LOL, honestly we need more people like you to develop their energy-ego also.

Being conscious about energy efficiency will not only benefit us from lesser heating/air conditioning expenses but would also have a great impact on the environment once a lot of people become aware about it and actually do something (like what you’re doing) and practice discretion on their home improvement related purchases.

Good on you

Thanks!

The project described in the blog is a residential project. As such I had to use CISP in all concealed (underground) areas, but can use PVC above ground for the Drain, Waste, Vent (DWV) piping. Hot and cold water will require copper as far as I know. I have no knowledge of the commercial code requirements.

And yes, the Chicago plumbing union is resisting the modernization of the code. But there is also an issue in many cases with the States Health Department, which prevents the use of more sustainable plumbing technologies. If the State has not signed of or approved some of the more environmental technologies, the City cannot approve them either.

I just came across the above post stating that pvc can now be used for ALL drain above and below grade, but cast iron still must be used under ground. Hopefully a licensed plumber can confirm this? Is this a recent code change(when?) and does it in fact apply to commercial properties?

The plumbing union has had strong clout in Chicago and has been against pvc vs other cities, mostly due to the ease of use, less cost, and loss of business, so I am surprised if this is true. I was about to pay a very steep price to replace a very long run of drain cast iron pipes that run above basement ground, so I am praying this is true!

Thanks!!!

I understand that you need to have jambs installed in the brick opening, which than can receive the replacement window. Something we will have to do in the basement, but not on the 1st and 2nd floor, because of the existing jambs there.

Regarding the insulation: I would refer you to the insulation posts, starting with
Insulation - how it started
Insulation - lots of conflicts
Insulation - starts with moisture management
Insulation - which material cuts it?
Insulation - how much is needed?

I am sure I will have follow up posts on this topic, which is also constantly evolving.

My wife and I have an old neglected house that we’re working on. (In Edgewater) We’re trying to do many of the things you seem to be doing as well. I’m in the Window-Hunt right now as well. I’ll be very interested to see your choice. Do those companies have mounting systems for masonry buildings? It seems like most of the window companies really don’t know how to deal w/ solid brick walls…

Are you looking at American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) ratings as well?

Also, have you decided what kind of material you’ll use for insulating the main building structure? I’ve been looking at closed cell foam. It’s expensive, but seems to be about the best choice for reducing air infiltration.

And thanks for the blog. It’s a great resource.