Deciding to build a home from scratch is a big undertaking, but also making the decision to build an eco-friendly home adds another layer of complexity. More and more people are pursuing a greener way of life, and the market for eco-friendly property design is certainly on the up.
Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all way answer to an eco-friendly lifestyle as everyone needs to find their own path, but if you are considering leading a life that is kinder to the planet, there are some common motivations to keep in mind. Here are 5 reasons to build a home that is eco-friendly.
1. You will reduce your carbon footprint
The major drive behind most eco-friendly building projects is one of environmental concern. We have damaged the planet we call home, and if we do not act quickly, the damage could be irreparable. Every person, family, property, business, town, state, and country are leaving a carbon footprint behind them, i.e., they are emitting greenhouse gases that are heating up the planet. By ensuring that your home’s carbon footprint is as small as possible, you are helping to save the world.
2. You could save money
The prices of electricity and gas are increasing, and with the world’s population on the rise, this is only going to get worse. Renewable heating systems are not only low-carbon emitters but often cheaper to run than traditional systems. Water-conserving shower heads, faucets, and low-flush toilets will minimize your water usage, and if you install a solar PV system like SunPower solar panels on your roof, you can generate your own supply of free electricity to significantly reduce your bills.
3. Eco-homes are easier to maintain
Eco-homes should have very little impact on the environment around them. Constructing a home with materials that are natural and have minimal environmental impact can often mean that the home is more durable and requires less ongoing maintenance. This means your property will keep its condition and will not cost as much to repair or refresh. Click here to find out more about eco-friendly building materials.
4. Eco-friendly living is healthier
A lot of the building materials that we have come to accept as standard contain harmful chemicals and pollutants. This may come from the way they are produced or their ingredients, but they are not kind to the health of the planet or to humans. Building a home with natural, eco-friendly materials creates a cleaner living space for you and your family.
5. You could increase your property’s value
Property buyers are becoming increasingly conscious about the environment, their carbon footprint, and the importance of keeping energy use as minimal as possible. This is likely to have an impact on the market, i.e., buyers may be willing to pay more for a home that is econ-friendly, built from high-quality, durable materials, and energy-efficient. Therefore, making the right choices in your property design now could make a big impact on its value now and in the future.
