The Iowa Renewable Energy Association (I-Renew) is a membership based, nonprofit organization dedicated to educating Iowans about renewable energy.

The Friends of Historic Preservation in Iowa City runs the "Architectural Salvage Barn," full of affordable salvage items. A partial list of the items in stock includes:

• Doors

• Floors
• Windows
• Plumbing
• Trim, and
• Hardware

They also stock some specialty items like a full wood stairway and a beautiful wood pediment.

The Des Moines Woodworkers Association is a non-profit association dedicated to education, community service, and sharing of knowledge for those of all ages and skill levels in the field of woodworking.

Dig safely!

Iowa law requires that any person (including homeowners, professionals, and public or private entities) planning any type of excavation work within the state of Iowa, must notify the Iowa One Call notification system at least 48 hours prior to excavating. Iowa One Call will come to the site to mark the locations of all buried utilities.

To arrange for this FREE service, call 1-800-292-8989.

The Home Builders Association can be a great place to start the search for a remodeling contractor. The HBA has a "Remodelers Council" specfically for general contractors who specialize in managing renovation projects.

Channel 13 has an extensive section of "how to" articles and checklists for every type of renovation project.

This is my blog of our 1918 bungalow on the east side of Des Moines, near Union Park. Come along with us through the trials of a home restoration and renovation. Lots of pictures!

Neighborhood Finance Corporation is a non-profit corporation that focuses on lending and housing development in targeted Des Moines Neighborhoods. Programs include forgivable home repair loans, forgivable down payment assistance, and renovation of existing homes for sale. Lending programs are geographically qualified, not income qualified - anyone who wants to move into a designated neighborhood is eligible for consideration.