With construction booming and many people considering making improvements to their homes, or even a new build, it is more important than ever to consider our environmental impact. Construction projects have come a long way in reducing waste, finding efficient ways to cut downtime and thinking of the environment.
There are still more ways you can make your construction project even greener. If you’re embarking on a new build or a renovation, try using some of these green alternatives in your construction project.
Earthworks and digging
Excavation is a fundamental part of any major building project, especially if you are building a new home, or perhaps putting a pool in the backyard. Excavations can be very disruptive parts of the construction process and unsettle a lot of earth that doesn’t need to be unsettled.
Vacuum excavation is a greener alternative to your earthmoving phase of the project. Vacuum excavation used high-pressure water with an air vacuum to remove or relocate earth without the destructive processes used in traditional excavation.
It’s a cleaner and more targeted way to dig and move the earth. Unlike traditional methods, vacuum excavation doesn’t disturb the earth unnecessarily or in a destructive way. It’s also a fantastic way to avoid damage to any existing infrastructure on your property, such as pipes or cabling. Vacuum excavation is a green alternative that is more efficient and help creates far less mess on the site as well.
Recycled materials
When doing any kind of construction project, always ask yourself whether you need to buy new, or can you use recycled materials. Bricks are a fantastic example of where you can use recycled materials and potentially save some costs from your final invoice.
There are many recycled brickyards around that you can source bricks from to complete your project and help save the environment at the same time. You may not get the same brick for the entire project, which is a small price to pay for helping to lower the impact on the environment.
Recycled timber is another great material to consider using on your construction project. With timber shortages ongoing, it may also be easier to source. Depending on your project, recycled timber can be a great way to introduce character and help lower the environmental impact as well.
Greener materials
Construction materials are not all created equal, and some are better for the environment than others. On your construction project, consider opting for the greener options, such as flooring. Bamboo floors are a fantastic option and are great for the environment. Bamboo grows in abundance, and it grows quick. This means there is less of a challenge in restoring forests when the bamboo is harvested for processing.
Alternative materials to consider are natural materials such as concrete, which will help draw in warmth for those cooler months as well. These natural materials are a great way to use materials available from the earth and lower reliance on heaters in the future.
A roof over your head
The roof is one of the most important considerations when it comes to making greener choices on your project. The material you use on your roof can help lower reliance on electricity to heat and cool your home in the future.
Metal roofing is great for deflecting heat and is perfect in hotter climates. The steel used is 100% recyclable as well. This is a great option for creating a more eco-friendly home. Search online for ‘best metal buildings contractor near me’ to find the best people in your area.
If you do opt for a metal roof, make sure that the metal you choose works with your home. It’s wise to speak to a variety of professionals to assess your needs and discuss what type of metal roofing installation will work for you and how to get it going.
In addition to the material, consider using your roof as an asset for more than just keeping you dry. Use it to capture energy.
Solar panels on your roof can help you capture the sun’s energy and transfer that into cost savings and lower your usage of electricity and gas. Solar panels are a fantastic green alternative to your roofing solution. If you’re building new, make sure you investigate your solar options.
Design the project right
Green alternatives aren’t only about what you put in your home, it’s about how you design your home. The design is integral to capturing the greenest energy of them all, the sun.
Positioning your home appropriately and designing the layout properly will mean you can use the sun’s energy more efficiently. Often, new home floor plans do not take full advantage of natural light, with windows usually being blocked by internal walls or screens. This can make rooms cold and dark, but with clever planning, it’s possible to heat your home more naturally. Ensure your design pays close attention to the sun’s trajectory and you’ll help save the environment through the project and beyond.
Thinking green for your construction project is an important part of lowering the impact both now and into the future. From initial design to excavation, and right through to the materials you use to build, making greener choices will save both you and the environment. If you’re starting your next project soon, consider using these greener alternatives to help lower your impact.
Shift Frequency © 2022 – Green alternatives to
your construction project