Asheville NC Custom Builder

Save Money Today On New Home Construction In Asheville

2010-09-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Let Advantage Development Co. save you money today on new home construction here in the Asheville area. We build multi-family/commercial projects and as such are able to employ the highest quality, most reasonably priced sub contractors in this area. By us saving money on our subs and suppliers we directly roll those savings over to you as a Luxury Home Builder, Buyer.

We build new homes and land/home packages for clients in the Asheville area on a flat cost plus 15% basis. We are actually getting our materials and subs at prices that are 10-30% below normal rates in this area due to the fact that we are a volume builder on our multi-family projects. By contracting with us today you will get that new home built cheaper and of a higher quality than you would normally in this area. Call us at (828)-215-9064 or visit us at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more.

Spring Is Almost Here and New Home Starts are on The Rise

2010-03-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

Spring is almost here and the new home market is heating up. Since construction starts are on the rise the lumber manufacturers have all raised lumber costs by a substantial amount. We are seeing an increase of new home starts with our company and the deals that had existed on lots are almost all gone, the great deals anyway.

We still have some of the best deals on new home packages in the Asheville area. As a certified green building professional recognized by the NAHB & LEED we build all of our new homes to a standard that is at least 30% more energy efficient than a code built home. Our new weekly cable TV show on green building called "Green on Green" will start in April and we will have the same Saturday time slot of 5PM for at least the first six months the show airs. Please visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ and contact us at (828)-215-9064 for any further questions.

What Is A "Turn-Key" Design/Build Custom Builder?

2010-02-12T14:44:00.000-08:00

Advantage Development Co. is the only true "turn-key" design/build custom high-end builder in the Asheville NC area. As a local builder and licensed real estate broker we are intimate with the most exclusive mountain properties & gated communities in this area. We can handle of of the land/lot negotiations and save you more money on your custom land/home package.

We only work with award winning architects or our own design staff for that custom dream home you desire. As award winning master builders and now certified green builders by NAHB & LEED we can bring your dream home to reality in a short period of time. Call us or visit us today at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more about us and why we build the absolute best homes.

Why Go Hybrid Modular Construction for That Next Custom Home?

2010-02-07T17:36:00.000-08:00

We love building hybrid modular construction for our smaller, green built and green certified custom built homes. By getting a large portion of the custom home built in one of our many factories we can specify the exact manner and conditions under which your new home is built. We can also incorporate many more "green" features into the home at a fraction of the cost that it would cost to do on site while stick building. In our opinion, there are no negatives with custom modular home construction in today's market if using the best companies to build your modules.

The total time it takes us to build a home is reduced from 6 to 8 months to around 3 to 4 months since many actions are happening simultaneously. The modular factory builds the modules while we are installing the foundations, this cuts construction time greatly. Also, bad weather is no longer a major concern. All trim out of home, decks, porches and site built garages are site done after the modules are set on the foundation. Our modular hybrid homes are all built to a high green standard and are typically 30% to 40% more energy efficient than a code built home. Visit us today at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more about us and why we build better custom homes.

We Can Easily Make Your New Home 10% More Energy Efficient

2009-10-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

In a typical American home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 16% of total annual energy expenditures, a little more than for air conditioning, on a national-average basis, and twice as much as is used for refrigerators. An average American family pumps nearly 3,000 pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year from heating water. New Energy Star standards are dictating that electric hot water heaters in new homes are very energy efficient and only the new Heat Pump style electric water heaters make the cut.

Rheem is one of the manufacturers of one of the new heat pump style water heaters that we really like for its efficiency and minimal cost over traditional hot water heaters. Remember, the two easiest ways to reduce your energy use for hot water are to a) use less hot water, and b) reduce heat loss in your water heating and hot water distribution systems by properly insulating your hot water pipes within the non conditioned space. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom home builder in Asheville NC now in our second decade of building fine custom homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Why ICFs Make for a Better Insulated Home

2009-10-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

Homes built with ICFs look the same as conventional new homes both inside and out. ICFs, or Insulated Concrete Forms, are forms or molds that have built-in insulation for accepting reinforced concrete. ICF structures are built using conventional house plans and refined with conventional exterior finishes. So, what makes them different from timber-based ones? Several things, reinforced concrete homes have the following advantages over wood structures: constant temperatures that do not give access to drafts or cold spots, non toxic: no CFCs, HCFCs, or formaldehyde, a 2-hour fire rating, termite and pest resistant, can withstand severe storm hits, no rotting or molding, can support concrete floor and roof systems, help eliminate outside noise, and require an estimated 44% less energy to heat and 32% less energy to cool than comparable frame houses.

Building with concrete helps save trees, reduces residential heating and cooling costs, and also reduces landfill construction waste. Advantage Development Co. is a master certified green building professional here to serve all of your building and real estate needs in Asheville NC. Visit us today at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more about why we build better homes while saving the planet.

Air Quality is Important in that New Home

2009-09-20T03:20:00.000-07:00

Indoor air pollution, the degradation of indoor air quality by harmful chemicals and other materials, can be up to 10 times worse than outdoor air pollution. This is because contained areas enable potential pollutants to build up more than open spaces do. With new homes being built tighter and more energy efficient, this can be a real concern. If you do not analyze all of the actual building materials that go into your home you could be breathing in toxic chemicals for years to come after moving into that nice, new home.

You may think indoor air pollution does not apply to you. After all, you live nowhere near a highway, farm or industrial plant. You do not smoke and you do not use a wood-burning stove. But indoor air pollution comes from some places you would not normally think of, like your house (building materials), the land it is sitting on (radon leakage, here in the mountains) and everyday items you can purchase at the store (chemical cleaning agents). In addition, if you consider that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, and around 65 percent inside their homes in particular, you can see why indoor air pollution is an important issue. Advantage Development Co. is a certified green home builder and can build you that new home while assuring you indoor air quality (IAQ) will be of the highest levels possible on a new home in the Asheville area. Visit us today at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more about us, and why we build better homes.

Asheville Builder shares about Tax Credit Changes

2009-09-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

First off, let me start by saying that North Carolina state government has renewed the 35% renewable energy tax credit for active solar, PV, passive solar, and other renewable energy systems. Coupled with the 30% federal tax credit (which now thanks to the stimulus has no cap for individuals), this is now a 65% off discount on these technologies if you pay enough taxes to use the credits. Remember, tax credits are directly subtracted from the tax amount you owe the feds and state, and you can roll the deduction forward for up to five years if you fail to use it all in the first year.

The major new change is that geothermal has been added to the list of renewables for the first time. There is a cap, but it is pretty high ($8400 on the credit) so many small/medium systems will not reach the cap. At 65% off, the price of a geothermal system can look a lot like the price for a high-efficiency air-source heat pump. And a geothermal system with a water to water heat exchanger to replace a boiler system powered by oil or propane can look like a fast payback. I will not just throw out numbers because different home sites will vary a lot, but if you pay taxes, geothermal should be very seriously considered for both new homes and upgrades of existing homes. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and custom home building.

Asheville Builder shares on Exterior Wall Debate

2009-08-27T03:22:00.000-07:00

There has been an ongoing debate about energy efficiency of exterior walls (2x4 or 2x6), which is better? In terms of wood used, if both have the same stud spacing, the 2x6 obviously uses more wood. But if you can go up to 24inch on center for the 2x6 walls, it is about the same volume of wood used. (About 1/3 less due to spacing, but 1/3 more due to thickness). Some drywall installers complain, but there is no problem here, sheetrock does just fine with 24inch spacing of studs.

In terms of R-value, 2x4 will get you between R-13 and R-15 for most cavity insulations, and 2x6 can give you R-19 to 23. From an insulation standpoint, you're obviously better off with the higher R-value. Another option is to use 2x4 walls but apply a rigid foam board to the exterior sheathing, thus upping the R-value of a 2x4 wall to about R-18. This can also be done for 2x6 walls, giving you a new R-Value of about R-24. There are some considerations when using exterior foam board that relate to attachment of your siding so be careful. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning builder here in Asheville always ready to discuss design considerations with our new home clients. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville Custom Builder Explains FSC Certification

2009-08-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

The Forest Stewardship Council was created to change the dialogue about and the practice of sustainable forestry worldwide. This impressive goal has in many ways been achieved, yet there is more work to be done. FSC sets forth principles, criteria, and standards that span economic, social, and environmental concerns. The FSC standards represent the world’s strongest system for guiding forest management toward sustainable outcomes. Like the forestry profession itself, the FSC system includes stakeholders with a diverse array of perspectives on what represents a well-managed and sustainable forest. While the discussion continues, the FSC standards for forest management have now been applied in over 57 countries around the world. Advantage Development Co. is a certified green custom home builder in Asheville NC and always strives to only use FSC certified wood in the fine homes we build. Visit us today at www.AdvDevCo.com to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks Green Cabinetry

2009-08-12T03:03:00.001-07:00

What is the difference between a conventional kitchen cabinet and one that is green certified? They all look the same but if you have done your homework you will know that there is a difference. Green products do not pollute your home with unhealthy chemicals and they are made using materials that take the environment into account. Some day eco-friendly cabinets will be the norm, but as of now we need to look a little harder to find products that are truly green. Green kitchen cabinets may cost more because not all manufacturers are using FSC certified hardwood or formaldehyde-free substrates. Certified Wood has been certified by an independent third-party to indicate that it has been grown and harvested using environmentally responsible practices. FSC indicates that wood has met environmental forest management standards.

What makes a kitchen healthy? Most cabinets are not very health-friendly. Most of them are made from ply-wood or pressboard covered with a veneer or a laminate. Plywood and pressboard are glued together, most often with glue that contains formaldehyde, which gives off noxious fumes. Cabinets are a major source of pollution in your home. Often wood used in cabinet-making comes from an environmentally unsustainable and sometimes illegal source. It will be up you to use to ask for products that do not contain unhealthy substances such as urea formaldehyde and vinyl. Be prepared to insist that your wood is FSC certified or that reclaimed woods are being used. Advantage Development Co. has been an award winning custom builder in Asheville since 1990 and likes educating clients on home building materials such as green cabinetry. Visit us today at www.AdvDevco.com to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Net Zero Homes

2009-08-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

By 2015, if General Electric has their way, all our homes will be running on smart grids with mini-turbines and solar panels to produce electricity, consuming zero net energy in the process. GE says that their smart energy system, dubbed the Net Zero Home project, will center around a $250 central management hub that will allow all of a home's networked appliances and on-site power-producing equipment talk to each other, as well as to the smart grid outside the home. As an Asheville Custom Home Builder and certified green professional we have embraced new green technology, employing it in all of our new construction when possible, providing our clients with more sustainable, higher quality, more efficient homes. Visit Advantage Development Co. on the web at www.AdvDevCo.com or call us today at (828)-215-9064 for a free consultation, you will be glad you did.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Cork Flooring

2009-08-02T03:06:00.001-07:00

The very best material for avoiding damage from denting and dog claws is cork flooring. We have heard this time and again from dog owners. Where wood and bamboo are durable because they are hard, cork is durable because it is resilient, it yields under the pressure of the dogs claw and then returns to its original shape. And cork is naturally quiet, warm, hypoallergenic, fire resistant, a great alternative to conventional carpet, yet as long lasting as a wood floor. Nova Cork flooring products are even FSC-certified! Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Custom Home Builder in Asheville NC now in our second decade of building fine luxury homes. We love educating our clients on new sustainable, eco friendly green building materials that are durable and healthier for your new home. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Explains Manual J Calculation

2009-07-28T04:21:00.000-07:00

Year-round, comfort is the goal. In the summer, your air conditioning system not only cools your homes air (sensible cooling), it removes moisture (latent cooling). In the winter, your heating system must keep you comfortable without causing high utility bills. Make sure that your HVAC contractor uses the Manual J residential load calculation procedure. Insist on it! Manual J is the official standard for residential load calculation and is required by many building codes around the country. By accurately performing a Manual J calculation you can be assured that your HVAC system has been sized properly for optimal performance and maximum energy efficiency.

Your HVAC contractor will carefully measure your home and evaluate its levels of insulation. Windows, sizes and quantity will be noted, levels of infiltration will be estimated and internal loads including lighting and kitchen appliances will be taken into consideration. A computerized analysis will be completed that indicates just how much heating and/or cooling capacity your new system should provide. After the installation of your new system is completed, you will receive a copy of the computerized load calculation for your records. As an Asheville NC Custom Builder and certified green professional we only use qualified HVAC contractors that properly perform Manual J calculations on all new heating & cooling systems installed in our fine, luxury custom homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Toxic Carpets

2009-07-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

If you are considering wall-to-wall carpet for your home or project, stop, look, and read on. Take a minute to think about the pros and cons of your carpet choices before you buy that next roomful. Carpet is synonymous with comfort, it is soft, absorbs sound, and makes a house warmer, literally and figuratively. Unfortunately, it also contributes to poor indoor air quality (IAQ),off-gassing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), absorbing and retaining moisture that can lead to mold, and is a huge sinkhole for dirt and dust mites. Carpets containing high VOC materials and compounds can be extremely hazardous for your health by affecting the indoor air that you are breathing.

If your heart and feet are set on carpet, go with natural fibers, like wool, hemp, silk, linen, and sisal. My favorite is wool: The innate beauty and durability of pure wool provides a natural soil barrier, adds warmth and comfort, is inherently flame resistant, plus, it comes from a renewable resource. Look for natural fiber carpets free of toxic dyes, pesticides, herbicides, and flame retardants. Two of my favorites are Earth Weave and Natures Carpet, both 100% wool complemented by solid environmental practices. Ensure healthful carpet installation by using tack strips instead of adhesives, which can be loaded with VOCs and make the carpeting harder to remove/replace/reuse/recycle later on. Padding increases softness and the carpet's life, so, again, look for natural wool and rubber; there are many made from recycled products. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder and certified green professional that is always educating clients on potential health risks of different types of building materials so that more green products can be chosen. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Radon Mitigation

2009-07-22T03:47:00.000-07:00

Radon is a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that you can not see, smell or taste. Its presence in your home can pose a danger to your family's health. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in America and claims about 20,000 lives annually. Learn how you can protect your family Test Your Home for Radon, It is easy and inexpensive Fix your home if you have a radon level of 4 pCi/L or more. Radon levels can be high in mountainous areas and as such Advantage Development Co. installs a radon mitigation system in every home we build to assure best indoor quality for our clients.

