Building green is a great way to protect the environment, save money and improve your health. Plus, it helps you recoup construction costs over time so your home remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Green homes are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons. One major benefit is that they help people reduce their energy bills and minimize their environmental impact.
Energy Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of building a green home is its energy efficiency. A green home uses less energy than standard homes and relies on renewable sources like solar power for power production.
Many green home designs include energy-saving appliances, lighting and heating equipment like heat pumps, efficient plumbing fixtures and water conservation measures. This reduces unnecessary energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and the demand for nonrenewable resources.
Other green design features include thoughtful layouts that maximize energy efficiency and high-quality building materials. For instance, superior exterior wall systems and energy-saving windows are essential elements in this regard.
Longevity
The Advantages of Constructing a Green Home
People seeking to extend their lifespan can reap rewards from building a green home. Not only does this type of construction save money on maintenance and energy expenses, but it also enhances comfort by maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the entire residence.
Over the past several centuries, human average lifespans have significantly increased due to genetics, lifestyle choices and environmental improvements. Nonetheless, we are still far away from reaching our maximum lifespan of 120 years or more.
Genetics only accounts for about 30% of life expectancies; the remainder is determined by lifestyle, attitude and environment. Promoting healthy behaviors and avoiding harmful ones are among the most important steps we can take to increase our lifespans.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Constructing a green home will save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance expenses. This includes energy bills and monthly water bills.
Money saved on home insurance can also come in the form of discounts. Some progressive insurers will reduce your bill up to 10 percent if you use natural building practices to lower energy consumption and costs.
Eco-friendly construction techniques make homes stronger and require fewer repairs, leading to lower ownership costs and increased resale value.
Furthermore, many eco-friendly materials are made to last longer than conventional products, meaning they won’t need replacing as often. Examples of such durable surfaces include durable tile or linoleum for floors, 50-year roofing materials and fiber cement siding.
Increased Property Value
One of the primary advantages to building a green home is its increased property value. Experts estimate that green buildings can add as much as 7% to their market value compared to traditional construction, according to industry sources.
Green buildings also benefit by saving energy costs. Homes equipped with EnergyStar-rated lights, heating/cooling systems, and water-efficient appliances typically consume 20-30% less energy than standard homes depending on their location.
Saving on energy costs can make a considerable impact on your budget. You could potentially save up to 20% on utility bills, which could mean extra cash in your pocket or an increased asking price for your home when it’s time for sale.
