As we know, Going Green has been a thing for quite some time. 

The construction industry has begun using eco-friendly building materials, as more and more folks are looking to conserve water, energy, and natural resources. People are continuing to shift their  focus to sustainability and the environment. Of course, builders are also faced with mandates about reducing carbon emissions, as the Climate Mobilization Act continues to change the old way of doing things. 

In recent years, these environmentally friendly products and materials have revolutionized the industry and will only continue to do so. revolutionized the industry in recent years. The following are the top eco-friendly trends in this industry.

Living Roofs

Live roofs, living roofs, or green roofs consist of soil, plants, flowers, rocks, and other natural features. They make up an overlay of eco-friendly vegetation. Live roofs have a lifespan of approximately 40 years when kept in good condition. On the other hand, a standard roof has a lifespan of roughly 20 years. Live roofs are frequently used in hotels. They have a fantastic look and easily stand out. The following are some benefits of a live, green roof.

• Green roofs provides an buffer for rainwater – and more so recycle that rainwater

• Green roofs are oxygenators and air purifiers.  

• They play integral role in regulating indoor temperatures in any season.

• These roofs encourages biodiversity and save energy. Green environments and surroundings are vibrant and exude that happiness to the people in those spaces. This is part of an ongoing trend called biophilic living spaces – which speaks to sustainability, environmental conscientiousness, and natural aesthetics.

Interesting fact: The Ansonia Luxury Hotel on the Upper West Side in New York City had the first living farm on its roof in the early 20^th century. The farm included vegetation, as well as a variety of animals – until it were eventually closed down by the department of health after several years. 

Insulated Concrete Forms 

Wood frame home construction as been around for decades. However, like water prices rising, the price of lumber continues to rise for obvious reasons – and at an alarmingly high rate. Problems with wood frame constructions include: damage due to strong winds; contraction and expansion due to weather; and wood frames are prone to fire destruction.

ICF is an efficient solution to wood frameworks – Not only is it durable, it is both fire-resistant and moisture-resistant.

Reclaimed Wood Trim

Wood may not be the best material for frames, but it is suitable for other uses. Reclaimed wood is commonly used to create hardwood shelves, cabinetry, and floors. It is also preferred for decorative wall paneling. Reclaimed lumber saves new timber from being cut down. It is a key component of being eco-friendly and upcycling. 

Straw Bale Construction

Traditional straw bale home construction is a low-tech and affordable way to be ecologically responsible with the building of your home. Straw bales can be made using waste from the agricultural industry. The common plants used include wheat, rice, rye, and oats straw. Benefits of straw bale construction:

· Straw bales are biodegradable but can last for more than 100 years. However, they need proper maintenance for this to happen.

· The insulation provided by straw bales is more effective in hot and cold climates. Homes remain essentially comfortable in any weather.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingle technology is helping do away with the large solar panels. Solar shingles are designed to fit and blend with your roof design. They are decorative and also serve the function of tiles. Their use has become a popular trend for the following reasons:

• Installation is easy.

• They reduce energy bills; help you cut down on utilities.

• Solar shingles are quite easy to maintain and replace if necessary.

• They offer a clean, natural source of energy, thus reducing your family’s carbon footprint and helping in the efforts of climate change and sustainability. 

The availability of eco-friendly materials has transformed the construction industry. It has made builders construct more environmentally friendly houses. The majority of these materials are affordable, durable, and safe for your surroundings. These materials are important to the industry as we move toward more environmental consciousness and improve our sustainability efforts.  

Other Green, Eco-Friendly Building Materials:

• Bamboo

• Earthen materials: adobe, rammed earth

• Stone – Naturally occurring and long lasting, stone is versatile. It can be used for exterior walls and flooring. It holds up very well against weathering.

• Cork – A great insulator, cork can help you save money on electric during those cold winter months. Corkboard insulation also makes for great sound insulation.

• Sand bags

• Cellulose, which is recycled paper waste used globally for structural insulation.

• Slate roofing 

• Steel – Steel roof panels and shingles are highly durable and can be recycled repeatedly. Steel is among the best green choices for roofing. 

• Thatch – Made of dry straw and dry reed, these are the oldest roofing materials. It is widely available, cheap, and an excellent insulator. 

• Fiberglass – It is used in the form of fiberglass bats and although it contains some toxic binding agents, its superior insulation efficiency – it is considered a green building material.

• Polyurethane foam is available in spray form. It offers great insulation and prevents air leakage. 

• Cotton – Natural fibers like cotton and wool can also be used as insulation materials; these fibers can be converted into a batt and installed in preformed wooden frame sections. 

Related Links:

Casandra Properties Blog

TheConstructor.org

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