The “net-zero” home in Durham that we have been working on is not only trying to reduce their expenditures later by utilizing energy saving construction but they are also saving money during the framing process by using advanced framing techniques.  Advanced framing techniques (also called Optimum Value Engineering) start with a well thought out framing design that considers common lumber and sheet sizes. This reduces was ... Read full post »
Radiant Floor Heat
One of the most cost effective ways to install a radiant heating system is to embed the tubing in a concrete slab. Here you can see the hydronic lines over the insulation boards. After the lines were placed it was time to pour the concrete. The concrete will be smoothed and prepared for a polished finish. Â A polished concrete floor is a gorgeous alternative to other floor coverings allowing our homeowner to make the most of their ... Read full post »
Clean Energy Durham!
Last night we had the pleasure of attending the launch party for Clean Energy Durham‘s “2030 Society.” Clean Energy Durham is an amazing grass-roots organization  made up of volunteers committed to learning about saving energy and teaching their neighbors how to do the same.  They recently contacted Synergy and asked if we would be interested in becoming founding members of their “2030 Society.” The 203 ... Read full post »
Now is the Time for SOLAR!
Anyone interested in Solar? This article makes a good argument that if you’re thinking of installing either a solar water heating system, or a residential photovoltaic electric generating solar system, that the time to act is now! Take a look. ... Read full post »
Should You Seal Your Attic?
Synergy Building Company has built quite a few sealed crawlspaces. Generally, whenever we are building a new home, or putting on a new addition, we strongly recommend that the crawlspace be sealed and semi-conditioned space. This is also the case with sealing attic spaces. The advantage of keeping HVAC equipment and ducts in a semi-conditioned space makes sense for a lot of reasons. Now, we are finding more interest in sealing existing ... Read full post »