Update: December 2003

GLREA's new headquarters has been designated as a state Energy Demonstration Center. The renovation features how a two-story 1897 G.A.R. Civil War Memorial Hall can be restored with 21st century technology. At the completion of the first floor in September 2003, the center became the home to GLREA's offices, showroom, and training center.

The State of Michigan Energy Office provided a $12,500 grant to begin the exhibit development process as well as a $6,000 grant to install a Solar PV Demonstration System on the roof. DTE Energy gave $15,000 to help GLREA acquire the building and Dave Lankheet of Sundu Solar has provided many volunteer hours managing the renovation project.

Project highlights

The Roof

The previous bituminous membrane roof was improperly installed and, along with clogged gutters, caused extensive water damage to the north and south parapet walls. Spartan Roofing of Holt was hired to repair the membrane roofing and restore the roof hatch to usefulness. David Lankheet and Adam McDonely cleaned and repaired the gutters.

Brick Veneer

The brick veneer was not attached to the wood frame walls and was in need of repair. The arches over the doors and windows were cracked, the west wall showed veneer bowing, the chimneys were in poor condition, and the brick needed protection from further damage. Tanner Construction worked through the winter to restore the exterior of the building. Tuck pointing was done as needed to the bricks, steel lintel was installed, the chimneys were cleaned and caped, steel plates were added to connect the west wall to the wood frame, and the entire building was sprayed with sealant. The back wall was covered with grout stucco and a window was installed. The historical graffiti was left intact on the bricks.

Basement

The basement was a damp Michigan basement. Water collected on the floor and the crawl space portion showed severe water damage. To solve the water problem, the gutters were cleaned, rainwater from the roof was directed away from the basement and the sump pump was repaired. Adam McDonely cleaned up and enlarged the crawl space and a vapor barrier was placed over the portion of dirt floor. The steps down to the basement were another story. After knocking our heads on a header joist a few times, David Lankheet heightened and braced the supporting beams. The basement walls and ceiling were sprayed with foam sealant to give an R-11 rating and to isolate the basement from the rest of the building.

Heating System

We were fortunate enough to have an energy efficient 90% plus furnace already in place. With a regular tune-up performed by Adam's Heating & Cooling of Lansing, it was ready to go. David Lankheet, his son Paul and Brian Taylor replaced and properly sealed and insulated the old ductwork.

Plumbing System

The old plumbing was cast iron waste plumbing, which was rusted out, and steel supply plumbing. There were no plumbing lines or fixtures. New waste lines were placed and all new copper plumbing was installed to water conserving fixtures. A new electric water heater was also installed.

Electrical

The existing wiring was knob and tube with few operating fixtures, which were not to code. The entire building was rewired to code with a modern communications system and energy efficient lighting. 

Thanks also to Jim Bates, of Bates Electric, Inc. for his timely assistance and for traveling in from Ortonville to help Dave with the prep work.

A photovoltaic electric system has been added. See PV System Facts.

Interior Walls

The walls were un-insulated wood frame without exterior sheathing. Because there was no practical way to insulate the existing walls, it was decided to keep the interior sheathing and lath in place to maintain structural integrity. Steel studs were installed on interior walls and John Savaro, of Eagle Tec in Grand Rapids and Stony Creek Services in Ypsilanti sprayed a foam insulation to give a R-19 value rating.

Interior Work

Carl and Gary Cranson of Ledge Home Improvement in Grand Ledge was the general contractor and provided most of the interior improvements. The walls were covered with gypsum wallboard and the original wood trim was used as much possible. A kitchenette and bathroom were added and we finally had running water! They also added R-19 insulation in the ceiling between the first and second floors. A library area with wood book selves is in place. This area will have books and videos and be a resource center for our members.

The wood ceiling had to be sealed, the whole place painted with low VOC paint, and all the wood stained and sealed with water-based products. This work was done with the help of many volunteers. Thanks very much to Aileen Gow, Susan Barnes and Jim Beaver, Karen and David Lankheet, Patti Witte, the Day-LaBo Family, Jennifer Alvarado, John Richter, David Haviland, and Sue Warren. We would never have gotten done without you!

Before		After

Bo and Mike Floor Refinishers stripped and sealed the original wood floor in the front main room. This alone is worth the trip in to see!

The storefront windows have been replaced by Low E glass from Comfort Line. This not only help insulates, but also cuts down greatly on traffic noise.

The official grand opening occurred on September 27, 2003. See article on grand opening.

Tours are available upon request. We currently have no set open hours. Call to arrange a time to visit the center.                                       

Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association
URL: www.glrea.org
Email: info@glrea.org
Lansing:
(517) 646.6269
Toll Free:
1.800.434.9788

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GLREA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and contributions may be tax deductable.