I got the question last week, can we make a particular style energy-efficient. There is a common misconception that energy-efficient design dictates a particular style. When the reality is there is no style that cannot be created in a healthy, energy-efficient, and durable...

Getting an energy audit for you home is a relatively new concept. This process will highlight the problems in your home that you can address for more energy-efficiency. Using a thermal image camera is the key to “seeing” the problems. This blog shows the tools function.

The clients have moved into their Penn Laird dream home, built by Trost Custom Homes. Here is the last group of construction photos. Let us know what you think of their dream home. Here are the other updates: Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4  

The SVBA Home and Garden Show is scheduled for April 12-13 at the Rockingham County Fair Grounds again this year. Join the event for the annual car show, beer garden, SPCA Adoption Center, BBQ Chicken, food court, and to get your home renovation / construction questions answered....

I believe that design is one of the most critical elements of thinking we have to build a brighter future. We can create spaces for living, working, and playing that enhances our lives and our community. We know how to design homes that are easily 30% – 50% more efficient...

Comfort issues in your home are often caused by things behind the walls. Air tight and vapor permeable is a known goal for any home that is built today to a higher standard. We want comfort in our rooms, even temperatures, and lower electric bills. It is important to get the...

Sloped ceilings are a common solution when trying to maximize a space. This photo was taken in a carriage house that was renovated into a living quarters. What are the issues in this space that can cause comfort issues in the rest of the home? We see the same condition in rooms...

Going green when building a sustainable home is the first step in ensuring you are helping your environment and your wallet for years to come. How are your eco-friendly decisions benefiting your home? It is easy to dismiss making a decision that protects forests in South America...

There are many terms used to describe a home that is built to a higher standard, green, sustainable, LEED Certified, and EarthCraft Certified to name a few. EarthCraft is a regional green rating system that has been adopted across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Projects that...

The attic is a very important part of the thermal envelope. Especially in a mixed humid climate like we have here in Central Virginia. This picture identifies a common problem that we find in the majority of the homes we visit. No insulation above the attic access. Whether it is...