Mike Holmes made another special appearance last Saturday here in Chestermere to promote his “Holmes Approved Program”. Two local builders invited Holmes take part in the information session geared for anyone wishing to learn about the program and the distinguishing features of an “Approved Home”.
I had the opportunity to sit and chat with Holmes while people started lining up to meet the Canadian celebrity at the East Lakeview show home. Holmes has a very gentle personality. He immediately recognized me from our previous interview so I quickly welcomed him back to Chestermere. He called Alberta his home.
Although he doesn’t live here or own a home here, he’s toying with a few different places to build. “I like this area, I really do because of the lake. It’s a great area, it’s not far from the city and I’m a boater, I love to boat” he shared.
Holmes is very passionate when talking “Approved Builders”. There are 31 Holmes Approved Builders across Canada and he says “there are so many good builders in the Alberta area, I really like Lifestyle Homes, I like Westridge, they build really nice homes, they all do but I do have my favorites”. Mike is impressed by the designs and layouts that these builders offer in their plans. I asked Mike what could be expected when purchasing a home from an approved builder. “big differences, we’re talking about different insulation methods, mold resistant products, 0-VOC’s and everything about them as being smart”. The approved builders are all aware of elements that can make a home an unhealthy place to be like radon or mold. The homes are all documented throughout the construction stage and special attention is given to what you can’t see rather that emotional components like counter tops paint or flooring. The homes will have higher quality windows and doors, more fire rated material, low VOC (volatile organic compound) products. You can also expect better insulating products and more mold resistant materials.
Mike finished the interview by giving me some tips for preparing a home for the winter. “First of all and most important” he recommends, is maintaining proper attic insulation. Most heat loss occurs through the ceiling during the winter and attention should also be given to ensuring proper ventilation in this space. Another area that should be given attention is the building envelope. This includes caulking around doors and windows as well as any penetrations through the exterior walls. Keeping the walls weather tight can also reduce heat loss.
You can learn more about “Approved Builders” by visiting www.holmesapprovedbuilders.com or www.makeitright.ca.