Lung cancer kills thousands of Americans every year. The untimely deaths of Peter Jennings and Dana Reeve have raised public awareness about lung cancer, especially among people who have never smoked. Smoking, radon, and secondhand smoke are the leading causes of lung cancer. Although lung cancer can be treated, the survival rate is one of the lowest for those with cancer. From the time of diagnosis, between 11 and 15 percent of those afflicted will live beyond five years, depending upon demographic factors. In many cases lung cancer can be prevented if radon systems are in place. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Builder we are very concerned with a home owners health and always install radon mitigation systems to avoid radon leakage into the interior living space of our fine luxury homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Paint Health Risks

2009-07-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

With good reason, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates paint within its Top Five environmental hazards, and has produced research that shows VOC (volatile organic compound) levels indoors while paint is drying are 1000 times higher than outdoors. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the dangers faced by people who work with paint. It reports that painters have a 20% increased risk of a range of cancers and a 40% increased risk of lung cancer, in particular.

In general, it is recognized that children and older people are particularly vulnerable to solvent vapors. When added to headaches, other allergic reactions, skin problems, heart stressing and effects on the reproductive systems, conventional paint is something you should think hard about before inviting into your home. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom builder in Asheville NC that has recognized the health hazards of indoor paints for years now. We always recommend low or no VOC paints and finishes to our clients for indoor applications on their new homes. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us as a custom builder in Asheville since 1990.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Foam Insulation

2009-07-17T14:05:00.001-07:00

In recent columns, we have looked at cellulose insulation as well as fiberglass and other batt insulation materials. The other option for filling wall and ceiling cavities is foam insulation that is sprayed into the cavity. There are several such materials that are used for this application, all installed by professional insulation contractors. Closed Cell foam-in-place insulation is by far the best and also the most expensive type of home insulation. As an award winning Asheville NC Custom home Builder we educate our clients on all building materials relative to cost versus performance gains.

Polyurethane is by far the most common foam-in-place insulation material used for homes, but there are several quite different formulations. Closed-cell polyurethane has been around for decades, though the ingredients have changed considerably in the past 15 years as ozone-damaging blowing agents were replaced with safer chemicals. The polyurethane is sprayed into the wall or ceiling cavity as a liquid (much like spray paint), and as the components mix they instantly expand, foaming to create the insulation. The material fully cures in a few hours to form a quite hard, high-density (2 pound per cubic foot) material. In a wall cavity, enough material is typically used to expand to several inches thickness, but not so much that the foam bulges beyond the inner face of the framing. Closed-cell polyurethane insulates to between R-5.8 and R-6.8 per inch, a considerably higher insulating value than any other cavity fill insulation. Advantage Development Co. has been the builder of choice in Asheville NC since 1990, and is a multiple Asheville Parade of Homes Winner. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about our company and why we win awards year after year.

Asheville NC Custom Builder says Build Green to Save Green

2009-07-14T04:46:00.000-07:00

Green building is good for the environment. It is energy efficient, which reduces the need to burn fossil fuels and helps fight climate change, one of our countrys most pressing environmental issues. It also makes efficient use of water and other resources, minimizes pollution and waste, and reduces overall environmental impact. But, as building professionals and consumers are increasingly discovering, there are as many advantages to building green as there are techniques. As an award winning custom home builder since 1990 we have come to realize that green building is just plain smart building.

Green buildings cost less to operate because, among other things, they use less energy and water, and require less maintenance. They have better indoor air quality because they minimize chemicals, mold and other harmful substances. And they have excellent resale value-because green buildings are quality buildings and they're built to last. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC certified green professional home builder here to build that fine custom home while getting you any level of green certification ranging from NC Healthy Built, NAHB Green or LEED Certified. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Granite

2009-07-11T04:01:00.000-07:00

Granite is a natural stone that is among the most popular materials used for home decor. In fact, it is a very hard stone and as far as hardness quotient is concerned it ranks right after the diamond. Different continents including Africa, Asia, America and Europe produce granite in good quantity. Like diamond granite too, has an innate beauty that has achieved a perfect blend with its toughness. So, granite has a history that is old, strength that is extraordinary and beauty that is unsurpassable. As an Asheville NC Custom and Green Builder we love installing granite on both the exterior & interiors of fine custom homes that we build.

No wonder therefore, that granite has become one of the greatest choices for the home makers to decorate their houses. In fact, the brilliant colors and textures of granite are sure to add beauty to your home. When it comes to granite counter tops, the color ranges from white to red, green, black, blues and many other exotic shades. Since it is constructed naturally out of molten rocks, different minerals and other elements have resulted in the variations in color and texture. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom home builder that truly appreciates the beauty & durability of granite in the fine homes we build. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/about.html to learn more about us, and why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks Foundations

2009-07-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

A large foundation crack is a serious matter. Professional engineers who understand foundations need to be brought in. Once the foundation has stopped its differential movement, then the foundation repair can begin. Yes, as Engineers and Master Builders we understand that foundation problems in a home can be disastrous in many cases. We take great measures when building our custom homes to never have a call back related to foundation shifting. By installing our footings on virgin soil, adding 50% more steel and concrete, re-enforcing walls properly, not back filling before walls are braced, and providing proper soil drainage we have never had a foundation related issue with a home we have built.

Many foundation problems can be avoided with the addition of extra steel to the concrete footers and actual foundation. The building code requirements for structural steel are minimum requirements. At Advantage Development Co. we increase the size of steel from #4 rebar to #5 rebar and the number of pieces of steel in every foundation we install. As Award Winning Asheville NC Master Builders and Engineers we understand the important concepts of building a quality home that will last for generations. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/index.html to learn more about who we are and why we build better custom homes in Asheville NC.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Cultured Stone

2009-07-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Cultured stone is becoming more and more popular for both the interior and exterior of homes. Cultured stone is a man made stone manufactured primarily for decorative accents. It is made up of cement, natural aggregates, and iron oxide pigments. In order to give cultured stones a realistic shape they are often created by using a mold of a natural stone. Using cultured stone in your home has many advantages over real, natural stone. We have been using cultured stone for many years on our craftsman style mountain homes and many of our clients prefer it over natural.

One of the main benefits of cultured stones versus natural ones is that cultured stones are much more lightweight. This is an advantage because it places less weight on the foundation of your home. In addition, when using cultured stone you are not required to have a brick ledge on your foundation. This is mostly due to the fact that the back of a cultured stone is flat allowing for excellent surface contact. Cultured stone is also faster and less difficult to install than natural stone. It is also easy to find, and simple to replace. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder for over twenty years we have always been a big fan of Owings Corning Bucks County cultured stone. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks Tax Credits

2009-07-06T04:37:00.000-07:00

Consumers who install solar energy systems (including solar water heating and solar electric systems), small wind systems, geothermal heat pumps, and residential fuel cell and micro turbine systems can receive a 30% tax credit for systems placed in service before December 31, 2016; the previous tax credit cap no longer applies. North Carolina also offers a 35% state tax credit for solar home systems with very high caps on the limits allowed. The total tax credits are 65% for home solar now, not including rebates & monies paid back to the homeowner by NC Green Power. Solar Home Systems are now affordable, and very reliable. As an award winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we encourage new homeowners to take advantage of solar & the tax credits allowed.

A tax credit is generally more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction because a tax credit reduces tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only removes a percentage of the tax that is owed. Consumers can itemize purchases on their federal income tax form, which will lower the total amount of tax they owe the government. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder and Certified Green Professional that embraces solar technology as a viable alternative energy source for new homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about who we are and why we build better homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes the look of Driveway Pavers

2009-07-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

As more and more homeowners grow tired of looking at their ugly, stained or cracked concrete, dirt or asphalt driveway they are turning to beautiful, durable and maintenance free driveway pavers. A well-chosen and properly installed driveway can add to the aesthetic appeal of your home, create opportunities for landscaping focal points, and significantly increase the value of your property. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we use driveway pavers on many of our custom home projects. We really appreciate the old world look pavers give a drive and the style that is added to the overall homes look.

There are two types of driveway pavers: mortared and mortar less. Mortared pavers have mortar between the pavers and thus create a hardened non-flexible surface. This type of surface is prone to cracking and makes replacing a section or a paver more difficult. Mortar less pavers are the preferred method. Instead of mortar a special mixture of sand is used to make a very solid but flexible driveway surface. And if a paver ever breaks or cracks, replacing it is very easy. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning builder in Asheville NC now in our second generation of building fine custom homes. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about who we are & why we build better homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on GeoThermal

2009-07-03T03:51:00.000-07:00

Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) are a relatively new technology that can save homeowners money. These ground-source heat pumps use the natural heat storage capacity of the earth or ground water to provide energy efficient heating and cooling. GHPs should not be confused with air-source heat pumps that rely on heated air. Geothermal heat pumps use the relatively constant temperature of the ground or water several feet below the earth's surface as source of heating and cooling. Geothermal heat pumps are appropriate for retrofit or new homes, where both heating and cooling are desired. They can be used for virtually any size home or lot in any region of the U.S.

A geothermal heat pump system consists of indoor heat pump equipment, a ground loop, and a flow center to connect the indoor and outdoor equipment. The heat pump equipment works like a reversible refrigerator by removing heat from one location and depositing it in another location. The ground loop, which is invisible after installation, allows the exchange of heat between the earth and the heat pump. GHPs are also typically more efficient than electric, gas or oil-fired heating systems. They are more energy efficient than air-source heat pumps because they draw heat from, or release heat to, the earth, which has moderate temperatures year round, rather than to the air (which is generally colder in winter and warmer in summer than the earth, resulting in less effective heat transfer). Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that specializes in saving new homeowners energy. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Low Flow Toilets

2009-07-01T02:58:00.000-07:00

Dual flush toilets handle solid and liquid waste differently from standard American style toilets, giving the user a choice of flushes. It is an interactive toilet design that helps conserve water that has caught on quickly in countries where water is in short supply, like Australia, and in areas where water supply and treatment facilities are older or overtaxed. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that by the year 2013, an estimated 36 states will experience water shortages as a result of increased water usage and inefficient water management from aging regional infrastructures. Using less water to flush liquid waste makes sense, but in the United States there may be cultural biases that make accepting a more hands-on approach to personal waste harder to accept [source: Safe Plumbing].

Dual flush toilets may be another defining moment in the development of the American john: the introduction of environmental conservation to the process of elimination. Interest in low flow and dual flush toilets is on the rise in the United States, due in part to increased government regulation and the rising cost of water, and there are incentives for making changes in the way we use the commode. In the next months, we will see why change may be a good thing, learn more about the specifics of the dual flush and find out how government and business are coming together to help America flush responsibly. Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that is concerned with building our new homes in a more energy efficient manner to lessen our carbon foot print on the planet. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we build better custom homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Stucco

2009-06-30T03:27:00.000-07:00

Stucco is really just another word for Portland cement plaster, which is made by mixing Portland cement-based materials, water, sand, and certain aggregates. The plaster is then sprayed on or applied to the homes exterior in two or three coats, until it reaches a specified thickness. Stucco can be applied directly to a concrete or masonry substrate, or to a metal lath attached to construction framing. A water-resistant building paper typically separates the stucco from framing or sheathing. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we use a variety of exterior home finishes including stucco on some of our custom Arts & Crafts style mountain homes.

Textured stucco is achieved in two ways, either by altering aggregate sizes in the mix or by manipulating the texture during application. Hand-textured stucco is a blend of artistry and craft, so it is best to see examples of the applicators work before you hire an applicator. The color and texture of stuccos finish coat is achieved by adding color pigments to the mixture, using colored or tinted cement, or by using a colored finish or final coat. As with many exterior or siding products, stucco can get dirty. When dirt and grime collect on a stucco surface, a garden hose and household cleaning detergent can do the trick. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that has over twenty years of experience with applying stucco textures to the exteriors of our many custom homes built over the years. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about building custom homes and why we are the choice of many when choosing a custom builder in Asheville.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Concrete as an Eco Friendly Material

2009-06-28T03:23:00.000-07:00

Concrete is a friend of the environment in all stages of its life span, from raw material production to demolition, making it a natural choice for sustainable home construction. The predominant raw material for the cement in concrete is limestone, the most abundant mineral on earth. Concrete can also be made with fly ash, slag cement, and silica fume, all waste byproducts from power plants, steel mills, and other manufacturing facilities. Concrete builds durable, long-lasting structures that will not rust, rot, or burn. Life spans for concrete building products can be double or triple those of other common building materials. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we like using eco friendly concrete in all phases of our new construction homes.

Homes built with concrete walls, foundations, and floors are highly energy efficient because they take advantage of concretes inherent thermal mass or ability to absorb and retain heat. This means homeowners can significantly cut their heating and cooling bills and install smaller-capacity HVAC equipment. Concrete can be produced in the quantities needed for each project, reducing waste. After a concrete structure has served its original purpose, the concrete can be crushed and recycled into aggregate for use in new concrete pavements or as backfill or road base. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that understands the importance of concrete materials in all phases of our new construction to achieve both sustainability and long term durability. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are Asheville's premier design/build firm and have been since 1990.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Hot Water Heat Pumps

2009-06-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Heat pumps have traditionally been used for space conditioning, but are now also being used for electric water heating. They are usually three times more efficient than electric resistance water heaters--meaning that they can produce the same amount of hot water for one-third the amount of electricity. Stand-alone heat pump water heaters (HPWH), which are described here, are different from heating and cooling heat pump systems that have integrated water-heating capability. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we are always educating clients on new technologies available to save energy in their new home.

There are four basic types of stand-alone HPWH. The heat pump can be integrated with or separate from the hot water storage tank, and cool exhaust air can be exhausted to the room or to the outdoors (see Figures). Because HPWH take heat from the surrounding room air, they cool and dehumidify a space. This is a benefit during the cooling season and a drawback during the heating season. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that understands the importance of saving energy in that new custom home so we can lessen the earths carbon footprint and have a future for our kids & their kids. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we build better custom homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Energy Star

2009-06-24T15:33:00.000-07:00

To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20 to 30% more efficient than standard homes. Energy Star is a requisite for any green certified home built within the United States. There are many rebates, tax credits, and incentives from your utility if your home is an Energy Star Certified Home. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Builder we have made the commitment to build every new home to Energy Star standards at a bare minimum so that our clients have more efficient homes and receive the 5% monthly utility bill discount from Progress Energy.

ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of "tried-and-true" energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution. Some of the key components included in achieving Energy Star certification include upgraded insulation, better duct sealing, higher efficiency HVAC equipment, Energy Star Lighting, Energy Star Appliances, Windows, and tighter sealing of the homes envelope. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that understands the importance of building better, more energy efficient homes that have a lesser impact on our environment. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about custom home building.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on ICFs

2009-06-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

ECO-Block Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) represent the superior way to build. This is the better way to build, period. Energy savings generated by an ECO-Block building are up to 50% and HVAC tonnage requirements reduced by as much as 30%, and continue for the life of the building. You save on utility and maintenance costs. ECO-Block buildings stand strong against the wind. They can have up to a four-hour fire resistive rating. Many insurance companies give discounts to ICF building owners for disaster and fire insurance. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we like insulated concrete forms because the walls have superior strength and energy efficiency versus 2 x 4 walls with insulation.

This state-of-the-art method of construction is also the simplest. ECO-Block insulating concrete forms are EPS (expanded polystyrene) panels that easily snap together to create walls of virtually any thickness, from 4inch on up in 2inch increments. The space between the panels is filled with concrete that cures and hardens into a monolithic, reinforced core of incredible strength. Insulated concrete walls are the way to go if you want a super insulated energy efficient green certified home. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that uses many innovative technologies to build their energy efficient custom homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about why we build better custom homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Green Building

2009-06-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

Green building is an approach to construction that can be applied to public and commercial buildings as well as the houses we live in. It guides every step of design and construction, from choosing a building site to installing a heating system. Green building is alternately described as sustainable building, and ultimately this may be a more accurate way of looking at it. Green buildings are as varied as the people who live in them. There is no single template for a green house. But even though green houses may not look different from the outside, their designs are based on three broad principles: Energy Efficiency, Conservation of natural resources, and High Indoor Air Quality. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Green Builder we realize that Green Building is just plain Smart Building. The home owner gets a higher quality home that uses much less energy that a non green certified home. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we build better homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes using a Vapor Barrier

2009-06-21T03:27:00.000-07:00

A vapor barrier or vapor diffusion retarder is a material that reduces the rate at which water vapor can move through a material. The older term "vapor barrier" is still used even though it may inaccurately imply that the material stops all of the moisture transfer. Since everything allows some water vapor to diffuse through it to some degree, the term "vapor diffusion retarder" is more accurate. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we recognize the importance of a properly installed vapor barrier on every home we build.

When installing a vapor diffusion retarder, it should be continuous and as close to perfect as possible. This is especially important in very cold climates and in hot and humid climates. Be sure to completely seal any tears, openings, or punctures that may occur during construction. Cover all appropriate surfaces; otherwise, you risk moist air condensing within the cavity, which would lead to dampened insulation. The thermal resistance of wet insulation is dramatically decreased, and prolonged wet conditions will induce mold and wood rot. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that always goes to great pains to insure that vapor barriers are properly installed in their custom homes during construction. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about high end custom home builders.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Ridge Vents

2009-06-20T03:11:00.000-07:00

One of the most cost efficient methods for cooling your home is having a ridge vent placed on your roof. If you have ever sit in a physics class and really listened; you probably remember that heat rises. As heat rises into attic spaces; this causes roofing materials, rafters, and even insulation to weather away, become damaged and ultimately need replacing. Adequate ridge vent can add years to a home; not to mention it is very attractive and appealing to homes. Most new construction homes that are shingled with the raised architectural shingles look for a ridge vent that will combine need with overall visual appearance. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we always recommend ridge vents on our new asphalt shingled roof homes.

It is very important for homes to be well balanced with circulating air; when wind is pushed over the ridge vent, it draws air out of the attic; then replacement air is then drawn into the underlying vent on the underside of the ridge vent. This process creates a balanced ventilation system for your home. This will keep your home dry and free from moisture; as well, it will keep your insulation and your homes structural integrity intact. Unlike many other cost saving and energy efficient methods that homeowners use; this one is free. It is all Mother Nature. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that appreciates the law of physics and knows just how well ridge vents work to ventilate an attic space. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we build better homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Fiber Cement Siding

2009-06-19T03:03:00.000-07:00

For homeowners that want the look of wood but do not want the hassles and costs associated with it, fiber-cement siding is a great alternative. This product is available from several manufacturers such as John Hardie and in a variety of textures that are said to provide the appearance of wood. Fiber-cement siding is more durable than wood, it is termite-resistant, water-resistant, non-combustible, and warranted to last 50 years. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that loves building fine custom arts & crafts style homes we have been using fiber cement siding for decades due to its durability and high quality finished appearance.

Fiber-cement siding is composed of cement, sand, and cellulose fiber that has been autoclaved (cured with pressurized steam) to increase its strength and dimensional stability. The fiber is added as reinforcement to prevent cracking. The planks come in a variety of widths and have a great finished look whether installed by it self or combined with natural stone on a beautiful mountain home. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder making dreams a reality for home owners since 1990. We are experts at designing custom homes using fiber cement siding, natural cedar, and real stone for that true craftsman look so many people adore in the mountains of western North Carolina. Visit or call us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we make dreams come true in the Asheville area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Saving Water

2009-06-18T03:09:00.000-07:00

Showers account for 22% of individual water use in North America. Aerating mixes air into the water stream. This maintains steady pressure so the flow has an even, full shower spray. Because air is mixed in with the water, the water temperature can cool down a bit towards the floor of the shower. Aerating shower heads are the most popular type of low-flow shower head. By aerating water in homes we save huge amounts of water and energy used to convey water to the homes they serve. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder and a good steward of our natural resources we always recommend low flow fixtures in our new homes.

Inexpensive and simple to install, low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators can reduce your home water consumption as much as 50%, and reduce your energy cost of heating the water also by as much as 50%.This conservation of water and energy is not only good for the environment, but the savings in your utility bills will pay for the cost of the aerators within a few months. From then on, you enjoy continued savings. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that loves educating clients on measures available for saving our precious natural resources like water. We build fine custom homes and believe in saving the planet one home at a time. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we build higher quality homes and offer a total "Turn-Key" solution for custom home building.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Concrete Homes

2009-06-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

Insulated Concrete Wall Homes are one of the strongest and most energy-efficient houses possible. Even hurricane-force winds cannot blow one down. It is true that concrete is not a good insulator and feels cold, but with this method the concrete is totally encapsulated in rigid insulating foam. The foam provides the energy efficiency and the concrete provides the strength. The concrete inside the foam also adds thermal mass to the house. In addition to efficiency, very little outdoor noise penetrates the walls. As an award winning Asheville NC Custom Green Builder we are always looking for new and innovative ways to build more energy efficient homes.

People often think of efficiency as strictly insulation level, but air infiltration (leakage) into and out of a house is also a significant efficiency factor. With interlocking foam blocks or long continuous panels, there will be very little air leakage. Also, concrete will not settle over time as lumber homes sometimes do, so these houses remain airtight. Other than having thick walls, these homes are constructed like any other home. These foam/concrete houses look like any other home in the neighborhood. In fact, with the superior strength of concrete, you will actually have more design flexibility. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Builder that is constantly looking for new ways to build more energy efficient homes for our clients. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we build better homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Engineered Wood Products

2009-06-15T03:01:00.000-07:00

The decreasing supply of large diameter, old-growth trees resulted in the increased popularity of engineered wood products, those made from young, small diameter trees and scrap wood that is reassembled into I-joists, boards and beams. But did you know that the engineered wood that is well-recognized in residential construction as header and girder material and I-joist chords, can also be used for wall framing with similar effective results? Engineered wood is made from quick growing, abundant species such as aspen, fir, pine and poplar that are processed into wood veneers or strands, coated with adhesive, compressed into large billets, dried, then sawn into standard lumber dimensions. As Asheville NC Custom Home Builders and engineers we have been advocates of engineered wood products for decades now.

In walls, engineered wood can be used as a replacement for 2 x 4 and 2 x 6 dimensional lumber, installed with the same process, tools, and fasteners. Because engineered wood products are superior in strength, stability, and uniformity to standard lumber species of the U. S., headers and girders can be engineered for greater clear spans or to carry greater loads. This means that taller walls can be designed for greater environmental conditions (like high wind speed or seismic activity) at greater spacing (for windows and doors). This greater design flexibility, reduced waste (no culling), and the materials dimensional stability drive the value decision. Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Builder making dreams come true for clients for over twenty years now. Call us or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we build better high end custom homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains Health Risks associated with Carpet

2009-06-13T02:37:00.000-07:00

Carpet is synonymous with comfort; it is soft, absorbs sound, and makes a house warmer, literally and figuratively. Unfortunately, it also contributes to poor indoor air quality, off-gassing volatile organic compounds, absorbing and retaining moisture that can lead to mold, and is a huge sinkhole for dirt and dust mites. As an Asheville NC Certified Green Builder we understand the importance of using air quality friendly flooring materials in that new custom home. It is also important to leave your shoes at the door and not carry contaminants into the home that can get trapped in the carpet, emitting toxic vapors at an ongoing rate causing additional health hazards.

If your heart and feet are set on carpet, go with natural fibers, like wool, hemp, silk, linen, and sisal. My favorite is wool: The innate beauty and durability of pure wool provides a natural soil barrier, adds warmth and comfort, is inherently flame resistant, plus, it comes from a renewable resource. Look for natural fiber carpets free of toxic dyes, pesticides, herbicides, and flame retardants. Two of my favorites are Earth Weave and Natures Carpet, both 100% wool complemented by solid environmental practices. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning builder in Asheville NC that always educates home buyers relative to health hazards associated with flooring and building materials enabling clients to make wiser choices, thus improving indoor air quality. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder in the Asheville NC area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder educates Clients on Windows

2009-06-11T02:36:00.000-07:00

Windows can be one of your home's most attractive features. Windows provide views, day lighting, ventilation, and solar heating in the winter. Unfortunately, they can also account for 10% to 25% of your heating bill. During the summer, your air conditioner must work harder to cool hot air from sunny windows. Install ENERGY STAR windows and use curtains and shade to give your air conditioner and energy bill a break. If you live in the Sun Belt, look into low-e windows, which can cut the cooling load by 10% to 15%. As an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder we know the importance of choosing the correct energy saving windows for your custom application. There are considerations to be made depending upon home site position and whether the home is a passive solar type design. ENERGY STAR windows are a given requirement if the home is to be green certified.

If your home has single-pane windows, as many U.S. homes do, consider replacing them with new double-pane windows with high-performance glass (e.g., low-e). In colder climates, select windows that are gas filled with low emissivity (low-e) coatings on the glass to reduce heat loss. In warmer climates, select windows with selective coatings to reduce heat gain. If you are building a new home, you can offset some of the cost of installing more efficient windows because they allow you to buy smaller, less expensive heating and cooling equipment. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning Asheville NC Builder with over twenty years of experience in high end custom residential construction. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about why we build better homes and have since 1990.

Asheville NC Custom Home Builder talks Foundation Water Proofing

2009-06-10T02:10:00.000-07:00

If you decide to have your new foundation waterproofed, and you should, the company doing the work will most likely insist that they install or monitor the installation of your drain tile system. Very few builders that I am aware of take the time or interest to adequately install drain tile. Water naturally flows toward your foundation. This is especially true if you live on a hillside or even a slight slope (which, by the way, most of us do!) Water moves horizontally through soil. Water occupies the void spaces between the particles of soil. The deeper you go into a soil, especially if it is clay, the less space there is for water. As an Asheville NC Custom Builder we know the importance of good foundation water proofing and footing drain systems. Foundation problems are very hard to resolve so we take great pains to assure we never have one.

To make matters worse, the soil that is use for back fill around your house is rarely compacted. When it is dumped around your house it has huge amounts of air in it. This dirt was fluffed up and pumped full of air when it was dug from the ground. It can takes years and years for this ground to naturally compact. In some cases, where overhangs protect the dirt, it may never truly compact. It can always have more air in it than the soil that is only 5 or 6 feet away. This can spell BIG trouble for your foundation if it is not waterproofed AND if you have a bad drain tile installation. We have a leader in the industry install all of our homes foundation waterproofing systems. They provide the home owner a written ten year warranty against foundation problems resulting from water damage. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that takes steps to assure every home we build is of the highest quality and will be issue free for the life of the home. Call us or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we build a better home and win awards.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about the Importance of a Good Foundation

2009-06-08T03:19:00.000-07:00

Footings are poured concrete pathways that help to spread the weight of the home from the foundation walls to the surrounding soil. Footings are wider than the foundation walls they support, and form the perimeter of the home. Sometimes, additional footings are added inside the perimeter to support load-bearing interior walls. A firm foundation, including properly installed footings of adequate size to support the structure and prevent excessive settlement, is essential to the satisfactory performance of buildings including raised floor systems. As an Asheville NC Custom Builder and engineers, we understand the importance of a good foundation when constructing that high quality dream home. We use beefier footings on virgin earth constructed with over 50% more steel reinforcing than required by local and international building codes.

Continuous (stem wall) foundations are frequently constructed of reinforced masonry or poured concrete, supported by a continuous, reinforced-concrete spread footing. Stem wall foundations may include interior spot piers for support of the raised floor system. Moisture control of the crawlspace created by the stem wall foundation is an important issue and exactly why we install an insulated, sealed crawl system in all of our fine customs built on a crawl area. Advantage Development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder in our second decade of high end custom residential construction. We pride ourselves on providing old world quality combined with cutting edge building science technologies. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we have been winning awards and building fine custom homes since 1990.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Recycled Paper Countertops

2009-06-06T02:09:00.000-07:00

Want a green material for your kitchen counter tops that is tough enough to stand up to skateboards, boats and even airplanes? Then you will want to check out recycled paper counter tops! I know, paper does not sound like a very practical material for a counter top, after all it is quite fragile and disintegrates when it gets wet, but these counter tops are made from pulp that comes from trees harvested by managed forests along with some recycled paper. Of course, it does not resemble paper at all once it is processed and the result is a beautiful and durable green counter top. As an Asheville NC Custom Builder we like the new recycled paper counter tops being offered by a company named paper stock, they are truly amazing counter tops, both beautiful, and durable.

