Sustainable Construction For The Houses Of The Future
A survey by Home Quality Mark has revealed that over two-thirds of respondents state they consider sustainable features to be of importance when viewing properties.
For a home to be sustainably constructed, it needs to have elements that lower environmental impact, but must also be built to last.
The UK government needs to build 345,000 new homes a year to meet demand, and while new homes need to be built quickly and sustainably, it’s vital that housebuilders must not compromise on quality.
Property developers need to examine new build features and construction methods that both lower the environmental impact of a home while also ensure it has an increased lifespan.
Location can play a major role in the sustainability and durability of a building as the materials and methods used. Climate change has led to flooding being common in the UK over recent years, and housing area drainage now needs to be considered.
Flooding can lead to structural damage, electrical faults, mould, and debris. To mitigate the risk of flood damage, property developers can incorporate specially landscaped natural drainage points, such as ponds and ditches, which also create diverse wildlife habitat.
Tress also reduce flooding by absorbing rainwater and evaporating it back into the atmosphere before it reaches the ground. The roots help infiltrate water into the soil, preventing water runoff. The use of permeable paving materials can also help reduce flooding.
Solar power is a renewable energy source that produced zero carbon emissions, and by incorporating solar panels into new builds during the construction, these components can be bought in bulk, thus saving money, and also be seamlessly fitted into homes, compared to retrofitting at a later date.
Solar energy will also help homeowners save on electricity bills. A typical solar energy system can offset up to 1.6 tonnes of carbon per year, whilst also supplementing between 20 to 30 per cent of the home’s energy needs.
It is also important to consider energy efficiency during construction, and any installed appliances need to have at least an A energy rating, and the use of LED lightbulbs can save up to 90 per cent on the energy demands of traditional lightbulbs.
Energy-efficient doors and windows add to the insulation properties of the home, trapping heat inside, and keeping the cold and rain out.
The building materials used in the construction of a home are the most important factors for the durability of a build. It can be difficult to get the right balance between environmentally friendly materials and ensuring they will be long lasting.
House buyers are looking for homes that have environmentally friendly features, but they also want homes that will last a lifetime and more. Property developers need to find the means to satisfy but sustainability and durability, as well as careful consideration of the home’s location, surroundings, and building materials.
By consciously building with the future of a property and the environment in mind, new homes can be beneficial for all.
