Give us some background on your company. What do you do and why do you do it? Ivy Tools supplies instruments to test and diagnose issues of building performance. These tools enable contractors, inspectors, energy auditors, HVAC technicians, and homeowners to answer tough...

Our last post about this Healthy, Energy-Efficient, and Durable home in Penn Laird, Va was several months ago in March. Since that time, the builder, Trost Custom Homes, has been busy adding siding, stone, garage, and starting some interior space framing.  

1      Plant a shade tree. A tree absorbs carbon dioxide, improves air quality, and controls flooding by minimizing runoff and topsoil loss. If located right it can offer free air conditioning on a sunny day for you and your home. 2      Switch all your light bulbs to LEDs (or at...

An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is the system used for energy recovery by exchanging the energy contained in air exhausted from the building and using it to treat (pre-conditioned) the incoming outdoor ventilation air in residential and commercial HVAC systems. (So it is...

In the construction industry, like many others, there are many certifications, professional designations, and credentials. So does it add value to you for your project? How do you know it shows added expertise? Should I hire someone who does not have a particular certification?...

Building Code: set of standards established and enforced by local government for the structural safety of buildings. The building code is simply a set of rules that set minimum standards for construction of structures – the absolute worst possible construction allowed by...

Home Automation is the residential version of building automation. It may include control of lighting, Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, appliances, door locks, stereo, window shades, cameras, or security systems. Home automation can increase the quality of life...

Duke Gardens is a student apartment building in Harrisonburg. The goal for this project was to update the exterior aesthetics of the building to make it more competitive in the rental market for students. The project is now in process. Let us know what you think. Before Proposed...

The thermal envelope is the barrier used to protect your interior environment from heat transfer from inside to outside. It may be portions of the exterior envelope and portions of interior elements. The effectiveness of this barrier is dependent on insulation levels, air...

Designing your dream home - Steps to Success in Design