The Importance of Using Sustainable Building Materials

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Factors to consider when making green home

October, 10 2023

The construction industry is quickly adapting to sustainable practices to prevent environmental degradation and climate change. This is the reason why many homeowners are also opting for sustainable products and systems when constructing their homes. A green home is essentially a house that is built with eco-friendly materials and one that can operate in an energy-efficient manner. If you want to ensure your home aligns with this eco-friendly approach, you need to consider a few factors first. Here, we discuss some of the factors to consider when building a green home: 

  1. Energy efficiency: 

Minimising energy consumption is perhaps the most important aspect of a green home. This can be done by choosing building materials carefully. For instance, materials that offer increased insulation need to be used. The insulated rooms tend to keep indoor temperatures in the comfortable range, regardless of the temperature outside. So, in a well-insulated room, you are less likely to switch on the AC or heater.

Energy-efficient appliances can also reduce carbon emissions from your household. At the same time, you can rely on solar power by installing specialised panels. Using such alternative sources of energy can help limit the reliance on fossil fuels. 

  1. Sustainable materials: 

To construct a green home, you need to use materials that are sustainable and eco-friendly. For instance, environmentally friendly concrete can ensure a massive reduction in carbon emissions related to a project. Also, you have to consider how the concrete is being manufactured. Some concrete, such as the Ecodure range, are produced using sustainable means and reduce carbon emissions by up to 60% by adding more SCM and recycled aggregates. All of these properties ensure that the Ecodure range helps protect the environment.   

  1. Water efficiency: 

You must also ensure water conservation efforts are initiated to keep your home sustainable. Building systems specifically for rainwater harvesting is the easiest way to reduce reliance on groundwater. Doing so can also reduce utility expenses.  Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to store rainwater that falls on your rooftop and building. You can use harvested rainwater for gardening, laundry, car wash and flushing toilets which can reduce your water bills. Also, rainwater harvesting can help counter water shortages and drought-like situations.

  1. Indoor air quality: 

Proper ventilation can help ensure healthy and fresh air quality indoors. So, instead of shutting down the windows and doors to switch on air conditioners or heaters, it is better to allow natural air to regulate the room temperatures. Maintaining air quality does not just help the environment. It also ensures that residents remain healthy and do not develop respiratory conditions.

  1. Waste reduction: 

During construction, you should minimise material waste by recycling and using products from existing structures. Recycling building materials can greatly aid in resource conservation. The aim of a green home should be to generate as little waste as possible. So, you must come up with creative ideas to incorporate recycled materials in the construction.

Looking for eco-friendly concrete options?

Explore Ecodure. It reduces CO2 emissions by up to 30% and helps make your house construction eco-friendly. The Ecodure Prime is another sustainable concrete available, which can help reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%. Lastly, the Ecodure Plus reduces the CO2 emissions by 60%. All of these green concrete solutions help you towards achieving a green home.  If you want to know more on green building and infrastructure, check some useful insights here.