These recycled counter tops also have many advantages such as being heat resistant, scratch resistant and stain resistant. This type of counter top is a solid color throughout the entire thickness so any scratches that do occur will not be very noticeable. With a heat resistance of up to 350 degrees you will not have to worry about burns on your new counter. But perhaps, the best thing about these recycled paper counter tops is that they are very sanitary and, in fact, the material has been certified by the National Sanitation Foundation for use in cutting boards. It has an impervious surface and resists the growth of bacteria. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that likes to stay current on new trends and products being offered for custom home building. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the choice of many discriminating home owners in the Asheville NC area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks Insulation Basics

2009-06-04T05:21:00.000-07:00

There is no component of a home more important in minimizing energy costs than insulation. Insulation is the material used in walls, ceilings, roofs, and foundations that slows the flow of heat. Most insulation works by trapping air in tiny pockets, and it is the air that actually does the insulating. If you could keep air perfectly still and did not have solid materials that heat also conducts through (like fibers or cell walls), the air would insulate to about R-5.5 per inch. (R-value is a measure of resistance to heat flow; the higher the number, the lower the heat flow.) As an Asheville NC Custom Builder we know and appreciate the science behind good insulating materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, and foam.

With fiberglass insulation, the glass fibers create air pockets that impede air movement; higher-density fiberglass insulates better, because the air pockets are smaller and air molecules have more trouble moving around. Cellulose insulation works the same way, though because the air pockets are somewhat smaller, it insulates a little better. Polystyrene relies on a cellular structure, rather than fibers, to trap the air. Advantage Development Co. is a master award winning Asheville NC Custom Builder and is here to better educate clients on the best suited insulation for their new home application. We are a big fan of using polystyrene on the foundation walls, spray foam in the rim joist, blown cellulose in the walls, and spray foam in the attic at the roof line to totally insulate the house envelope. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ashevillencbuilder.html to learn more about us an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes to Incorporate Creative Window Design

2009-06-03T02:26:00.000-07:00

Imaginative window design can help you enjoy your house more and make it greener at the same time. Building with an efficient use of interior space is a tenet of green building, but it may leave you feeling claustrophobic. One way to avoid this is to use the outdoors to create the sense that the room you are in is part of a larger space. Windows with low sills bring sight lines closer to the house, increasing visual connection to the outdoors. High windows such as transoms bring in enlightening views of the sky, but extra units cost more. We sometimes have custom patterns made into our windows to create the effect of transoms without breaking the budget. We are an Asheville NC Builder that likes creative window design and layout in our fine custom homes.

When privacy is not an issue, consider dropping window sills lower than normal. Doing so pulls sight lines closer to the house, increasing visual connection to the outdoors. As long as the edge of the glass is 18 inches above the finished floor and 30 inches away from a door, it should not need to be tempered, which saves money. Sometimes it is worth it to pay extra for windows that sit even lower. This is particularly effective on sloping sites, but even on a flat site, it changes the feel of a space dramatically. As an Award Winning Asheville NC Builder we like working with clients on creative ways to enhance the overall feel of that new custom home without breaking the bank. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about how we design and build award winning homes in Asheville NC.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Negative Effects of Thermal Bridging

2009-06-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

Everything is relative, especially when it comes to thermal bridging. Thermal bridging occurs wherever assembly components with low R-values relative to surrounding materials span from the inside to the outside of a building assembly. Thermal bridging takes place in wood-framed assemblies because, although wood is a pretty good insulator at about R-1 per inch, it is at least three times more thermally conductive than any cavity insulation, which start at about R-3.5 per inch. With steel framing at about R.04 per inch, it is thermal bridging on a whole different scale. Steel framing typically reduces the in-cavity R-value by as much as 50%, while wood framing reduces in-cavity R-value by a bit less than 10%. As an Asheville NC Custom Builder for over twenty years we understand the negative effects associated with thermal bridging.

Wrapping a building envelope with exterior rigid insulation eliminates thermal bridging. Rigid insulation as exterior sheathing is a great idea for wood-framed assemblies, imperative for steel. But as in all things hydrothermal, you get a double benefit when you reduce or eliminate thermal bridging, you save energy and reduce the potential for condensation, mold, and rot. The main reason we put insulation in framing cavities is because there is space, it is the easiest and least expensive place to put the stuff. But it is not the best place, in large part because of thermal bridging. In what Joe Lstiburek of Building Science Corporation calls the perfect wall (or roof), all of the insulation is on the exterior. This means that the building frame experiences nearly the same conditions as the occupants, a real recipe for happy, comfortable, and long-lived people and buildings. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning Asheville NC Custom Builder that strives to have less thermal bridging in very fine home we build. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville NC Custom Builder says Save Water to Save Energy

2009-05-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

Whenever we reduce water use, we also save energy. In fact, several of the most cost-effective energy saving strategies, projects with the quickest payback, are water conservation improvements that reduce hot water use. If you are on municipal water and sewer, water consumption is also responsible for significant energy use. It takes energy to pump water from reservoirs or wells, and to filter and purify that water. It takes even more energy to treat waste water in sewage treatment plants. In fact, for many municipalities, waste water treatment is the single largest energy expense. As an Asheville NC Builder we believe in educating clients on energy saving techniques available in new home construction.

While we pay a little bit for every gallon of water we use, we pay a lot more when it is hot water we are using. In a typical American home, water heating accounts for about 12% of total energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than lighting, half-again as much as refrigeration, and about the same as air conditioning. That is a significant amount of energy. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to reduce our hot water use. A few of these are; 1) Install low-flow shower heads, 2) Install low-flow faucet aerators, 3) Repair leaky faucets or shower heads promptly, 4) Insulate hot water pipes, 5) Replace your clothes washer with a horizontal-axis, 6) Energy Star model, and 7) Replace your dishwasher with a top efficiency, Energy Star model. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning Asheville NC Builder that has been building fine custom homes for over twenty years. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about energy conservation building ideas.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes installing Recycled Glass Counter Tops

2009-05-28T06:09:00.000-07:00

Recycled glass offers a great alternative to the non-renewable virgin granite that has been so popular for the past decade. Not only can you choose your colors or color combinations, but you can have a tough, smooth, easy-to-care-for surface that doesn't need the fussing and care demanded by stone counter tops. Some companies even offer a Certificate of Transformation that tells you exactly what kinds of glass were used to make your unique counter top. Many of the glass sources have fascinating stories behind them so your counter top comes replete with history! As an award winning Asheville NC Custom Builder we love installing recycled, green products in our fine custom homes.

Now you can be on the cutting edge of fashion, have useful, low-maintenance surfaces, help the planet recycle waste, and have the most beautiful counter tops in your neighborhood. One result of the greening of America is recycling glass like it has never been recycled before. Imagine taking traffic light glass, broken colored bottle glass, window glass -- all kinds of glass that was never recycled before -- and fusing it into glamorous counter tops for the kitchen! Advantage Development Co. has been an Asheville NC Custom Builder since 1990 and has won the parade of homes every time that we entered. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we build great homes.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Insulated Sheathing for Better Energy Efficiency Homes

2009-05-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

One of the most important energy-saving materials in a home is the insulation. Without insulation, many of the other energy-efficient components, like energy efficient heating and cooling equipment and windows, won't perform as intended. Building codes cite the minimal amount of insulation needed by law. In general, more insulation, or insulation with a higher R-value, will help to make the home more efficient and comfortable year round. The best practice for increasing the R-value in exterior walls is to protect them with insulated foam sheathing.

Advantages of insulated foam sheathing is that, when properly installed, provides moisture control. It protects against condensation on the inside wall by keeping the interior of the wall warmer. Insulated foam sheathing has these additional advantages: 1) Continuous layer of insulation reduces thermal bridging through wood studs, saving energy and improving comfort. Thermal bridging occurs when there is a break in the continuity of the insulation layer, which results in heat loss, 2) It is easier to cut and install than heavier-weight sheathing products, and 3) It usually costs less than plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). As an award winning Asheville NC Custom Builder we like the obvious advantages of insulated sheathing and the added energy efficiency of homes using it. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ashevillencbuilder.html to learn more about energy efficient homes and insulated sheathing.

Ask an Asheville NC Custom Builder about Radon Mitigation in New Home Construction

2009-05-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas emitted from uranium, a naturally occurring mineral in rocks and soil. Normally, radon rises up through the soil and dissipates in the air outside. Radon becomes a concern, however, when it seeps through openings such as cracks, loose fitting pipes, sump pits, dirt floors, slab joints or block walls and accumulates in the home. Air pressure inside the home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around the house’s foundation. Because of this difference, the house acts like a vacuum, drawing radon in through foundation cracks and other openings. Radon levels vary greatly in the mountain areas of Western North Carolina, and if the level is over 4pCi/L in the living areas of a home, radon mitigation systems need to be installed. As an award winning Asheville NC Custom Builder we understand the health risks associated with high radon levels in homes.

The most commonly used radon mitigation technique, and generally the most effective method, is called sub-slab depressurization. This system uses pipes that extend from a permeable layer below the basement floor (such as gravel or drain tiles) upward through the structure, venting out the roof. This system collects radon gas before it enters the house and funnels it directly up through pipes and out of the home. If natural ventilation through the pipe system is not adequate to lower radon levels, a fan can be added in the attic to help draw gases through the system to the outdoors. Similar systems also can be installed in homes with crawlspaces. Advantage Development Co. is a custom green home builder in Asheville NC and installs a radon tube in every home we build. We know the importance of the home owners’ health and care about the air quality in our new custom homes. Being an Asheville NC Custom Builder for over twenty years we have seen many areas high in radon levels and understand the importance of radon mitigation. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/AshevilleNCBuilder.html to learn why we care more about our home owners health and take every precaution to protect it.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains How Radiant Floor Heat Works

2009-05-22T02:37:00.000-07:00

Unlike most traditional home heating systems, radiant floor heat does not rely on ducted forced air to spread heat through a room. Radiant heat transfer occurs when elements within the floor itself are heated, circulating rising heat from the floor surface around the rest of the room in a process called convection. The floor can be heated in several ways: via air, electricity, or water. Home radiant floor heat systems are typically of either electric or hydronic design. The first of these can be installed as a separate layer, but electric systems most often use electric cables set in concrete because of its thick, heat-conductive texture that can store and radiate heat for hours after the initial heating process.

The hydronic or liquid systems utilize a boiler that heats water, which is then pumped through tubes in the floor or under the finished floor. The hydronic system is by far the most energy efficient and will typically cost somewhere between $10-$15 per square foot of installed area depending on sub floor material as well as finished floor materials used. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green home builder in Asheville NC that has been building fine custom homes and winning awards for two decades now. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville NC Custom Builder uses Optimal Value Engineering

2009-05-20T01:53:00.000-07:00

Advanced house framing, sometimes called Optimum Value Engineering (OVE), refers to a variety of techniques designed to reduce the amount of lumber used and waste generated in the construction of a wood-framed house. These techniques also improve a home's energy efficiency. Advanced framing techniques create a structurally sound home with lower material and labor costs than a conventionally framed house. Additional construction cost savings result from reduced waste disposal, which also helps the environment.

Advanced framing actually replaces lumber with insulation material and maximizes the wall that's insulated, which improves the whole-wall thermal resistance or R-value. Some examples of advanced framing would be 2 x 6 walls on 24 inch centers, finger jointed stud use, t corners, single top plates and reduced headers on interior non load bearing walls. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC that has been employing Optimal Value Engineering in homes for years as a means to reduce energy usage. Visit our website to learn more about us http://www.advdevco.com/ and why we win awards.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Spray Foam Insulation

2009-05-18T02:55:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of insulation options but some are much greener than others. If you are concerned with your home using renewable, energy efficient materials, then using a foam insulation spray could be your solution. In addition to other benefits you get from using a foam insulator in your home or business, the product is also environmentally friendly. It is made up mainly of renewable resources and the means of application is Earth friendly. It is free of ozone depleting components, and the application solution is water based. Not only is spray foam insulation green, it is versatile. It functions well as a barrier to airborne sound and comes with one of the highest fire resistances available in similar products. Pest and rodents will not do any damage because the insulator has no nutritional value to them. It is water resistant, and flexible enough to allow some movement of the building structure. Finally, it produces no toxic vapors after it is applied. You can even rent or buy the equipment and install it yourself.

With concerns about the environment on everyones mind, it helps that you can find products to help in your conservation efforts. You can get greener cars, recycle your trash and electronics, and buy energy efficient appliances. Why not make your home or business part of the solution? Renewable resources benefit all of us. The best thing about spray foam insulation is that you can put it anywhere. It doesn't matter if you're starting fresh on your building, or replacing worn out or useless materials. The spray foam can be applied to existing structures with the same effectiveness it has on new structures. If going green is a priority for your house or office, applying spray foam insulation is another way to help your environment. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning green custom builder in Asheville NC that uses Eco friendly spray foam insulation for its high performance characteristics and its green heritage. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about who we are.

Asheville NC Custom Builder says Cellulose Insulation is as Green as It Gets

2009-05-16T02:48:00.000-07:00

Insulation is our number-one line of defense against high heating costs, and my favorite type of insulation is cellulose. Along with its effectiveness at slowing heat flow, cellulose insulation is a green product, made mostly out of an abundant waste product: old newspaper. Most cellulose insulation is manufactured by first chopping recycled newspaper into small pieces, about an inch square. In an older process, this chopped newspaper is further shredded using a hammer mill so that the smallest pieces are about a quarter-inch across. In most newer cellulose insulation plants, the chopped newspaper is fibered, a process that separates the individual fibers, producing a lower-density material, 1.3 to 1.5 pounds per cubic foot. The lower the density, the more insulating value you get for a pound of insulation.

Cellulose insulation provides R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch, depending on how it is installed. With the wall insulation options described, the value will be at the higher end of that range. Most fiberglass does not insulate as well, because air can circulate through it more easily. This is also the reason that cellulose is actually better than fiberglass at stopping fires, as surprising as that sounds. From an environmental standpoint, it is a big bonus that cellulose insulation is made mostly from recycled newspaper, one of the largest components of our solid waste stream. Cellulose insulation makes sense on many levels: it saves fuel, saves money, and provides an end use for recycling programs. Advantage Development Co. Is a award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and is a big believer in Blown Cellulose Insulation for higher performance, more energy efficient homes. Visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder tells why Refrigerators are Energy Hogs and How to Save

2009-05-15T02:41:00.000-07:00

In a typical home, the refrigerator accounts for about 8% of the total annual energy expense, according to 2005 data from the U.S. Department of Energy. While this energy consumption for food storage is significant, it’s far less than it was a few decades ago. In the mid-1970s, an average new refrigerator used about 1,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, making it the single most expensive energy load in many homes. The maximum electricity consumption for a typical 19-cubic-foot top-freezer model works out to about 500 kWh/year. With side-by-side refrigerator-freezers that maximum consumption is a lot higher. Energy Star refrigerators use at least 20% less energy than the federal limit. Both the federal energy performance standards and Energy Star requirements have been tightened periodically since those programs were first launched.

