How To Make Your New Home Construction Green

Even if it feels like not enough is being done to help curb carbon emissions and benefit the environment, there are things that you can do in order to reduce the carbon emissions that you release. If it is necessary for you to have a new home constructed, it is important that your home be constructed in a way that reduces the amount of carbon emissions that it releases.

Build A Small Home

The smaller your home, the better it will be for the environment. This will mean that your home will require less materials and it will also mean that it will take less energy to heat and cool. It is still important that your home be large enough to accommodate friends and family members, though. Sharing bedrooms and spending more time outside can make a smaller home more manageable.

Don't Cut Down Trees

Try to avoid cutting down trees and instead let the placement of the trees dictate the design of your home. The trees add beauty to your home and are an important part of reducing carbon emissions. Trees give a home shade and help keep it cool. 

Use Angled Windows

Have your home be constructed with angled windows. These allow for the maximum amount of light to enter. Also, the windows can open like trap doors to allow for more air to circulate in. 

Mix Green And Conventional Building Methods

Constructing a home that is made entirely out of green materials is often not a practical option. However, increasing the number of green materials that are used to construct a home is a good idea. For example, you may need to use a solid concrete foundation even if this is not the greenest option. However, using a more sustainable wood for the construction of many parts of your home will make it better for the environment. Wherever possible, use recycled materials or use materials that can be recycled. Recycled plastic, recycled glass, and reclaimed lumber are an important part of making a home more eco-friendly. 

Consider Alternative Foundations

The foundation is one part of a home that is the most likely to be conventional because of how concrete protects against moisture infiltration. However, there are other foundations that are unconventional and may work. For example, your home could be constructed on rammed earth. This is compacted subsoil, which can serve as the base for the building's walls. Another option is a rubble foundation.


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