This is the stage when you select the items that have the biggest impact on the efficiency of your home. While some may be visible (windows and doors), others will soon be behind walls and, if selected well, rarely thought about again (heating, air conditioning, electrical and plumbing).

You’ve likely heard the phrase, "Penny wise and Pound foolish", or as we like to paraphrase, "Pay now or Pay later." We will guide you along the way to make the best selections within your budget. We will also let you know when we think your choices will cost you more with regard to your utility bills and what choices may help you offset the initial cost of higher efficiency products.

Windows. We primarily use Anderson and Eagle brand windows because we are pleased with their construction and warranty and have had a good track record with them. They both offer an array of sizes, shapes, colors and styles that will compliment your home. Window material choices also affect the degree of long-term maintenance required.

All our homes include low emissive (Low-E)/UV rated windows that reduce the amount of heat entering the interior, thus causing a need for increased cooling. These windows also reduce the level of ultraviolet radiation-the culprit that fades furniture, rugs and hardwood flooring. During window installation, our crews "hang" your windows with manufacturer approved fasteners. We then caulk, tape and flash them to prevent water and air infiltration.

Doors. Therma-Tru, Eagle and Anderson doors are our brand of choice. However, we will consider other leading door brands based on your preference. Whether your home calls for a grand entrance or a traditional threshold, we will help you select a door and sidelight package that enhances the look of your home. For doors, we "set" them in place and attach them with approved fasteners. They are caulked, taped and flashed as well to prevent water and air infiltration-just like your windows.

Heating and Cooling. The "behind-the-walls" ventilation and ductwork system is highly regulated by the local building code. However, there are many choices that you can make regarding your choice of systems. You will meet with our HVAC subcontractor and he will have already reviewed your plans and have some ideas based on his expertise. Options will be explained for you to consider. Vast strides have been made in efficiency over the past few years with newer products offering noticeable energy savings.

The South Carolina climate may be different than what you have experienced in other parts of the country. It’s important that you understand the choices that make the best sense here. Some of these are: heat pump vs. gas heat, air filter types, system sizes and locations, preferred brands and warranties.

We make sure that the systems you select are sized correctly for your home. We want you to be comfortable throughout the year in any extremes of temperature change.

Electrical. Again, the "behind-the-walls" wiring must be completed according to the building code. It is paramount to correctly size the electrical panels for the needs of the home, including outside deck and porch requirements as well as a boat dock if one is planned.

You will meet with our Electrical Sub-contractor. Beyond code requirements, you will mark in any special needs you might have, such as:

• Floor outlets
• Special placement for holiday decorations
• Entertainment systems/audio or video wiring placement
• Security

Plumbing. We generally install CPVC and PVC lines for all plumbing applications. The difference lies only in its resistance to pressure for drain line, vent pipes and drainage systems. On occasion we have installed copper piping and WIRSBO PEX systems upon customer request.

We also install, upon client request, recent plumbing innovations such as in-line (tank-less) water heaters. We are very familiar with new product offerings and guide you through the selection process.

Organ Transplants. Mistakes made by builders in the Rough-In stage can lead to a need for "organ transplants" down the road. We, and our experienced sub-contractor partners, work together with you to make sure that the correct choices are made the first time. Our quality and professional installation eliminates the need for costly, time consuming and, most often, unnecessary repairs or replacement later.