So, if you have an old fridge, chances are pretty good that it’s an energy hog and you could save a lot of energy by replacing it. To find out how much electricity your existing fridge is using, buy or borrow an electricity monitor, plug your fridge into it for a week or two, then calculate the annual usage. When building a new home, buyers should closely look at the Energy Star ratings on all appliances and products going into that new home for maximum lifetime energy savings. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine homes for two decades. John Green, the company co-owner understands energy conservation as he is a degreed engineer and worked extensively with the U.S. Department of Energy on many cutting edge projects and has many case studies published. Come visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ and learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on NO VOC Paints

2009-05-14T02:35:00.000-07:00

Improving indoor air quality has been one of the newer issues in the green movement. To help deal with this issue there are several low or no VOC paints that have been introduced to help people remodel their homes without damaging their air quality. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are what put chemicals from paint into the air, and consequently gives paints their odors. As VOCs are reduced, the odor levels drop, and fewer and fewer chemicals are put into the air.

The down fall for low and no VOC paints has always been tinting. Tinting the paint adds 150 grams of VOCs into the paint. This is true for all paints. That means that even if you buy a boutique, all natural paint, as soon as you tint it to the color you desire, you just defeated all the work you put into locating and purchasing the paint. When building that new dream home always choose a knowledgeable contractor that understands what makes paints and finishes low or no VOC and where to obtain such materials. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine custom homes for two decades. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we truly are the better high end custom builder in Asheville NC and surrounding areas.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Sealed Crawl Spaces

2009-05-12T08:41:00.000-07:00

With research proving its benefits, more contractors are enclosing the crawl space. Closed crawl spaces are more energy efficient; resolve moisture, mold and rot problems; and stop insect infestations. To get the most "bang for the buck," insulate the walls, not the ceiling. If given the choice between the walls and ceiling, the Department of Energy says to insulate the walls, not the ceiling. Heat transfer always moves from hot to cold or from inside the home to outside and down into the crawl space. When insulating, it is best to use an aluminum faced material to reflect heat back into the home. Eliminate the moisture. It is important to install a vapor barrier to keep moisture out. Moisture is what causes many of the problems with crawl spaces such as rot, mold and mildew.

The rim joists around the perimeter of the home should be insulated with breathable, un-faced, formaldehyde-free insulation. Make sure the insulation material is fire resistant. Check your local fire codes regarding exposed insulation. Once your crawl space is properly insulated and closed, you may be eligible for an insulation tax credit through the Energy Star program. Homeowners can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost of materials up to $1500 the year they install the insulation. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine custom homes for two decades. Call us or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better custom builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains Energy Recovery Ventilators

2009-05-11T02:35:00.000-07:00

We are building a super efficient home, as little air leakage as possible. And thats a good thing. However, since the house is sealed tight, you are breathing the same air, over and over again. Similar to being on an airplane, except with out the air purifier. Now this gets even worse when you add the scents and smells of cooking to your already stale air. So the ERV attaches to your HVAC system and when running brings fresh air in from outdoors while removing the stale indoor air. Bringing fresh air in is a great idea, right? Kind of a no brainer. The problem is when the outside temp is really hot or cold. You would be bringing in that extreme temperature air and killing your energy bill.

Wallah. This is what the energy recovery portion does. It has a fancy way of bringing in fresh air without bringing in the extreme climates outside, so that you are not compromising your energy efficient home. So the big question is do I get the ERV installed during construction or take my chances on breathing stale air forever? Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and understands how to properly design and engineer that new energy efficient green home to give you years of perfect service, health, and indoor air quality benefits. We are Certified Green Professionals by the NAHB here to help you make important choices on that new custom home. Call us or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we win awards, year after year.

Asheville NC Custom Builder gets Clients a 5% Utility Reduction for Life with Energy Star Certification on Their New Homes

2009-05-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Progress Energy Carolinas offers an incentive to its residential customers for improving the energy efficiency of their homes. To qualify the home must meet the standards of the US Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star-labeled home program and be verified by a registered third party. Eligible houses will receive a 5% discount on their monthly electric bills from Progress Energy. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and only builds Energy Star, NC Healthy Built and LEED Certified quality homes. We love getting new home owners the 5% utility reduction on their monthly electric bills. Green home building is more than just bamboo floors, its building energy efficient smart homes that save energy. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we can save you more on that new home.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares about NC Green Power Program

2009-05-08T03:18:00.000-07:00

NC Green Power, a statewide green power program designed to encourage the use of renewable energy in North Carolina, offers production payments for grid-tied electricity generated by solar, wind, small hydro (10 megawatts or less) and biomass resources. Payment arrangements for electricity generated by most renewable energy systems are available by submitting proposals for consideration in an open-bid process. However, owners of small solar energy systems and small wind energy systems (10 kilowatts or less) may currently apply to receive program incentives at any time. Owners of small solar energy systems or wind-energy systems are encouraged to review and fill out an online application, available on the NC Green Power web site. Note that customer-generators who choose to net meter are not permitted to sell electricity under the NC Green Power Program.

Generators are required to enter into power-purchase agreements with their North Carolina electric utility and with NC Green Power. However, because premiums paid to NC Green Power are funded exclusively by voluntary contributions from North Carolina electric customers, NC Green Power does not provide guaranteed contracts to generators. Production incentives are based on the amount expected to make the installation of renewable-energy systems approach economic feasibility. The incentives, which include payments from utility power-purchase agreements, are made on a per-kWh basis and vary by technology. Owners of small solar electric systems enrolled in NC Green Power receive $0.15/kWh from the program, plus approximately $0.04/kWh from their utility under the power-purchase agreement, for a total production payment of about $0.19/kWh. Owners of small wind-energy systems receive $0.06/kWh from the program, plus approximately $0.04/kWh from their utility, for a total production payment of about $0.10/kWh.*

NC Green Power is an independent, nonprofit organization created by state-government officials, electric utilities, nonprofit organizations, consumers, renewable-energy advocates and other stakeholders. It began operation in October 2003 as the first statewide green-power program in the United States. North Carolina's three investor-owned utilities -- Dominion North Carolina Power, Duke Energy and Progress Energy -- and many of the state's municipal utilities and electric cooperatives are participating in the NC Green Power Program. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine custom homes for two decades. Call us today or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains Why They Buy FSC Stamped Wood

2009-05-07T02:48:00.000-07:00

FSC is an independent, non-governmental, not for profit organization established to promote the responsible management of the worlds forests. Products carrying the FSC label are independently certified to assure consumers that they come from forests that are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations.

By buying FSC products you provide incentives for responsible forestry. You can enjoy your purchases knowing it has not contributed to the destruction of the worlds forest or even come from companies involved in human rights abuses. Over time, your choice with many other responsible purchasing decisions will lead to even more forests being managed responsibly the FSC way. Almost everything made from wood and other forest products is available with the FSC label. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning green custom home builder in Asheville NC that believes in supporting forest stewardship and always purchases FSC lumber and materials when possible. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at our website and check out our green building page http://www.advdevco.com/ you will be glad you did.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares about How Important Manual J Calculations Are

2009-05-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

When sizing a heating and cooling system for a home, rule of thumb measurements can yield an improperly sized system. Yes, you've probably heard it all before, but a poorly sized HVAC system can lead to an uncomfortable living environment and higher bills for the homeowner, to name a few. The popular method of calculating heating and cooling loads is to use ACCA, Manual J-compliant load calculation software. The old method of buying a Manual J book and sizing by hand is rarely used these days due to all the great software available.

The most common problem in the HVAC industry is the tendency to oversize equipment. Contractors and customers alike are conditioned to believe bigger is better. Unfortunately, bigger leads to higher installation cost, higher operating cost and a more humid house. Yes, an over sized system will not run long enough to remove moisture from the house, and in turn, the customer will feel clammy due to a higher humidity level in the house. The customer in search of greater comfort will now lower the thermostat to feel more comfortable and will keep lowering it until the unit runs enough to remove moisture. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC that will only use qualified HVAC Contractors that are trained in performing manual j calculations accurately to assure optimal energy efficiency and comfort in ever new home they build. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Water Filters

2009-05-05T03:52:00.000-07:00

Ah, that wonderful refreshing taste of a tall cold glass of water, cooling, soothing and pure. But is it pure? What about all those invisible microbes and bacteria? What about all those pesticides and herbicides you do not see? It is enough to spoil that thirst quenching moment. So how do you get pure drinking water? Most people get a water filtration system. However, no one unit can remove all the impurities in our drinking water. And there are many types to choose from. If you have a better understanding of how water filters work, then you will be able to get the right one to fit your lifestyle.

Most filters today are charcoal, or activated charcoal. There are also other types of filters like Ion Exchange Units, Reverse Osmosis, and Distillation Units. Charcoal, which is mostly carbon, is the residue of partial burning or destructive distillation of organic material. When special heating or chemical processing is added to charcoal, it becomes much more absorptive, and is then referred to as activated charcoal. So a charcoal filter works on the principle of absorption. Large volumes of gases, including most poisonous ones, stick to the charcoal, which is quite porous. Charcoal is what they use in gas masks because it has such a large porous surface area, it absorbs a lot of impurities. Charcoal filters are used in ice maker filters, under counter filters, counter top filters, whole house filters, and more. You get the message, charcoal really takes out the garbage.

Since there are so many choices in models and designs in water filters, there are a few things you will need to do before making your choice: Have your water tested by the local utility and get a report of the contaminants in your water, figure out how much water you drink, that will determine what type of filter to purchase and install, be prepared to stock additional filter cartridges to be replaced on an ongoing basis. By doing your homework you will pick the proper system for your needs and improve your quality of life. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green home builder in Asheville NC building fine custom homes for two decades. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder in Asheville and the surrounding areas.

Asheville NC Custom Builder hates putting HVAC Equipment & Duct Work in Attics

2009-05-04T02:35:00.000-07:00

Where is the hottest place in your house on an 85 degree summer day? Where is the coldest place in your house on a frigid January night? In both cases, it is the attic. So, if you were deciding where to locate a forced air heating and cooling system, what is just about the worst place you could put it? It is obvious: Do not put your HVAC system in an unconditioned attic.

What is a better location? Put the ducts between the floors or in dropped soffits inside conditioned areas of the house. That way the conditioned air always travels through ducts at room temperature. Some better builders will condition the attic by placing insulation near the roof deck rather than at the ceiling. This brings attic temperatures much closer to those inside the house, but it does add an additional energy load to the home. It is a step in the right direction, which is getting HVAC systems located inside the living space of the home. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and understands the importance of having all HVAC duct work within the conditioned space of the home for optimal energy savings. Call us today at 828-215-9064 for a free consultation or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to see why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares about Cork Flooring

2009-05-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Cork as we know it is the product of the cork-oak tree. The bark is peeled off of the tree with the use of hand-held tools in 10 year intervals to preserve the health of each cork oak tree. The bark is then ground and flattened into sheets. Its first use is for wine corks, but the remainder is used for a number of green building materials applications, most notably for flooring. There is little or no wastage and the trees remain unharmed by this strictly controlled harvesting process. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and believes in using eco friendly building materials and products when possible to lessen the impact of new construction on our planet. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn just why more people choose us for that custom home.

Asheville NC Custom Builder can Supply all of your Smart Home Automation Needs

2009-05-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

When you're not home, nagging little doubts can start to crowd your mind. Did I turn the coffee maker off? Did I set the security alarm? Are the kids doing their homework or watching television? With a smart home, you could quiet all of these worries with a quick trip online. When you're home, the house takes care of you by playing your favorite song whenever you walk in or instantaneously dimming the lights for a movie. Is it magic? No, it's home automation. Smart homes connect all the devices and appliances in your home so they can communicate with each other and with you.

Anything in your home that uses electricity can be put on the home network and at your command. Whether you give that command by voice, remote control or computer, the home reacts. Most applications relate to lighting, home security, home theater and entertainment and thermostat regulation. Smart Home technology can offer the home owner both convenience and energy savings on that new custom built dream home. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green home builder in Asheville NC with vast experience in home automation, home theatres, and smart home technologies. Whether you need solid network solutions for your home, structured wiring, or a full blown recording studio, we handle it all in house utilizing our staff degreed electrical design engineer. Visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder in Asheville and the surrounding WNC areas.

Asheville NC Custom Builder saves Energy with CFLs

2009-04-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

CFLs produce light differently than incandescent bulbs. In an incandescent, electric current runs through a wire filament and heats the filament until it starts to glow. In a CFL, an electric current is driven through a tube containing argon and a small amount of mercury vapor. This generates invisible ultraviolet light that excites a fluorescent coating (called phosphor) on the inside of the tube, which then emits visible light. CFLs need a little more energy when they are first turned on, but once the electricity starts moving, use about 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs. A CFLs ballast helps "kick start" the CFL and then regulates the current once the electricity starts flowing.

Older CFLs used large and heavy magnetic ballasts that caused a buzzing noise in some bulbs. Most CFLs today and all ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs use electronic ballasts, which do not buzz or hum. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green home builder and Energy Star partner in Asheville NC that understands how important energy conservation is in this day and age of global warming. Let us assist you in properly designing that new dream home to maximize efficiency and reduce total home operating costs. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder in and around Asheville NC.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Outdoor Living Spaces

2009-04-29T01:57:00.000-07:00

A long used approach for enlarging the overall feel of a house is to make rooms look larger by visually extending them into the lawn or garden. Using the same wall material inside as for a wall that continues on the terrace and using the same material for the inside ceiling as on the extended terrace eaves, and using glass walls all help to do this. In addition your living room, dining room or even bedrooms can flow right outdoors on to "floating" decks, bricked terraces or lattice-roofed loggias. With the aid of vines, fences, shrubbery, shade trees and flowers you can make a terrace a delightful place for entertaining, sun-bathing and relaxing. Another dimension is added with a barbecue, for with your own fireplace or barbecue any terrace, lawn or garden spot can offer the enchantments of dining under sun and stars.

