SHOP TALK: Cool tools, great websites and news you can use

TALK BACK! Know of an open house, book, website or tool you'd like to share with Shop Talk readers? Send details to homes@jacksonville.com or call (904) 359-4628.

OPEN HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Listed for $319,900, the brick home at 2467 Sedgwick Place sits in one of Jacksonvilles most sought-after neighborhoods. With three bedrooms and four baths in 2,844 square feet, its many features include an all-new eat-in kitchen, two custom master baths and guest bath, new carpet, energy-efficient windows and fresh paint. The backyard is bordered by a brick/concrete wall to provide privacy. To see more, attend an open house today, July 12, from 1-3 p.m. or call Anita King of EXIT Magnolia Point Realty at (904) 607-1321.

For a rundown of area open houses, both today and in coming weeks, visit http://bit.ly/NEFAR_Open or go to http://www.nefar.com.

TIP OF THE WEEK

Dan Copeland, a JEA customer solutions field representative and a member of the Northeast Florida Builders Association E-Council, sent along a few energy-saving tips for those who are considering building a new home.

First up is some advice on radiant barriers. Copeland says not all Jacksonville builders install radiant barriers in their new homes, so inquire about the option. A radiant barrier is a thin layer of reflective metal laminated to the roof decking. It helps reduce the heat transferred to the duct work from the hot roof, ultimately reducing a homes cooling costs. Cooling is the largest part of most electricity bills in the Jacksonville area. A radiant-barrier upgrade to an existing home is difficult to justify due to higher costs. However, in new construction it takes no additional time to install, and the upgrade cost is far lower, usually less than $1,000 per home.

Next week, look for Dans advice on picking a heating and cooling system. For more tips, contact him at copede@jea.com, or visit jea.com/green.

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SHOP TALK: Cool tools, great websites and news you can use