress the area with a cubic foot of top soil mixed with 2 cubic feet of sand. (add rotted compost as you make it).
Then talk to your nursery owner about adding plants that like low-lying damp areas or better yet, take a walk and find out which native plants like these kinds of conditions and transplant them. As your Rain Garden grows, it will become a beautiful focal point for your property.
Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Lighting Your Home: Change Those Bulbs!

2010-03-24T16:07:00Z

The sooner you replace your incandescent (regular) light bulbs with compact fluorescents (CFL's) the sooner you start to save money on your hydro costs. One CFL bulb usually costs $2-3 and lasts around 10,000 hours. During its lifetime, it uses only about 27 kilowatts to generate as much light as a 100 watt regular bulb. The $3 CFL uses about $22 in hydro so the total cost is $25.

In comparison, the regular bulb costs $.50 and will only last 1000 hours. You'll need $5 worth to last the 10,000 hours and it will use 1000 kilowatts of electricity during its lifetime, around $80 worth. When you do the math, CFL's will give you considerable savings and are more eco-friendly due to their reduced hydro usage.

Start by replacing your most used bulbs first, gradually replacing all of them around your home. It won't be long before you start noticing a difference in your bills and the added bonus is that you won't have the inconvenience of changing light bulbs nearly as often. No matter which kinds of bulbs you are using, everyone in you family should get in the habit of turning off any lights that are not needed. You should also consider using lower watt bulbs in areas that do not need a great amount of light. Think Green!

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Efficient Home Hot Water Heating

2010-03-23T01:22:00Z

If your home still has an older hot water heating system, there are a few things you can do to conserve energy and cost.
Turn down the temperature to warm setting (120degrees).
Insulate the water tank and as much of the lines as possible so that they don't cool down quickly between uses.
Use low-flow fixtures for taps and showers.

When your existing system needs replacing, consider"on-demand" or "tankless" hot water heaters.
They have been used in Europe for over 50 years with considerable savings on energy costs and reduction of CO2 released into the atmosphere.
The savings is achieved by eliminating energy wasted by warmed water sitting around unused in a storage tank.
The tanks also take up quite a bit of space and many only have a life expectancy of 10 years before you have to replace them.

It is worthwhile to check on grants and rebates for BC homeowners to help offset the cost of a new system.

To discuss these options call 1-877-732-9888. Website www.homeperformance.com

Keeping it Green.

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Making your Older Home Greener

2010-03-18T04:47:00Z

Think of your house as a system.
To improve its energy efficiency, tackle the outer shell of the building first.
This would include attics, outerwalls, windows, doors, then try to make improvements on your heating or cooling systems, lighting, hot water and appliances. Installing proper insulationslows the rate of heat leaving your home so that less energy is required. Often blown-in insulation cangreatly improve your comfort while saving you money and being less harmful onthe environment. Planting shade trees and shrubs,especially on the west side of the home will keep your place from heating upduring the summer, reducing the cost of air conditioning. Deciduous are best because theywill allow the sun to come through during the winter months. Doing some comparison shopping onthe newer window and door products can also do a lot to make your older homemore green.
Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

A Diamond in the Rough

2010-03-02T15:28:00Z

Sometimes you run across an unexpected deal while you're looking for a home. Not every place will be thoroughly de-cluttered, cleaned and staged for the market.The home owner may live far away, or has lost interest in his place and wants to sell as quickly as possible.This gives you bargaining power with the owner and it's a great way to get into the Real Estate market.Look at older homes which do not have structural damage or need a lot of expensive professional attention from plumbers or electricians. A building inspector can help you here.
Try to imagine the house de-cluttered, a fresh paint job, old carpet ripped out, new window treatments. These are cosmetic, inexpensive fix-ups and you can turn the place into a real gem with a little elbow grease and a paint brush. You will not only pat yourself on the back for getting a great bargain, but the improvements will increase your home's value right away.
Good Luck with your house search!
Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Sightseeing by Houseboat

2010-02-24T18:20:00Z

Lake Cowichan is one of the largest bodies of fresh water on Vancouver Island. It's long narrow shape make it perfect for cruising on a houseboat.

You'll float by green rollinghills, sandy beaches and cottagers enjoying a swim. Drop anchor any time and head to shore for a hike or picnic. Everything you need will be at your fingertips. No need to head back to dock. You can prepare food in the kitchen, BBQ on deck, have a cold one from your fridge or snooze listening to the waves lapping.

Houseboats are also and ideal way to check out properties and imagine how it would be to live at the lake.