Barbecues that are located at a distance from the house should be designed to include protected compartments for tinder, fuel storage, and possibly even barbecuing utensils. The more self-sufficient an outdoor area is the more pleasure it can provide. A barbecue that has working space, built-in ovens and a wide grill, makes outdoor dining enjoyable even for the cook. While planning your terrace, you should consider installing electric outlets for lighting, music, an electric barbecue spit, etc. You may want to use vines to create a lattice roof (for example, grape vines leaf out late in the summer when shade is wanted and drop their leaves early as cooler weather sets in). Rapid growing vines like grape, hyacinth or the gourd vine work best. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine homes for two decades. Call us at 828-215-9064 for a free consultation or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn just why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about ICFs

2009-04-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

Concrete forms have taken a new shape-and purpose. Insulating concrete forms (ICFs) are rigid plastic foam forms that hold concrete in place during curing and remain in place afterwards to serve as thermal insulation for concrete walls. The foam sections are lightweight and result in energy-efficient, durable construction. ICFs consist of insulating foam, commonly expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS). The three basic form types are hollow foam blocks, foam planks held together with plastic ties, and 4 x 8 panels with integral foam or plastic ties. ICFs can be used to form various structural configurations, such as a standard wall, post and beam, or grid. They provide backing for interior and exterior finishes.

Insulation values of ICF walls vary depending on the material and its thickness. Typical insulation values range from R-17 to R-26, compared to between R-13 and R-19 for most wood-framed walls. The strength of ICF structures relative to lumber depends on configuration, thickness, and reinforcement. However, ICF walls are designed as reinforced concrete, having high wind and seismic resistance. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC building fine custom homes for two decades. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains ENERGY STAR Home Rating System

2009-04-26T02:59:00.000-07:00

To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20 to 30% more efficient than standard homes. And with home buyers increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated. And the easy way to make sure a new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue ENERGY STAR mark, the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency.

ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of 'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution: effective insulation, high efficiency windows, tight construction and duct work, efficient heating and cooling equipment, efficient lighting, appliances, water heaters, and getting a third party verification to make sure the whole house operates optimally as an energy saving system. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom green builder that gets the Energy Star rating on ever home they build in Asheville NC and the surrounding WNC areas. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better custom home builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Benefits of Finger Joint Studs

2009-04-24T03:35:00.000-07:00

Finger-jointed studs use short pieces of 2x dimensional lumber material glued together to form standard length studs. While they may be manufactured in any species, products are most commonly available in: Douglas Fir, Hem-Fir, Spruce-Pine-Fir, and western woods. The use of finger-jointed studs and lumber is widely practiced and accepted. Finger-jointed studs in short lengths (pre-cut to 12') are stocked at many building supply and lumber retail stores. Long lengths usually have to be ordered. Finger-jointed casing is available at home improvement centers. The cost of finger joint studs is the same as regular dimensional lumber.

Specifying finger-jointed lumber reduces the use of solid sawn lumber. Moreover, solid sawn studs may have weak spots and may twist and warp. The builder usually ends up having to replace a lot of solid lumber studs, thus increasing construction costs. Finger-jointed studs are resource-efficient engineered materials, which are as strong as, but straighter and more stable than solid-sawn studs. This radically reduces the need to cull bad studs, normally required with solid-sawn studs. This saves material, time and money. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC for over two decades now and knows the benefits of using engineered wood in their fine custom homes. Call us at 828-215-9064 for a free consultation or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Hempcrete, a great Green Building Product

2009-04-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

How to build green is a topic on everyone persons mind these days, and hempcrete fulfills the requirements of being made from natural materials, being non-toxic, and providing energy efficiency. Formed into foot-thick walls on a wooden frame, the material eliminates the need for both insulation and sheet rock. Such walls are breathable and have a pleasant, natural appearance, as well as the ability to alleviate noise pollution from the outer world.

Hempcrete, which can be used in the same way as concrete, is made by mixing hemp, lime, sand, plaster and cement. It is mixed on site and sprayed onto the frame. Aside from doing away with the need for insulation, the material is waterproof, fireproof, and resistant to weather, rodents, and rot. It is said to be seven times stronger than concrete, as well as being more elastic, thus less prone to crack, and half the weight of concrete. Rather then emitting carbon dioxide, the construction of a hempcrete building can remove carbon dioxide from the air and trap it. Advantage Development Co. Is a pioneer in the field of custom green building in Asheville NC. Call us at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder in Asheville and the surrounding areas. Starting in May 2009, we will host a free monthly green building seminar on the fourth Sunday of every month at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3070 Sweeten Creek Rd., 2-4PM so call us and RSVP today.

Celebrate Earth Day with Asheville NC Custom Green Builder, Join The Green Revolution

2009-04-22T02:10:00.000-07:00

Earth Day 2009, April 22, will mark the beginning of The Green Generation Campaign which will also be the focus of the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day in 2010. With negotiations for a new global climate agreement coming up in December, Earth Day 2009 must be a day of action and civic participation, to defend The Green GenerationTMs core principles: A carbon-free future based on renewable energy that will end our common dependency on fossil fuels, including coal, an individuals commitment to responsible, sustainable consumption, creation of a new green economy that lifts people out of poverty by creating millions of quality green jobs and transforms the global education system into a green one.

Earth Day is a time to celebrate gains we have made and create new visions to accelerate environmental progress. Earth Day is a time to unite around new actions. Earth Day and every day is a time to act to protect our planet. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC committed to saving this earth, one home at a time. We are hosting free monthly green building seminars from May 2009 through 2010 to support the Green Generation Campaign and show that we are an integral part of the green revolution. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about the "green" revolution and why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes Standing Seam Metal Roofs

2009-04-21T02:20:00.000-07:00

A metal roof is a premium roof system that adds value to your most important investment-your home. Initially, a metal roof will likely cost more than an asphalt roof, comparable to some other systems like tile or shake and less than slate. While these premium roof systems look good initially, they breakdown over time and you wind up having to install two or more while your metal roof will keep on providing the protection for you and your home. A metal roof will indeed save you money over time; in fact, most metal roofs come with a true 30 to 50 year warranty.

Then, add that all in with what you'll save in roof maintenance costs. To make sure an asphalt roof lasts as long as possible, extra roof maintenance is essential. But a metal roof is just about maintenance-free. All you have to do is occasionally hose it down from the ground. Metal roofs not only save you money, they'll save you time and worry, too. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom builder/certified green professional in Asheville NC and has two decades of experience with standing seam metal roofs. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to see why we are the better builder in Asheville.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains R-Value for Insulation

2009-04-20T02:47:00.000-07:00

An insulation materials r-value refers to its ability to stop or slow down the transfer of heat. It is based on a laboratory measurement, called an r-factor. The r-factor, multiplied by the thickness of the material in inches, gives you the r-value of the insulation. Laboratory measurements, however, do not always accurately reflect conditions in the real world. Most insulation materials lose their effectiveness when crammed into a tight space between walls. In addition, temperature can also make a big difference, some insulations operate better in colder temperatures, while others work best in warmer environments. In addition, if a material is stretched too thin or installed improperly, the r-value could diminish.

Good insulation can make your home more energy efficient, or it can leak the valuable energy you spend to regulate the temperature of your home. Which insulation you choose is an important decision, but it is even more important to make sure you hire a reputable contractor to apply the insulation. Many homes have incorrectly-installed insulation that causes serious energy issues, and the owners can go years without realizing the problem. Your insulation can go a long way toward making your home greener and more energy efficient. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and understands the importance of sealing the house envelope & using the best insulation for the home design parameters. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Home Energy Efficiency

2009-04-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

Energy-efficient homes are in demand. That is because they save your customers money, provide greater comfort and help protect the environment by using less energy. Home Advantage homes are ENERGY STAR certified making them at least 15 percent more energy efficient than standard homes. They also enjoy a 5 percent Progress Energy discount for the life of the house. Home resale prices are typically much higher for ENERGY STAR Rated homes, and homes sell quicker with ENERGY STAR certifications.

Energy efficiency pays off for your customers and can be your competitive advantage in todays challenging market. We illustrate to potential buyers how the slightly higher cost of efficiency upgrades is more than offset by energy savings. For example: If you add $1,500 for energy-efficiency upgrades to the cost of a $200,000 home: The mortgage goes up by just $9/month, assuming a fixed 30 year, 6 percent mortgage. The monthly utility bills could come down by at least $31/month. That's a savings of $22 per month in the first month of ownership. The homeowner could ultimately save at least $264 a year. Building your new home to ENERGY STAR standards just makes plain good sense and Advantage Development Co. is an ENERGY STAR Rated Builder with two decades of experience in Asheville NC. We are also a NAHB Certified Green Professional ready to meet all of your green building needs. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ and learn why we are the better builder when it comes to residential and green home design & building.

Asheville NC Custom Builder describes importance of Passive Solar Home Design

2009-04-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

To get the most from your home, think sun. That's right, the sun can heat and cool your home and reduce its energy use. More importantly, the energy from the sun can make your home comfortable year round. There are two types of solar design systems, passive and active. Homes constructed as passive solar design use the natural movement of heat and air to maintain comfortable temperatures, operating with little or no mechanical assistance. It is called passive solar because the design of the home maximizes the benefits it receives from the sun with standard construction features. Passive solar takes advantage of local breezes and landscape features such as shade trees and windbreaks, and uses a simple system to collect and store solar energy with no switches or controls.

On the other hand, active solar systems use mechanical devices such as pumps and fans to move heat from collectors to storage or from storage to use. Photovoltaic panels that collect solar energy, turning it into electricity, are also considered an active solar system. Although, building a passively designed solar home takes careful planning, the task is relatively simple, if you use the five basic solar design principles: Orientation, Overhangs and Shading, Insulation, Windows, and Thermal Mass. Building to take advantage of solar energy need not cost any more than building a comparably sized non-solar conventional home. A home that is properly oriented, tightly constructed, well insulated, and has operable windows for air circulation is both comfortable for the occupants and easy on the wallet. You can call it passive design or just smart construction. Advantage Development Co. is a NAHB Certified Green Professional and understands that building green to saving energy & renewable resources should begin with proper home design utilizing passive solar home design techniques. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us and why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Shares on Solar Hot Water Systems

2009-04-16T02:54:00.000-07:00

Solar water heaters, also called solar domestic hot water systems, can be a cost-effective way to generate hot water for your home. They can be used in any climate, and the fuel they use, sunshine, is free. Solar water heating systems include storage tanks and solar collectors. There are two types of solar water heating systems: active, which have circulating pumps and controls, and passive, which don't. Most solar water heaters require a well-insulated storage tank. Solar storage tanks have an additional outlet and inlet connected to and from the collector. In two-tank systems, the solar water heater preheats water before it enters the conventional water heater.

In one-tank systems, the back-up heater is combined with the solar storage in one tank.
Solar water heating systems almost always require a backup system for cloudy days and times of increased demand. Conventional storage water heaters usually provide backup and may already be part of the solar system package. A backup system may also be part of the solar collector, such as rooftop tanks with thermosyphon systems. Since an integral, collector storage system already stores hot water in addition to collecting solar heat; it may be packaged with a demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heater for backup. For more information on solar hot water systems call Advantage Development Co., an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC. Call us at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains PV Systems

2009-04-14T03:11:00.000-07:00

What do we mean by photovoltaics? First used in about 1890, the word has two parts: photo, derived from the Greek word for light, and volt, relating to electricity pioneer Alessandro Volta. So, photovoltaics could literally be translated as light-electricity. And that's what photovoltaic (PV) materials and devices do, they convert light energy into electrical energy (Photoelectric Effect), as French physicist Edmond Becquerel discovered as early as 1839. Commonly known as solar cells, individual PV cells are electricity-producing devices made of semiconductor materials. PV cells come in many sizes and shapes, from smaller than a postage stamp to several inches across. They are often connected together to form PV modules that may be up to several feet long and a few feet wide. Modules, in turn, can be combined and connected to form PV arrays of different sizes and power output.

The size of an array depends on several factors, such as the amount of sunlight available in a particular location and the needs of the consumer. The modules of the array make up the major part of a PV system, which can also include electrical connections, mounting hardware, power-conditioning equipment, and batteries that store solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining. Did you know that PV systems are already an important part of our lives? Simple PV systems provide power for many small consumer items, such as calculators and wristwatches. More complicated systems provide power for communications satellites, water pumps, and the lights, appliances, and machines in some people's homes and workplaces. Many road and traffic signs along highways are now powered by PV. In many cases, PV power is the least expensive form of electricity for performing these tasks. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom green builder in Asheville NC and understands Solar PV technology, costs, and tax credits available. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn just why we are the better builder in Asheville.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains Radiant Heat & How It Works

2009-04-12T03:04:00.000-07:00

In a home which is heated by radiant heat, your body circulation will improve because your feet are warm. That isn't the case with a forced air system. The heat is near the ceiling, around your head. Chairs and walls keep warm without cold spots or drafts in a radiant heated home -- objects in a forced air home are only as warm as the air around them. Radiant Heat keeps your furniture, drapes and painted walls extremely clean and keeps the floors dry. When the home is heated by blowing air; dust, dirt, grime, molds and other materials are blown from the ducts soiling the objects in the room. Place furniture anywhere. There are no grills or baseboards with a radiant heat system. Hang drapery right to the floor. Install wood, tile, carpet, or any other floor coverings without fear of cold feet. Forced air can't come close to the flexibility of a radiant heating system.

Radiant heat is not absorbed by the air, so it is ideal for buildings which have high air exchange rates. Radiant heat offers considerable energy savings over warm air systems, especially under otherwise difficult conditions. Radiant heat is transmitted by infrared waves and is directional. Radiant panel heating ensures that cold spots are avoided. Zone control of the radiant system permits flexible management, allowing selected areas to be heated to different temperatures as required. Radiant heating minimizes roof heat losses. By keeping the heat at floor level and around the objects to be heated, the temperature at the ceiling level becomes cooler and substantially reduces the heat loss. Radiant heat warms up cold bodies directly without heating the whole building. Consequently, radiant heating responds to the heating needs more quickly than warm air. The less frequent warm up periods save fuel and allow the heating system to match flexible, modern working arrangements. Radiant heating does not circulate air, therefore airborne particles are reduced. Radiant heat is not for everyone, but it does offer some home owners benefits that forced air does not. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom home green builder in Asheville NC with over two decades of experience. Call us at 828.215.9064 for a free consultation or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains how Geo Thermal Heat Pumps Work

2009-04-10T03:20:00.000-07:00

Geo thermal Heat Pumps, here is how they work. All energy comes from the sun. Mr. Sunshine has provided a lot of BTUs for a lot of years and Mother Earth has absorbed and stored that energy. A closed-loop geothermal system simply removes those BTUs from Mother Earth in the winter and gives them back in the summer. At depths of five feet or more, the earth temperature remains close to 57 degrees, as evidenced by a caves temperature. This temperature varies only slightly across the United States. There are two basic ways to install a geothermal unit. If digging a trench is difficult or if space is limited, geothermal contractors drill holes into the ground vertically to install small-diameter polyethylene pipe. If digging a horizontal trench is feasible, the pipe is installed in a horizontal trench.

