From Guest Blogger Lana Hawkins: Recent Trends in Sustainable Building and Homes

Over the past few decades, green building and preservation of the environment are trending. People tend to green up their houses or start building eco-friendly from scratch. In order to help the environment and build a sustainable healthy home for you and your family, you should check out some of the latest trends and try incorporating them into your house.

Embrace the Solar Power

Consumption of electricity has increased with new technologies and various climate changes. Our homes sometimes require more energy in order to stay comfortable, and there is something you can do to preserve all the energy you use. Simply put – switch to solar power. Solar panels are financially viable, they can save you plenty of money and are environmentally friendly. All they do is sit on your roof or lawn and capture sun’s energy and light which they then transform into electricity. However, you cannot just put the panels wherever you want. Rather, consult with the professionals and see which position will capture the most power needed to power your home.

Cool Roofs

Cool roofs do not only look cool, but they can improve energy savings up to 15% of total cooling costs. They can also reduce temperature fluctuation in your home with the help of materials such as foam, tile, metal and rubber polymers. Basically, you should ditch the wood frames and invest in ones made of recycled steel for your roof. Another benefit of such roofs is that they are steady and strong enough to protect you from harsh winds and earthquakes. However, in order to choose the right materials, sizes and styles for your new home, you should definitely consult with reliable professionals, and you are just a click away from building a sustainable steady home.

Green Roofs

These roofs have multiple purposes. They support the biodiversity of life in our environment, they provide enough sound and energy insulation for your home, clean the air and reduce storm water runoffs. The look and diversity of your green roof will only depend on your choices and flora that you can actually grow in your climate. Additionally, birds and bees can happily roam around and feed, while your home will be insulated from all the heat or cold. Not to mention how a few extra plants in the neighborhood can improve the quality of air in no time. All benefits mentioned are the main reasons why there is a growing demand for properties that include these roofs, state real estate experts from Lifull.

Energy Star Windows

Energy efficiency is trending and it can easily be applied to any house. In order to take your home and living to a higher level you should opt for Energy Star products that are approved by the government. Among those products are the Energy Star windows that will ensure high energy preservation and efficiency, plus they will significantly lower your bills. Such windows are better at retaining the heat than the regular ones and they certainly will pay off in the long run. Additionally, they will add value to your home and raise the awareness about our environment.

Conserve Water

The consumption of water is high and conservation of water is one of the biggest trends today. There are various ways to cut down on the water you use on a daily basis, starting from the energy-star-labeled washing machines and dishwashers, to consuming rainwater. You can easily invest into a cistern or rain barrels that will collect rainwater and irrigate your garden. Additionally, you can forget about having a big lush lawn, as it drains the water and increases the bills. Instead, plant native and drought-resistant plants that require little or no maintenance while they make your garden landscape look mesmerizing.

Homes should be built to last, so why not make them sustainable and eco-friendly. Not only will they pay respect to the environment, but they will save you some money while your family will live in comfortable, energy efficient and healthy surroundings.

Image source: www.amitenterpriseshousing.com