If you are seeking a recreational/investment property there are opportunities to use your home as a vacation rental to help offset the costs. Contact your realtor to discuss the potential investment opportunities in this beautiful area.

Sandy Stinson (250) 749-6000

Life on the Lake

2010-02-21T02:42:00Z

If you're not from the area, you might appreciate living at Cowichan Lake even more than someone who was born here.
You may come to the lake for a visit, then go home and you can't help but start making comparisons.

There are so few places left on the planet where you can slip away from a pristine shoreline in your boat or kayak (even in the month of February!) and enjoy looking out toward a lush green shoreline where water birds are feeding, view a fish or two jumping and if you're lucky even see an otter stretched out on a dock. Some days on the lake are downright magical, like catching sight of a soaring eagle, or gazing into a sunset the colour of a glowing pomegranate.

Those of us lucky enough to live here feel truly blessed but even if you live elsewhere, what a perfect place to retire. There are many opportunities to have this peaceful lifestyle either after you finish working, or own a recreational property to enjoy while you're still working.

It's never too early to plan ahead. Where would you like to spend your leisure years? Think about joining us up here at the Lake. It could be a win/win situation because the more people we attract from diverse locations, the more new ideas and new ways of thinking are brought into our community.

Sandy Stinson

(250) 749-6000

Small Town Sentiments

2010-02-17T19:58:00Z

You can concentrate on all the things that aren't available when you live in a small town. It's true, that everything you're used to in city life won't be at your fingertips in a small community. But the things that really count are all there. You really have to get out, attend the community events, walk through town and trails, sit at a local cafe and relax, enjoy a simpler less hectic pace of life.No one knew this better than Lake Cowichan's reporter/photographer Doug Marner. Doug left us suddenly due to a stroke on Valentines Day at 54 years old: way too young. But while he was out there, reporting for our town's Lake Cowichan Gazette, there was hardly ever a sports or social event where you didn't see Doug. And he didn't just zoom in, grab a picture or two and disappear. He became a welcome part of every get together, smiling, talking to everyone and relishing the togetherness of the town.I last saw him covering a night of great music sponsored by our Radio Station CICV at the local Lion's Hall. He was doing what he loved best; reporting on music events. As usual, he walked in with the big grin, stopped to chat to everyone in between snapping a few pictures. It was evident that he was so happy that Lake Cowichan had a venue to showcase the local musicians. Right to the end, he represented everything that is special about small town life, and I will think of him with great fondness whenever I go out to any of our town celebrations.

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Rain Barrels-A Great Idea

2010-02-09T01:29:00Z

Installing a rainbarrel at your home will give all kinds of benefits. It is an emergencywater supply when the hydro is out.

It provides manygallons of chlorine-free, oxygen rich water which will benefit your garden andhouse plants.
Watering with warm rain barrel water reduces shock andeliminates a condition called "damping off" when watering newtransplants.

Rain barrels divertwater away from the foundation of your house.

They cut down on yourwater bill.

They can help preventflooding and limit run-off in an overburdened sewer system.

Rain barrels reducedemand on the municipal water system, very important when we are havingextremely dry summers.

Tune in again formore of the many benefits of having a rain barrel.

And remember to ThinkGreen!

Sandy Stinson
(250) 749-6000

Waste Reduction

2010-02-03T22:06:00Z

When building, measure and calculate at least two times to eliminate anyleft-over materials.

Order lengths and sizes that suit the project so that very little ends upin the scrap heap.

Do your homework on local green materials for all your projects. If thematerials have to be transported long distances, the fuel consumption andexhaust fumes produced negate your green intentions.

If you are tearing down an existing structure, consider any usefulmaterials that might be sold or donated to a building recycler. ex. windows,doors, bricks, hardware, lumber. There are more and more of these sites poppingup all over North America, and while you'reout there, check and see if there are any materials which may suit your nextproject.

"Build it Green"

Sandy Stinson

Green Building Products

2010-01-28T05:39:00Z

Many building products on the market claim to be green materials, butdon't live up to their claims. Read carefully and don't be afraid to askquestions.

Try to choose products that contain recycled material. They notonly reduce the strain on landfills but reduce the need to use extra rawmaterials. Any way we can lessen our use of natural resources willbenefit all of us.

Another great choice is using rapidly renewable products such as cork andbamboo, or wood products made from fast growing trees such as alder.

Choosing products that are durable also fits in with our greeninterests. These types of products stand the test of time and requireless money and materials for replacement or repair.

Happy Green Building!

Sandy Stinson & Pat Duringer

(250) 749-6000