1) Do you have to replace the entire roof?
The roof has most of the original clay tile on it from when the Bungalow was constructed in the early 1920s. Until work begins on the roof, we will not be certain as to what portions of the clay tiles are reusable. However, one of the goals of green renovation is to reuse or recycle as many of the building materials as possible. Therefore, the project hopes to reuse tiles on the roof when possible, or elsewhere on site if not possible. The unusable tiles may be ground up to be used as fill material for the new accessible ramp entrance or other possible onsite uses. When tiles are not reusable or recyclable onsite, the contractor will be encouraged to find alternative uses for them with landfilling them only as a last resort.
2) What type of insulation will be installed?
The Bungalow, like many bungalows in Chicago, has very little or no insulation. In order to improve the energy efficiency of a building and thus reduce utility bills and increase indoor comfort, it is very important to add insulation. The project intends to insulate using spray foam insulation in the attic space and select wall areas. This type of insulation is sprayed into wall cavities or the attic and expands while it dries. The project intends to achieve an R-39 insulation value in the attic space. Additionally the windows will be repaired retrofitted with insulated double glazed windows.
3) Is the original flooring usable?
In the main room several layers of tile were placed on top of the original wood flooring. Like with the clay tiles, we will not be certain as to the condition of the original wood flooring until the tiles are removed. However, it is unlikely that the original wood floor will be usable. The project intends to use a sustainable wood flooring material in its place such as bamboo.
4) Will the basement be available for use?
The basement will continue to be a storage area as it is now and will not be available for use.
5) When do you think the project will be complete?
We are hopeful that the project will be completed in early summer 2010.
