BEFORE YOU RENOVATE, FIND OUT WHICH ENERGY CODE YOUR TOWN FOLLOWS
Energy codes don't usually make dinner-table conversation — but on Cape Cod they increasingly shape renovation plans, heating choices and construction budgets. Every town from the bridges through Orleans, plus Provincetown, follows the Stretch Energy Code. Outer Cape towns from Eastham to Truro have gone further, adopting the Specialized code that generally requires all-electric new construction. Depending on where you live and how big your project is, that can mean whole-house energy modeling, added documentation, or an electrical service upgrade you hadn't budgeted for.
"Understanding the Energy Code" explains what triggers what, weighs heat pumps honestly against gas and oil as Mass Save rebates recede and electric rates climb, and ends with a homeowner checklist worth reading before you call anyone.
Make Your Voice Heard on Building Codes at Upcoming Hearings
The International Code Council is in the midst of its 2024-2026 development cycle, and the upcoming Group B Committee Action Hearings (April 27-May 6 in Orlando, FL) offer an important opportunity for builders, remodelers, and industry professionals to have a voice in the process. Some of the key proposals up for review could significantly impact…
Tariff Update: Canadian Lumber Exempt from New U.S. Tariffs—A Win for Builders
On April 2, President Trump announced a new global tariff policy imposing a 10% baseline tariff on imports from most countries, with elevated rates up to 50% for certain nations. Notably, Canada and Mexico are exempt from these new tariffs, a significant relief for the U.S. homebuilding industry. Canada supplies approximately 85% of U.S. softwood…
At Home Media Kit 2025
Discover At Home Magazine Cape Cod: Your Ultimate Guide to Home Building, Remodeling, and Improvement Decisions At Home Magazine Cape Cod offers valuable insights and inspiration for your dream home or upcoming remodel. Published biannually, our magazine reaches a wide audience across Cape Cod, with 11,000 units distributed per issue. Distribution: Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter issues…
Tariffs
The past six weeks have been a roller coaster regarding tariffs. As of today, no new tariffs have been imposed on Canadian lumber. However, April 2nd is a key date when a potential 25% increase could take effect. Twice this year, tariffs were implemented only to be removed shortly after. Other materials are experiencing price…
New Energy Code in Effect
New energy code went into effect Feb 14th. Big Changes Coming to the Stretch & Specialized Energy Codes! The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has proposed updates to the Stretch and Specialized Energy Codes based on feedback from the past year and a half. Key changes for residential construction include new HERS credit…
Michael English House & Skilled Purpose Program
At the February Dinner Meeting, Vincent English introduced Skilled Purpose, a new nonprofit training program tackling Cape Cod’s skilled labor shortage. With 264 unfilled carpenter positions annually and no local training programs, the Michael English House, Inc. is bridging the gap with a 12-week carpentry program designed for individuals in recovery and those reentering society…
Understanding the Energy Code: What You Need to Know
Building codes constantly evolve, and staying compliant with the latest energy code is crucial for contractors, architects, and homeowners alike. These regulations ensure buildings are designed to be more energy-efficient, reducing waste and cutting costs in the long run. Understanding the current energy code can be complex when navigating insulation requirements, HVAC efficiency, or air…
SV Design Welcomes Anne Marie Garcia as Director of Business Development & Marketing
SV Design, a leading Architect + Build firm with offices in Beverly, Chatham, and Winchester, MA, has announced an exciting new addition to their team. Anne Marie Garcia, LEED AP, has joined as the Director of Business Development & Marketing, bringing with her a wealth of experience in architecture, interiors, and product design. This strategic…
A Special Thank You from Garry Prevedini, U.S. Lumber Co.
“To the many builders, remodelers, dealer personnel, architects and manufacturers reps I have worked with over the 42 years I have covered the Cape Cod and S.E. Mass market, I want to say ‘THANK YOU!’ After 47 years in our industry, I’ll be retiring at the end of February. It has been a pleasure and an honor to work…
ADU Regulations Update
Our mission at the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape Cod (HBRACC) is to support and empower building professionals across the region. We do this by providing resources, advocacy, and opportunities that drive the growth and success of the local building industry. In this month’s update, we’re excited to share a critical regulatory development,…