7 Benefits Of Choosing Eco-Friendly Building Materials And Techniques

As concerns about the environment continue to grow, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their impact on the planet. One way to do this is by choosing eco-friendly building materials and techniques. Not only does this benefit the environment, but it can also have numerous benefits for homeowners themselves. Significant benefits of choosing eco-friendly building material and techniques include the following:

1. Lower Energy Costs

One of the most significant benefits of building with eco-friendly materials and techniques is lower energy costs. Eco-friendly materials such as insulated concrete forms (ICFs) and structural insulated panels (SIPs) are designed to provide better insulation and reduce air leakage. This means less energy is needed to heat and cool the home, lowering homeowners’ energy bills. In addition, eco-friendly techniques such as passive solar design and daylighting can also help reduce energy costs. Passive solar design utilizes the sun’s energy to heat the home in the winter and cool it in the summer. At the same time, daylighting uses natural light to reduce the need for artificial lighting.

2. Increased Home Value

Building with eco-friendly materials and techniques can also increase the value of a home. Studies have shown that green homes sell faster and for more money than homes without energy-efficient designs. Potential buyers will appreciate the energy savings and are looking for properties built with eco-friendly options. Buyers are willing to pay extra for a home if they understand it will lead to annual savings in utility costs. 

• A comprehensive, nationwide survey of recent and prospective home buyers in 2020 by the National Association of Home Builders found 57% were willing to pay $5,000 or more, on top of the price of the home, in order to save $1,000 a year in utilities. 
• Freddie Mac’s research found that homes with high energy-efficiency ratings sold for 2.7% more on average compared to homes that did not. 

As more and more homeowners become concerned about the environment, eco-friendly features are becoming increasingly desirable and offer sellers an advantage over homes not built with these sought-after features.

3. Reduced Greenhouse Emissions

Green building practices incorporate a range of energy-efficient features, such as insulation, efficient lighting, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. By choosing these technologies when building or remodeling, homeowners can significantly reduce the energy needed to keep their homes comfortable. While saving on energy costs is enjoyed month after month, these eco-friendly practices also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and will benefit future generations.

4. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Another benefit of building with eco-friendly materials is improved indoor air quality. Traditional building materials such as carpet, paint, and adhesives can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can be harmful to human health. Eco-friendly materials such as low-VOC paint, natural flooring materials, and formaldehyde-free insulation can help reduce these harmful emissions, creating a healthier indoor environment for homeowners.

5. In Demand

A 2022 survey by The National Association of Realtors found that half of agents and brokers surveyed said they helped a client buy or sell a property with green features during the past 12 months, a notable jump compared to 32% in 2021. The survey also had 63% of agents and brokers report that energy efficiency promotion in listings was very or somewhat valuable. 51% half of agents and brokers found that their clients were somewhat or very interested in sustainability. 

6. Reduced Maintenance Costs

Eco-friendly materials and techniques can also help reduce maintenance costs for homeowners. For example, metal roofs are more durable. They require less maintenance than traditional asphalt shingle roofs. Fiber cement siding is more resistant to pests and weather damage than traditional wood siding.

7. Reduced Environmental Impact

As awareness of the importance of sustainability continues to grow, green building practices will likely become increasingly popular and widespread, leading to a more sustainable future. Eco-friendly materials help reduce waste and conserve natural resources. Building with eco-friendly materials and techniques can help reduce the home’s environmental impact, as green buildings aim to reduce waste generated during construction and operation.

Building with eco-friendly materials and techniques has numerous benefits for homeowners and the environment. From lower energy costs to improved indoor air quality, increased home value, reduced maintenance costs, and a reduced environmental impact, there are many reasons why homeowners should consider eco-friendly building options. As the demand for sustainable homes continues to grow, building with eco-friendly materials and techniques may become the norm rather than the exception.

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HomeSource Custom Homes has delivered excellence in custom home building to clients throughout the St. Louis area for over 35 years. We know how to turn a dream home into a reality. Call us at 636-296-0100 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our team builds custom homes throughout the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. We serve clients in St. Louis, St. Charles, St. Francois, Warren, Lincoln, and Jefferson Counties.