A very small pump then circulates water from the earth to the geothermal unit and back to the ground in the closed loop pipe. Actually, geothermal is not the best name for this unit. A better name is ground-coupled heat pump or water-to-air heat pump. As you learned in my last newsletter, a heat pump does not create heat; it just moves heat from one location to another using a compressor. Example: A window air conditioner blows cool air inside and hot air outside. If you turn the air conditioner around, it will blow hot air inside and cool air outside. As it circulates 57-degree water in the winter, the geothermal unit, using the compressor to remove heat from the water, provides 105-degree air into the house. As the water goes back to the ground loop, it immediately starts absorbing BTUs from the earth.

In the summer, a reversing valve simply reverses the process and the compressor pumps BTUs into the ground loop. The water returns to the earth and immediately starts cooling off again. It is all about heat transfer. Here is another example, a blacksmith heats a horseshoe to red hot. To cool it, he does not wave the horseshoe into the air. Instead, he simply dips it in water. It cools off a lot faster and takes a lot less energy. Geothermal gives good hot air in the winter and really cold air in the summer and uses less energy than any other central heating and cooling system. So do not be a tightwad. Buy the best there is, you, your family, and your house deserve it. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning custom home builder in Asheville NC, building fine homes for two decades. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder likes ENERGY STAR Bulbs

2009-04-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

If every American home replaced just one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars. ENERGY STAR qualified bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer, save about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulbs lifetime, produce about 75 percent less heat, so they are safer to operate and can cut energy costs associated with home cooling, and are available in different sizes and shapes to fit in almost any fixture, for indoors and outdoors. Advantage Development Co. Is an award winning custom builder in Asheville NC, and always educates clients on the benefits of ENERGY STAR Appliances & Lighting. Call us today at 828.215.9064 for a free consultation or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn more about us & why we are better.

Asheville NC Custom Builder shares on Low VOC Paints for Healthier Indoor Air

2009-04-08T01:28:00.000-07:00

Indoor air is three times more polluted than outdoor air, and according to the EPA, is considered one of the top 5 hazards to human health. Paints and finishes are among the leading causes. Paints and finishes release low level toxic emissions into the air for years after application. The source of these toxins is a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which, until recently, were essential to the performance of the paint. New environmental regulations, and consumer demand, have led to the development of low-VOC and zero-VOC paints and finishes. Most paint manufacturers now produce one or more non-VOC variety of paint.

These new paints are durable, cost-effective and less harmful to human and environmental health.Benefits-Health, Reduced toxins benefit everyone, including those with allergies and chemical sensitivities. Environment, Reduces landfill, groundwater and ozone depleting contaminants. Effective, Low-VOC products perform well in terms of coverage, scrubability and hideability (covering flaws on previous coats). Water-Based, Easy cleanup with soap and warm water. Little or No Hazardous Fumes. Low odor during application; no odor once cured. No off-gassing, Painted areas can be occupied sooner, with no odor complaints. Not Deemed Hazardous Waste, Cleanup and disposal greatly simplified. Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Custom Green Builder in Asheville NC that believes in using Healthier Building products in all of their new home construction. Call us today at 828.215.9064 for a free consultation or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to see why we are the better builder in WNC.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about "The Stack Effect" in Homes

2009-04-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

Stack effect in buildings

Since buildings are not totally sealed (at the very minimum, there is always a ground level entrance), the stack effect will cause air infiltration. During the heating season, the warmer indoor air rises up through the building and escapes at the top either through open windows, ventilation openings, or leakage. The rising warm air reduces the pressure in the base of the building, forcing cold air to infiltrate through either open doors, windows, or other openings and leakage. Advantage Development Co. says it is critical that the entire building envelope is properly sealed to minimize the stack effect in homes. During the cooling season, the stack effect is reversed, but is typically weaker due to lower temperature differences.

In a modern high-rise building with a well-sealed envelope, the stack effect can create significant pressure differences that must be given design consideration and may need to be addressed with mechanical ventilation. Stairwells, shafts, elevators, and the like, tend to contribute to the stack effect, whereas interior partitions, floors, and fire separations can mitigate it. Especially in case of fire, the stack effect needs to be controlled to prevent the spread of smoke. Totally ventilated natural fireplaces cause a huge stack effect in residential homes, sucking conditioned inside air to the outside world, thus wasting tons of energy. Energy efficient, forced ventilated, gas log fireplaces are the way to go says Advantage Development Co., an Award Winning Asheville NC Custom Green Builder with two decades of residential construction experience. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to see why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Expalins Passive Solar Home Design

2009-04-06T03:43:00.000-07:00

Passive Solar Home Design

Your home's windows, walls, and floors can be designed to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. This is called passive solar design or climatic design. Unlike active solar heating systems, passive solar design doesn't involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices, such as pumps, fans, or electrical controls to move the solar heat. Passive solar homes range from those heated almost entirely by the sun to those with south-facing windows that provide some fraction of the heating load. The difference between a passive solar home and a conventional home is design. The key is designing a passive solar home to best take advantage of your local climate.

The following five elements constitute a complete passive solar home design. Each performs a separate function, but all five must work together for the design to be successful.

Aperture (Collector)
The large glass (window) area through which sunlight enters the building. Typically, the aperture(s) should face within 30 degrees of true south and should not be shaded by other buildings or trees from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day during the heating season.

Absorber
The hard, darkened surface of the storage element. This surface, which could be that of a masonry wall, floor, or partition (phase change material), or that of a water container, sits in the direct path of sunlight. Sunlight hits the surface and is absorbed as heat.

Thermal mass
The materials that retain or store the heat produced by sunlight. The difference between the absorber and thermal mass, although they often form the same wall or floor, is that the absorber is an exposed surface whereas thermal mass is the material below or behind that surface.

Distribution
The method by which solar heat circulates from the collection and storage points to different areas of the house. A strictly passive design will use the three natural heat transfer modes conduction, convection, and radiation, exclusively. In some applications, however, fans, ducts, and blowers may help with the distribution of heat through the house.

Control
Roof overhangs can be used to shade the aperture area during summer months. Other elements that control under- and/or overheating include electronic sensing devices, such as a differential thermostat that signals a fan to turn on; operable vents and dampers that allow or restrict heat flow; low-emissivity blinds; and awnings.

Advantage Development Co. is an Award Winning Green Home Custom Builder in Asheville NC building dreams since 1990. Call us today at 828.215.9064 for a free consultation or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ and learn why we build better homes in Asheville and the surrounding WNC area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Talks about Poplar Bark Shingles for Home Siding & Accents

2009-04-05T04:05:00.000-07:00

How are Bark House Shingles Made?

Our vendors start in the forest, alongside crews cutting poplar logs for the furniture industry and other uses. As soon as a tree falls, our small teams of craftsmen use coordination and strength, along with a collection of special antique tools, to loosen whole cylinders of bark from the trunk. The cylinders of bark are flattened and cut by hand into standard shingle length. After damaged or cracked sections are removed, the shingles are carefully stacked, and then placed under pressure to prevent curling. The stacks are kiln dried to the proper moisture content, sterilized and then stored in our climate-controlled warehouse until they are ready for use.

When properly installed, bark siding can last over 75 years without significant deterioration. For wear-testing purposes, Highland Craftsmen® monitors homes that were built with Poplar Bark Siding in the 1930s. In some areas, the patina of the bark is weathered, but still functional. There is no need for sealants or preservatives, bark siding resists all kinds of wear. However, using a wood preservative in areas of intense sunshine or exceptional moisture can help retard premature bleaching. Bark Shingles are a very green resource, and are used on many net zero homes as stated by Advantage Development Co.; an Asheville NC based Custom Green Home Builder. Call us at 828.215.9064 or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn why we should be your next builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder says BioBased Spray Foam Saves Energy while Saving The Earth

2009-04-04T03:22:00.000-07:00

BioBased Insulation® uses soy-based technology to replace a portion of the petroleum in its products. With this proprietary technology, BioBased Insulation® uses less petroleum than other spray foam insulations, reduces our country's dependence on foreign oil and utilizes soybean oil, a renewable resource grown by more than 600,000 American famers. In addition, because you'll reduce your energy usage each month, you'll be using less electricity and/or natural gas which is another positive benefit for the environment. BioBased Insulation® can help save building and home owners up to 50% on their heating and cooling costs when used in conjunction with other responsible building components. BioBased Insulation® more than pays for itself by providing you savings in each and every month’s heating and cooling bill for the life of your home or office. As an example, using BioBased Insulation® may increase your monthly mortgage by $15, but decrease your monthly utility bills by $65, providing a net savings of $50 month in and month out.

Have you ever noticed that one of the rooms in your home or office is warmer or cooler than the rest? This is due to unconditioned air infiltrating your home. According to the Department of Energy, this air infiltration accounts for up to 40% of the energy loss in a home or structure. By expanding multiple times its original size, BioBased Insulation® fills every crack and crevice creating an airtight seal of protection around your home or office. This airtight seal will help you keep all of your room temperatures at consistent and desirable levels. Another benefit is a quieter atmosphere. Traffic on a busy street or other airborne sounds can be greatly reduced. BioBased Insulation® not only gives you peace of mind, but peace and quiet, too. Advantage development Co. is an Asheville NC Custom Home Builder that believes in the benefits of BioBased spray foam insulation. Call us at 828.215.9064 or visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ to learn just why we are the better builder in Asheville and the surrounding area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Eco friendly Pervious Paving Material

2009-04-03T02:19:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of discussion about pervious paving and its contribution to the environment. Standard paving materials collect pollutants like oil, chemicals, and rubber tire particles from vehicles, pesticides, and dirt, only to have rain wash it off into our waterways, degrading our fresh water supply. Natural landscapes allow rain to percolate down through the soil, taking various pollutants with it, filtering and cleaning them as they flow down, typically arriving clean and clear by the time they reach the water table. We do need hard surfaces to walk, bike, and drive on, so what is the solution? Pervious concrete & pavers can be a great solution to traditional concrete products for drive way installations.

Pervious paving to the rescue. Available in many forms, pervious paving provides us with a surface both structurally sound and porous to water. Pervious concrete is similar to the standard product, but it's made with smaller aggregate and no sand. The result is roughly the texture of a Rice Krispy treat, with open pockets that allow water to flow through the surface to the ground below. Usually placed over about 12 inches of gravel and a geotextile base, pervious concrete can absorb all but the most severe rain events, eliminating almost all water runoff wherever it is installed. Other pervious products include expanded plastic mesh filled with grass and porous paver stones installed over a gravel base. Advantage Development Co. is a custom green home builder that uses pervious drive way pavers on many custom contract homes and clients absolutely love them. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to understand why we are the better builder in Asheville and surrounding WNC.

Asheville NC Custom Builder says Typar Housewrap is The Best!

2009-04-02T03:15:00.000-07:00

Typar House Wrap delivers four key advantages you will not find with other house wraps:

Superior water holdout, and blocks water from entering the wall cavity. Exceptional moisture vapor transmission (MVT), it breathes so moisture can escape the wall cavity. Superior tear strength, proven to withstand heavy winds and is almost five times stronger than the leading competitive wrap. Optimal surfactant and UV resistance, reduces the damaging effects that oils and tannins from cedar siding, cement siding, stucco, brick and soaps from power washing can have on the systems ability to block bulk moisture penetration; stands up to the beating sun on the jobsite for up to 6 months without degradation.

Think of Typar House Wrap as an extra layer of protection to secure the building envelope. With Typar on the outside, homes feel more comfortable on the inside. Typar eliminates drafts in the wall, which helps reduce energy costs. And the Typar material itself will not support the growth of mold or disintegrate over time, for added confidence and reduced worries. Typar House Wrap offers superior protection that you can count on. Advantage Development Co. in Asheville NC uses Typar on a consistent basis, and likes the added benefits Typar offers over other house wrap systems. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ to see why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder talks about Water Conservation and Green Building

2009-04-01T03:46:00.000-07:00

In 1992, congress reduced the maximum water consumption level of toilets from 3.5 gallons per flush to 1.6, and opponents were hopping mad. Plumbing contractors and consumers railed that the new toilets were ineffective and wasted water due to multiple flushes. The federal government warns that population growth and persistent drought will force at least 36 states into water shortages by 2013. Water conservation is now a national priority, which is why the EPA launched the voluntary Water Sense program to make it easy for consumers to identify and purchase water-efficient products. High-efficiency toilets were recently added to the program.

A high-efficiency toilet (HET) flushes with 20 percent less water than a standard unit. Such toilets may meet the criteria in one of two ways: A single-flush toilet must use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush, or a dual-flush unit must have a full flush using no more than 1.6 gallons and a reduced flush that uses no more than 1.1. With toilet flushing consuming about 30 percent of all domestic water use, manufacturers say they are committed to the water conservation movement. The question that looms, however, is whether or not that movement will make voluntary standards become law. With the eco-movement gaining steam, it very well could, so be prepared to install low flow heads, toilets, and gray water delivery systems. Advantage Development Co. is an award winning green builder in Asheville NC that understands what water conservation is all about. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ for all of your green building needs.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Talks about Green Flooring Products

2009-03-31T04:08:00.001-07:00

No flooring product has zero impact on our planet, but some green materials are better than others. I have listed a few of the eco friendlier options you might use in your home with both the pros and the considerations that need to be pondered. Bamboo is one eco friendly option. Bamboo is a fast growing grass that can be selectively harvested annually. It is extremely durable and harder than red oak and maple, has 50% less contraction and expansion than wood and is a renewable resource. Cork is another eco friendly renewable resource material made out of the bark of the cork oak tree. Only the bark is used so the tree does not have to be cut down. Cork is great because it often contains recycled content, is easy to clean if properly sealed and gives great foot support. Rubber is another new eco friendly flooring material available these days. Virgin rubber is derived from rubber trees, a renewable resource; recycled rubber reduces the environmental burden of discarded tires.

