Practical Precautions

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There's almost nothing more frightening to a homeowner than the threat of fire. This fall's Fourmile and other fires were not caused by the individual homeowners they affected, but they've got us thinking about what we can do to secure our homes. Here are 10 things you can do to prevent fire in your home.

© Glenn Slingsby | Dreamstime.com

Fall FAQ

• Q: Why Does a "green" home cost more? A: Click here to read the answer.
• Q: How can I figure out if my remodel will pay off at sales time? A: Click here to read the answer.
• Q: Do I need to have a professional file my building permit ? A: Click here to read the answer.

Do you have a building or remodeling question? Ask Larry. 

Consider the Source

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We've all seen the infomercials and heard the warnings about toxic environmental hazards like asbestos and lead paint. We've also been warned about the depletion of the rainforests. Staying educated about green building materials can protect not only the environment outside, but it can also create a more healthy environment for you and your family inside your home.

A builder in Eagle County had complete liver failure at the tender age of 43 and was convinced the liver failed because of toxins in the homes he lived in and had built.

After that he had strict rules for his life and the houses he built: no smoking within 100 feet of the building, only natural cleaners were to be used, and no harsh chemicals in the paints, varnishes, carpets, floorings or other constituents of the home. 

He went as far as importing mouldings from Italy to be confident his homes would not contain some of the common wood treatments and finishes typically used in the United States; however importing materials like this builder did can be costly.

You don't have to go outside the U.S.

to get safe products. Green building materials are becoming more readily available than ever.

Did you know it's still legal to import products containing asbestos?

Here's what you can do to make your home more "green". 

We are often excited about projects we are working on. This one takes us outdoors! We're doing a landscaping project here in Boulder. Hot tub. Outdoor kitchen. It's a Boulder fantasy.

Fred Bivrell, one of our designers, is taking the lead on this project. "The client likes it because it creates one more living area, a virtual outdoor room," he says. It has a grill, refrigerator, counter top and has plenty of seating areas. There are planting beds and a large, private hot tub with a view. A river-rock wall plus pavers create a courtyard feel. "A chance to create an outdoor environment is always fun, and the client seems very happy, which is a joy," says Bivrell.

A Boulder fixture for more than fifty years, McGuckin sells sporting goods, housewares, plumbing, electrical, tools, garden, automotive, paints, fireplace, garden, electronics, hobbies, patio & lawn, hardware, pet supplies and more. Their green-vested associates are the best free advice in town. The store is fun to stroll for inspiration with your partner or just your dog!

McGuckin Hardware

2525 Arapahoe  

Boulder CO, 8032

303-443-1822

Referrals This Summer

• Ed Glassgow, Scott Cox & Associates, Inc.
• Maribeth Pili, Specialty Appliance

Larry Parrish, President of Parrish Construction, CR, CGR, GACP CAPS was featured in the June 10-23  edition of the Boulder County Business Report. In this monthly pull-out special section titled, "Distintive Homes of the Boulder Valley,"  Larry's photo was on the cover and Larry was quoted, along with other distinguished local builders. See our press page and click on the article to view the PDF. One of our trade partners and architect, Mark Queripel, of MQ Architectecture and Design was also quoted.