Being green is no longer just a trend but a lifestyle choice. With the Earth in desperate need of sustainable practices and more conscious decision making, it’s up to us to make the change and be more aware of the decision, projects and purchases we make.
One great way of being more environmentally friendly is to build a greener home. If constructing your own property has always been something you want to do, this is the perfect opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment by creating a green home.
The process may seem a little overwhelming, but we’re on hand to guide you through some of the best ways of building an environmentally friendly home from construction to fittings. Read on for all you need to know.
What is an environmentally-friendly home?
There are many different factors that can make a home environmentally friendly, but generally speaking, it’s a property that promotes sustainability, has a reduced carbon footprint and is a low impact home. These features can be part of the home’s actual structure or the way it’s used by the homeowners. Others argue that certification is needed by green building programs to ensure a property meets sustainability standards, however, any green changes to a property are beneficial and will make a positive impact on the planet.
At Integrated Designs, we have a large portfolio of work including domestic and commercial projects. Whatever your ideas are, our dedicated team is on hand to see them through to fruition. If an eco-friendly build is the next idea on your list, it’s important that you get the basics right with high-quality architectural work. With a high reputation, our architectural services are just what you need! Find out more today.
Using sustainable building materials
One of the best ways to start off your build in a green way is by using sustainable building materials. Recycled materials, for example, reduce the amount of waste we have as a planet as well as emissions and protection of non-renewable resources. Many people are concerned that alternative materials may not create the high-quality finish they desire but this is not the case. These durable materials are suitable for a range of applications and can last just as long as traditional materials.
Recycled aggregates
Aggregates are a prime material in construction, however, taking raw materials from the saw to create aggregates is not a sustainable practice. Over the years, we have taken these kinds of materials at a faster rate than they are being renewed which means capacity is low. Continuing with this will eventually lead to the complete destruction of our virgin materials. However, recycled aggregates are much less harmful as they are pre-used and still very durable for construction projects. They are also cheaper than standard aggregates which are ideal for keeping your budget in check.
Recycled plastic
Plastic has become one of the most problematic materials due to its inability to break down, unlike recyclable materials. As a result, tonnes of plastic have ended up in landfills where they will stay for years to come. Reusing plastic for construction purposes is a great way of avoiding this and putting it to better use. Plastic is a lightweight, versatile material that can be used to create roofing tiles, windows, bricks and carpeting, and is, therefore, an extremely useful material across all building applications.
Bamboo
As a sustainable plant that grows in abundance, bamboo has become a popular choice for those seeking eco-friendly materials in all sectors. The plant’s rate of self-generation is very high and some species can grow three feet tall in 24 hours! It has a high strength to weight ratio which has greater strength than brick or concrete which is great for construction. Bamboo has been used to build floors, walls and roofs across the world and could be perfect for your project too.
Consider the size of the build
If you’re trying to be environmentally conscious, then you should consider the size of your build. Whether you are building a home for yourself or to sell, be mindful about how your design will impact the environment. It’s easy to get excited when building a home and add more and more features as you go but keeping things small will save energy and keep the build manageable.
Invest in high-quality insulation
Insulation is what keeps a home warm and energy-efficient and reduces the need for high thermostat levels and keeping your central heating on for extended periods. Heating and cooling account for 50% of your home’s energy consumption and this can be improved in many ways.
Wall insulation
Investing in cavity wall insulation will significantly reduce heat loss so your property stays cosy. It also works in reverse by keeping your house cooler in the summer months. There are a number of materials that can be used for wall insulation including cork and wool, simply do a little research and see what’s out there. It may be pricier than standard insulation but in the long run it can make a big difference and reduce your carbon footprint.
Choose energy-efficient windows and doors
Did you know that homes can lose up to 40% of warmth through poorly fitted windows? Gaps around the window frame or draughts coming in through old doors are responsible for heat loss which could then affect your energy bills. Invest in energy rated windows and doors such as double glazing, will lock in heat and contribute to yearly savings.
Eco-friendly finishing touches
Once you’ve completed the bulk of the construction work it’s time to move inside the home. Some of the top internal features that you can add include:
Energy saving lighting
Another way to save energy is to invest in eco-friendly lighting. Halogen bulbs, for example, use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Since they offer significant cost savings in the long run, they can be ideal for your new green home.
Upcycled furniture
When furnishing your new property, try and recycle as much as you can in the form of old furniture and upcycling. Charity shops, carboot sales online marketplaces have so many great gems that you can purchase at a fraction of the price as you create a chain or reused goods. Give them a lick of paint and they’ll look like new!
Integrated Designs: Architectural Services in Birmingham
Building your own property is an amazing achievement, but to ensure the build goes smoothly you need a reliable team behind you. At Integrated Designs in Birmingham, we have experience in a range of residential building projects, providing the expert advice and skills to turn your ideas into reality.
If you don’t know where to begin with your environmentally friendly project, our residential architects can help. After discussing your ideas and requirements, we can draw up professional design plans and work alongside you through the entire project. We love taking on exciting construction projects and our 27 years of experience makes us the perfect team for the job.
Choose a trustworthy and professional team of architects for your build. Get in touch with us today for more information.