Linoleum uses the same ingredients today as when it was invented in 1863, linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, tree resins, ground limestone and pigments, all pressed onto a jute backing. The ingredients are renewable items and often are recycled content, which is good for the planet. Stone is another option to consider for the kitchen. It is a natural resource and a very durable material. Stone, however, is a finite resource, can result in using significant embodied energy if the stone is mined or fabricated overseas and, if the stone requires sealing, the sealers can produce potentially harmful VOC emissions. Tile is another eco friendly durable material if you use tiles that contain recycled content. Tiles are durable, easy to clean and can use recycled materials like broken window panes and recycled granite dust. They do use though a significant amount of energy to fire and transport so try to make sure to look for local sources and make sure they use recycled content. Advantage Development Co. is a Custom Home Builder in Asheville NC that believes in using eco friendly building materials. Call us today at 828-215-9064 or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ and learn why we are the local builder of choice.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Builds Green and Lives Green

2009-03-29T16:16:00.000-07:00

Green buildings reduce the impact on the environment, with innovative design techniques that improve the quality and performance of the buildings. More and more people are increasingly inclined to adopt green values to their old and new homes and are also insisting on the governments incorporating them in public places. One of the primary reasons for this growing awareness is energy saving and thereby reduced energy bills. It also makes safer homes for children and more productive places for employees. For environmentalists, it is reducing global warming or the greenhouse effect on a war footing. Global warming is already making its presence felt by unseasonable rains, the increase in summer temperatures and a decrease in winter temperatures.

In the U.S.A, more than half of the energy is consumed by buildings and constructions. Buildings emit more than one-third of Carbon dioxide, consume one-fourth of the worlds wood harvest and 17% of the worlds freshwater resources. In North America more than one-third of the landfills are occupied by building debris. This type of environment crushing pollution can be mitigated by a large extent with building techniques that provide better bargains and costs.

Home energy costs rank next to mortgage bills. Energy savings are assured throughout the life of a green building. Power companies give energy credits for green buildings and tax benefits are also available. In a recent survey in the U.S, it has been found out that home market value increases by 20 dollars for every dollar decrease in a power utility bill. Advantage Development Co. in Asheville NC is a Certified Green Builder and believes in Living Green. Call us at 828-215-9064 or visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains LEED Green Building Certification

2009-03-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

When you have built a home or other building using environmentally safe Green Building materials and products, you may be eligible for a LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). This group was created by the United States Green Building Council and the aim is to make all Green Building projects of the highest quality and ensure that all the necessary standards are being met to make it environmentally friendly. The LEED certification that you will receive if your building has a good enough rating comes in the form of a plaque stating that your building is a safe and healthy place to live or work in and that it is profitable and safe to the environment. Green Building is not only about preserving the environment and saving water as well as other resources, but it actually promotes a healthier lifestyle because you and your family will not be breathing in dangerous formaldehyde or other toxic compounds anymore.

The LEED certification is based on 4 levels from (certified), which is the lowest level to (platinum) status which is the highest level. It is easy to register for LEED online and if you think your building has everything that the LEED certification team of experts is looking for then you can benefit financially as well. The main aspects that LEED will look for in a Green Building is its sustainability, if it had low operating costs and a high asset value, if the amount of waste to the landfill was reduced by recycling or reusing certain parts, if it conserves water and energy (perhaps by having solar panels fitted), and whether it reduces harmful toxins and gas emissions. Advantage Development Co. is a custom home builder in Asheville NC and has a LEED Certified Rater that can have your new home LEED Certified. LEED Certification is the U.S. Green Building Council National standard and is the highest level green building rating available. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ or call 828-215-9064 to set-up a free consultation.

Asheville NC Custom Builder helps clients Choose Energy Saving Roofs

2009-03-28T02:19:00.000-07:00

Changing just the color of a roof can cool it by 80°F and cut energy bills by up to 40%.

Depending on a roofs color and location, roof temperatures can easily reach 190°F, and dark roofs absorb as much as 95% of the suns heat, which can dramatically jack up cooling costs. Studies by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Florida Solar Energy Center show that cool roofs result in up to 40% energy savings. They estimate that about $750 million in utility-bill savings could be realized each year in the United States through cool-roof technology. A roof is generally considered a (cool roof), if its components and design lower roof temperatures by 50°F to 60°F. The chemical company BASF cites studies showing that when a black roof has a surface temperature of 190°F, an identical white roof in the same setting will be just 110°F. (At the Energy Star site, you can calculate savings by roof type.) But you really do not need a scientific study to know that black roofs are hotter than lighter-colored roofs (or tile roof systems that allow air to flow beneath them).

Yet many builders and contractors will not risk putting a light-colored roof on a spec home (and buyers seem loath to select them as options), because light roofs are not fashionable, and buyers fear difficulty re-selling a home with a roof that sticks out like a sore thumb.But now, with the advance of roofing technology, especially from 3M and BASF, a number of cool-roof options (reflective coatings for metal roofs, reflective granules for three-tab shingles, and reflective cool-roof concrete tile systems) are available that allow you to spec or offer cool roofs sheathed with dark-looking shingles. These technologies join widely available radiant barrier products, like LPs very effective TechShield radiant barrier. So, good-looking, high-performing cool roofs are within reach. They just take some work to spec and source, and they cost more up front, sometimes four times as much as traditional shingle roofs. Therefore, the challenge for builders is to achieve a premium market price for their higher-cost cool roofs, by explaining to home buyers that a return on their investment will be realized through years of lower utility bills. Visit our website at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why Advantage Development Co. is the best builder in Asheville and the surrounding WNC area.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Talks about Energy Tax Credits

2009-03-27T02:39:00.000-07:00

Tax credits are now available for home improvements:

They must be "placed in service" from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010. Must be for taxpayer's principal residence. $1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 for most home improvements, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and windmills which are not subject to this cap, and are in effect through 2016. Must have a Manufacturer Certification Statement to qualify. Improvements made in 2009 will be claimed on your 2009 taxes (filed by April 15, 2010), use IRS Tax Form 5695 (2009 version), it will be available late 2009 or early 2010.

If you are building a new home, you can qualify for the tax credit for geothermal heat pumps, photovoltaics, solar water heaters, small wind systems and fuel cells, but not the tax credits for windows, doors, insulation, roofs, HVAC, or non-solar water heaters. Advantage Development Co. in Asheville, NC is a certified green builder and Energy Star partner. Call us today at 828.215.9064 or visit us at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why we are the better builder. Need "Green" Certification on that new home? We are a LEED Certified Green Builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder Helps Homeowners Position Skylights

2009-03-26T02:38:00.000-07:00

A variety of skylight shapes exist for sloping or flat roofs. Some skylight shafts exert nearly as much influence over the energy properties as the actual skylight itself. Sky lighting may take the form of general glazed areas such as atria, attached conservatories or sun spaces. In this form roof lights are less likely to be factory-manufactured items and more likely to be constructed on-site. Excellent day lighting is provided by skylights which have the potential to displace much artificial lighting, improving light quality, reducing heat generation and saving on energy costs. Under an unobstructed, overcast sky the amount of light, or luminance, from directly above (the zenith) is about three times as much as from the horizon.

A skylight can admit more than three times as much light as a vertical window of the same size. While this performance differential may be reduced in reality (ex. by a long shaft), in most situations a skylight has the potential to be a very effective day lighting device. Even under overcast conditions use of skylights can result in spaces that can be predominantly daylit with little supplementary artificial lighting required. Additional energy needed for space heating and cooling because of thermal movement through larger window areas will be minimized. The right size of skylight admits just enough light for the job and no more. Several methods exist for helping to decide on the size and spacing of skylights. Advantage Development Co. In Asheville, NC has extensive experience in the sizing & placement of skylights in your new custom home. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why we are the better builder.

Asheville NC Custom Builder explains SEER Ratings

2009-03-25T02:41:00.000-07:00

SEER stands for the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER rating of a unit, the more energy efficient it is. The SEER rating is the Btu of cooling output during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy. SEER is determined in a laboratory setting to rate the efficiency of the equipment only. It is also important to remember that SEER is only speaking to the efficiency of the cooling capacity of the HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) In the home or small office with a handful of computers, HVAC is more for human comfort than the machines. In large data centers, a humidity-free room with a steady, cool temperature is essential for the trouble-free equipment. There are other components of an HVAC system that also affect the efficiency of the system. Think of it this way: You could buy a Toyota Prius that is rated to get 55mpg, but if you load it down with 5 people, poke a few holes in the gas tank, and never change the fuel filter, you'll be fortunate to get 25mpg.

Duct leakage also results in a large decrease in your system's overall efficiency. What would happen to the system's efficiency if it was pulling thirty percent of its return air from the attic, instead of the living space? Do you think it would cause the efficiency to go down? You bet! What if your supply duct work was losing 25 percent of its air into the attic or crawl space? What would this do to the efficiency of your system? This equates to having a hole in the gas tank of your Toyota Prius--not a good idea. Duct leakage also decreases (IAQ) Indoor Air Quality considerably by pulling in air from unhealthy places.

Studies show that less than two percent of residential HVAC systems have been properly air-balanced. The average residential HVAC system performs at 50 to 65 percent of its rated efficiency, due to the imbalance of airflow, excessive duct leakage, lack of insulation, and improper charge. This means that your brand new 19 SEER unit that is installed onto improperly designed ductwork may be performing at a 9.5 to 12.5 SEER Rating. Advantage Development Co. has third party experts that verify the quality of construction that goes into your new custom home, assuring that every system operates to peak performance thus saving you the most energy. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why we should be your next builder in Asheville, NC and surrounding Western North Carolina.

Asheville NC Builder has Mixed Emotions on Bamboo Flooring

2009-03-24T03:29:00.000-07:00

The environmental benefits are great, but the flooring itself is awful. We have had mixed experiences with it ourselves and decided to look more closely. Before we look at the environmental issues, let's look at its utility- is it all it is cracked up to be? One of the major benefits touted by vendors is how hard and tough it is, well it is Not. The popular carbonized darker bamboos are comparable to Black Walnut, considered a soft hardwood, and the lighter natural colors test comparable to maple. (Color is achieved not by staining but by heating, and the longer it heats the softer it gets)

It is like any wood floor- it is damaged by dents, scratches and the killer of all wood floors, high heels. Jazzy aluminum oxide finish or not, it is a natural material that should not be marketed as being harder or more durable than conventional wood flooring.

Bamboo flooring can be green. There is no question that bamboo is a renewable resource, it is a grass and grows very quickly. Where oak takes 120 years to grow to maturity, bamboo can be harvested in three. It is recognized as a green material under LEED and as they said in Environmental Building News, Environmentally, it is hard to argue with a wood substitute that matures in three years, regenerates without need for replanting, and requires minimal fertilization or pesticides.

However it is clear that bamboo is not necessarily being managed in a sustainable fashion. It is true that it naturally regenerates, but forests are being cleared to grow it and it is becoming a monoculture. Although it is claimed that fertilizers are not necessary, in fact they are being used to increase yield. Recently, bamboo expansion has come at the expense of natural forests, shrubs, and low-yield mixed plantations . . . It is common practice to cut down existing trees and replace them with bamboo. Advantage Development Co. located in Asheville, N.C. believes in green technology, but neither encourages or discourages the use of bamboo flooring in new home construction. Visit Advantage Development Co. today at http://www.advdevco.com/ or call us at 828-215-9064, you will be glad you did.

Asheville NC Custom Builder uses Granite for its Beauty, Durability, and Resale Value

2009-03-23T01:56:00.000-07:00

Kitchen granite countertops are created by nature and fashioned by man are a beautiful, durable and cost effective choice for kitchens and baths. The term granite comes from the Latin root word granum, which means "grain." Granite is often imported from Europe, Africa, Brazil and other regions of the world rich in natural stone. Granite is an attractive natural stone that will add color and warmth to your kitchen. Granite is an extremely hard material that will not blister, scratch or crack. The hardness of granite is rivaled only be the hardness of diamonds. In fact diamonds are used to cut and polish granite.

Over the last 10 years kitchen granite countertops have become popular with homeowners, after first being popular with designers for decades. Granite is available in hundreds of colors, from various shades of white to browns, reds, greens, blues, and black. The most popular tones are brown and beige. As well as being hard kitchen granite countertops can take hot items, like pots and pans, and is very stain resistant to hot grease and oil if it is sealed with a silicone-based impregnator. It can easily be cleaned and cut for a basin. Granite has a cool polished surface that makes it an excellent surface for rolling out pastry dough. The polished finish of granite will not wear off.

Kitchen granite countertops are unique because no two pieces of granite are exactly the same; therefore granite provides an interesting design element and adds certain richness and texture to your kitchen not found in other surfaces. Kitchen granite countertops can create a brilliance and elegance that is only found in nature. Granite adds a personality and character to kitchen countertops that is unsurpassed. Kitchen granite countertops have a natural beauty that is capable of complementing any tone of wood or style of cabinets. The investment you make in kitchen granite countertops should pay you back at least three times what you invested. If you are selling your home you will find that home buyers wanting kitchen granite countertops will be willing to pay more for your home than if you have ceramic tile or plastic laminate. Advantage Development Co. in Asheville, NC loves installing granite countertops in all of our custom homes. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ or call us at 828-215-9064 for a free consultation.

Asheville NC Builder Tells Home Owners why Triple Pane Windows are Better

2009-03-22T02:56:00.000-07:00

When it comes to saving energy thanks to better home insulation, a triple pane window is among the very best choices. The point is to stop all that heat from transferring to the outside straight through the windows, and a triple pane window can do just that. Remember that three panes of glass, means six surfaces of windowpane. This in turn means more surfaces for low-e coatings that can keep the thermal energy produced indoors where it belongs, and not heating up the air outside your home.

There are also insulation benefits to triple glass windows because of the two internal fill spaces rather than just one as in double paned. These spaces are filled with air, argon or sometimes krypton and work to stop heat transfer, as well as cutting down on noise. A window is only as effective as its frame allows it to be however. So be sure to check yours is being made by a quality manufacturer who provides full information about U values. Advantage Development Co. recommends windows made by Weather Shield, Hurd, Pella, and JELD-WEN. Visit us today at http://www.advdevco.com/ and see why we are better.