Are you getting ready to build your dream home? Or maybe you’re still in the planning/saving process. Wherever you stand right now, it is never too early to take eco-friendly home ideas into consideration. You might be thinking about the common idea that building an eco-friendly house is way too expensive for the average person. While there is some truth to this, there are many options to look at if you are serious about building an eco-friendly home.
You may not end up with the most hi-tech home, but by paying attention to little details here and there, you can have the house you want, lessen your impact on the environment, and not spend more than you have/want to.
Use recycled building materials
Recycling is not just a concept. Some people may talk more than actually do something about it, but if you are truly passionate about making your contribution to the conservation of the environment, then recycling is one of the simplest ways you can do it. From the wood materials to countertops to windows to insulation – you can consult with builders to find recycled materials to use. This will definitely lower the carbon footprint of your house.
An added note: It might be difficult to use 100% recycled materials for your house, so you can also opt for materials that are not recycled but eco-friendly.
Incorporate energy-saving features
You might start out with additional costs by incorporating energy-saving features from the get-go, but the long-term benefits will more than make up for it. Consider natural ventilation to help with insulation concerns. Consider water-saving plumbing as well. And depending on where you live, you might be able to get tax breaks or discounts for solar panels and similar features. Check government regulations and guides for energy savings at home to help you with this.
Don’t forget the lawn
When planning your new home, don’t make the mistake of focusing only on the building. You can also add to the green factor by considering the surroundings. For example, one of the things you can do is to create a low-impact lawn.
What does that mean? For one, instead of using bagged grass seed for the entire lawn, why not use native plants? And, instead of having a humongous lawn of grass, why not create pockets of wildflowers to frame a smaller lawn? This will not only help you save on fuel for the lawn mower but also give your lawn a characteristic look.
Consider alternative housing options
If you’re willing to totally ditch the traditional way of building a house, there is always the option of modular housing. This type of housing makes use of modules, or pre-fabricated parts of the house, which are built in factories and then assembled on site. They are eco-friendly and relatively cheaper. Sustainable eco homes built by Modscape, for example, present many different options with regard to style and size. At the end of the day, you will be able to satisfy your needs and preferences – from budget to aesthetics to quality.
Image via The Innovation Diaries