Building a new home or office building can be an expensive proposition. One way to save money in the long run is to use energy efficient construction materials. These materials help keep the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Rammed earth, natural materials, and reused steel are the ideal materials to utilize when building an energy-efficient home. Also, there are insulated concrete kinds that are great at retaining heat. Installing a cool roof, particularly when paired with solar panels, is just another “industry best.”
Here are nine energy-efficient materials for your home or building construction:
Insulating Concrete Forms
It creates a solid form from an insulating layer rather than wood and the typical material. Therefore, the formation is left in place while the cement wall or foundation is poured typically.
According to experts, insulated concrete form structures consume up to 20% less energy to heat and are more relaxed than the standard construction.
PIR Foam Energy Bricks
These are also known as ‘Green Energy Bricks’ designed to replace hollow or porous cement blocks. Polyisocyanurate, also known as PIR, is good and has a high-density structural foam. According to the supplier, PIR foam bricks insulate up to 16 times better than regular concrete blocks.
Earth
People have been using soil to build their houses since the beginning of civilization. Houses formed of rammed earth are robust and durable. Also, the CSIRO study, an Australian Government agency responsible for scientific research, has shown that those are weather resistant.
The soil’s thickness & density might shield you from harsh weather and outside noise. Because it is fire and pest resistant, it requires minor maintenance. It is one of the most environmentally and health-friendly building materials available.
Indeed, the earth is abundant and inexpensive, but finding a skilled artisan who understands how to construct structures out of it is challenging. Your expenses may rise as a result of locating such a person.
Recycled Steel
A typical house necessitates the planting of 40-50 trees to build. On the other hand, steel corresponding to six junk automobiles can build the same structure. Steel is among the most recyclable resources, with two out of every 3 pounds of new steel being made from old steel, thus research states. They are also an environmentally friendly option thanks to reduced CO2 emissions.
Considering your geographic factors, if you live in an earthquake-prone or elevated zone, steel holds up well enough against specific issues, and you may adapt steel beams to meet your demands, according to Steel Recycling Institute (SRI).
Constructing a building needs approval and permission from the state for compliance. For example, bca certifiers ensure a seamless and coordinated process from start to finish, particularly on building projects in Australia. BCA Certifiers offer professional advice and service on all aspects of building regulations and building approvals.
Composite Lumber Made of Plastic
It is much more resilient and less hazardous than commonly treated wood and is often made with plastic wastes and wood fiber.
It’s also mold and rot resistant and more hard in the cold and malleable in the heat than simply plastic construction materials. The picture shows the anti-slip version, ideal for restrooms and outdoor decks.
Low-E Windows
Low-E windows, often called “high performance” windows, are yet another excellent alternative for regular glass to reduce heat in the summer and block infrared radiation. They feature a metal oxide layer that is transparent.
It also aids in the retention of heat during the cold. In addition, they can limit heat transfer by approximately 50%.
Cool Roof
The concept of cool roofing has almost been around for 15 years. It will promote the dissipation of heat and significantly lower warm temperatures within your household. It’s also beneficial to the environment since it reduces the amount of heat in the air.
The term is a little inaccurate. These roofs don’t chill your house like an air conditioner; instead, they get their term from their reflectiveness. It reflects sunlight, reducing the amount of heat temperature in your home.
Structural Insulated Panels
A sheet of foam insulation is layered between plywood or concrete panels to generate this product. It can be used for flooring, foundations, basements, load-bearing sidewalls and is fireproof.
Although you have a range of materials to choose from, the concept stays the same. This material can significantly lower your electricity bill. If you want to learn more about this, you can contact a handyman services firm.
Plant-based Polyurethane Insulation
This resource was first designed as a surfboard construction material produced from bamboo, kelp, and even hemp rather than petrochemicals. As a result, it performs better than typical fiberglass insulation in moisture and heat resistance.
Final Words
Every building material does have its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Choose the options that best suit your needs depending on your geographical and design requirements. For example, when designing an energy-efficient home or structure, make sure to consider all possible viewpoints.
You don’t have to use all of the above materials to construct your home, but then if one of them appeals to you, you can be confident that you made the proper decision.
