Energy Efficiency
Per Build Direct, Energy efficiency, environmental impact, and occupant health have been main concerns of the construction industry for many years. The trend for the coming year is that these aspects are increasing in importance for builders. Customers want healthy homes with low operating costs, things that affect them directly.
2016 Green Building Trends
Net positive homes
A home that uses all the energy it produces, a net zero home, has been the goal of many green builders for a long time. Renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and geothermal, are used in tandem to provide the energy needs of the occupants.
Net zero is now going one step further. A net positive home produces more than the energy necessary to operate. The surplus goes back into the grid or powers electric cars, equipment, and tools. This is not a new concept, but it’s clear why it will gain in popularity.
Hemp insulation and energy efficiency
Building insulation is green in itself, because it cuts cooling and heating bills. Some types are more effective and efficient than others. Some off-gas or have dirty supply chains making them not-so-green.
Nano insulation
On the high-tech front, nano insulation should see a rise in popularity, too. This is a water-and-silica based material that is sprayed on in a thin layer. It can cover roofs and walls to stop heat transfer, due to the tiny air pockets, or pores, created by the formula. It can be applied to windows to cut heating and cooling usage while still allowing more than 90% light transmission. It is non-toxic, being water based, and may cut energy use up to 25%.
Cool Roofs
Cool roofs can provide energy savings of 7-15% of total cooling costs and reduce temperature fluctuations on the interior of a home.
Recycled Steel Framing
A 2,000 sq. ft. home requires 40-50 trees to build the home. A home framed with recycled steel can reduce assembly time, greatly reduce waste and may lower overall line item costs.
Eco-Friendly Flooring
Using products such as bamboo, cork, recycled glass, metal, ceramic, stone and recycyled wood make sense.
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