Going Green? Recycle

Well it's been about 7 weeks since our last post--too long. But it's been a busy time for us. It has come to my attention that we never finished the discussion of "reduce, reuse, recycle." The recycle portion, that is.
So you want to be green? It's definitely the thing to do these days. But why now? Did it just now become cool not to be wasteful and irresponsible? I think not. My mom always told us "waste not, want not". We all have a personal stake in the planet and how we choose to live affects us as well as others. Utilizing our resources appropriately and being responsible stewards of our Earth only makes sense.
We have talked before about "Reduce" & "Reuse". Now the third component of "Recyle".
It's a shame, but face it, we are a disposable society. When did it become normal and acceptable for us as a society to go along with sub standard products? These products aren't made to last. They are made to be replaced. They are made to be thrown away. Really? Yeah, really. What the heck. We used to manufacture products that lasted. The production costs in terms of the environment were a one time cost. These products weren't filling our landfills because they were still in use. And, therefore, recycling wasn't much of an issue either.
Now, I know we've had to change due to advancements in technology and more improved production techniques but have these "advancements" been good for us? For the environment? Probably not in most cases. Look at just the plastics industry. More oil is used in the plastics industry than for fueling our vehicles. (I was surprised by this, too). Are those in the plastics industry being the responsible parties that they should? How about the ones in China? In other countries with extremely lax or non-existent rules regarding the environment? Not clear is it? We are certainly not going to stop using plastics. Think about all of the different things we use that are made of plastics. Start with your computer, your phone, a good portion of your vehicle. What are we to do about it? It's everywhere.
Recycling all that we can is really the only thing that any of us can do to help lessen the overall impact. Since planned obsolescence isn't going to go away and it doesn't seem as though the majority of us care about sub-standard products, then we need to keep as much of this stuff out of the landfills as possible. The issue of lax manufacturers here and abroad is not going to change, especially abroad. It's all money driven. If there wasn't a monetary incentive for companies here to send the work over there, it would end very soon. In effect, we are allowing, contributing to, and encouraging our own demise. Sub-standard products, planned obsolescence, incentives to ignore the environment and the willingness to accept it (because it's cheap) just don't make sense. Recycling can and does help undo some of the damage, though.
As it relates to remodeling, we, at Paulson's, have been recycling for years. Metals are almost always recycled, we throw out as little wood scrap as possible, and most of the working components that are removed are transferred to organizations such as The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity so that they are "recycled". It only makes sense. There is a lot more that can be done when working on LARGE projects or for builders doing whole subdivisions. As remodelers, though, our projects are usually smaller and that scope doesn't always make sense like it does for some larger ones.
This is a complex topic that has many issues woven through it. This discussion is just one thread.
Your comments are welcome at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Ready to Remodel? Tax Credits can help.

Professional remodelers can help you cash in on energy efficiency tax credits for saving on remodeling expenses. These credits offer money back on installing energy efficiency improvements such as new windows, doors, insulation, roofing and more (see www.nahb.org/efficiencytaxcredit for more information). Professional remodelers may also know of additional local or state credits, rebates, and other methods of saving money on home remodel.
At Paulson's we are always willing to help in this area. The landscape is always changing and sometimes it seems like you're trying to hit a moving target. We might not have all of the answers, but we will get them to help you navigate through the maze so you can get the best benefit for your hard earned money. It is also a good idea to discuss strategies with your tax preparer ahead of time.
The end of 2010 also brings the end of many of the available credits. The time to act is now. It generally takes 4-6 weeks to get and install Pella windows, for instance. Don't wait until the last minute;Make your plans and let us help you execute them. Once we get close to the holiday season, timing always changes and manufacturers lead times are not always reliable.
Again, we're here to help. Let us. 517-545-8651 www.paulsonsconstruction.com

It's Deck Season

Summer is always the most popular time for decks. It's when we get the most calls and visit the most homes. You may not realize that decks are a very important structure. Not only in how they function for you but also in a safety sense. If a deck isn't built right, you have a serious problem on your hands. Decks should be built by a licensed professional and always with a permit. Yeah, you can save some money by hiring a guy working out of the back of his truck. But what happens if it goes wrong? Who's to blame? YOU ARE. The Building Department will tell you so. It happens more often than you might think. Being in the business, we see it an awful lot. It is costly, disruptive, time consuming, and a general pain to correct. Check out the photos. Don't let this happen to you. Call us. We will help make sure it is right and that it lasts. 517-545-8651 www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Homeshow Winner

Have you ever wondered if anyone actually wins the prizes from Homeshow vendors? It's all too easy to give your information away for a chance to win a prize, but do they actually give away the prize? Well, we do. This year it was a new high-tech Kohler toilet. This was not a $50 thing but more like a $400 thing. Yes, a $400 toilet that we gave away in our drawing from the Livingston County Homeshow. Thanks to all who participated and congrats to our winners who were from Howell, MI.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Why hire a professional remodeler?

Professional remodelers are more likely to belong to trade associations (such as The National Association of the Remodeling Industry or The National Association of Home Builders) where they benefit from education programs, acquiring knowledge and skills to run a better business and improve their home remodeling services. A remodeler in good standing can also provide references from past clients. They can also show examples of previous remodeling projects to give you a fell of the quality and style of their work.
Here, at Paulson's, we have been in the forefront of our associations for years. Paul has been a Board member of NARI of SE Michigan for years and currently serves as the Treasurer. Paul and others on the staff hold many designations from both NARI & NAHB. Paul is the only one in Michigan to hold the prestigious Graduate Master Remodeler designation.
Make the smartest investment in your home by hiring a professional remodeler. Hire Paulson's. We'll help you stay on budget, solve remodeling challenges, and provide a higher quality service. Visit us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com to learn more.

Ready to remodel?

We, as professional remodelers, have solid business skills and understand that remodeling is about providing excellent customer service. We set and take meetings and return phone calls to address customer concerns proactively. We prioritize customer satisfaction and take pride in our remodeling work. Our objective is to make sure your experience with us is a great one.
What can we do for you?
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Happy Memorial Day!

Our veterans and active duty United States military men & women deserve your time and thanks--especially today. In honor of their sacrifice, display the flag, say a prayer, attend a memorial, place a flower on a grave, donate items to be sent overseas, shake a hand, personally thank a vet, listen to "Before you go" at www.beforeyougo.us, teach a child about defending liberty, sponsor a POW/MIA event, resolve to support the VFW or Legion, call Rolling Thunder to lend a hand (810-632-6860), or visit a VA Hospital (Ann Arbor 734-769-5445).

Happy Memorial Day to you & yours!

Our son, Patrick, is leaving for the Navy soon. We wish him the best as he embarks on his military career.