Considering building a home this year? The latest advances in residential construction go beyond popular design trends. Homeowners and builders alike are finding new ways to build sustainably, reduce the energy use, and in some cases even create carbon net-zero homes. 

Here’s 3 ways your next home could work for both you and the planet. 

1. Incorporate Carbon-Minimal Construction Materials

A carbon net-zero home starts with sourcing sustainable materials, so consider sourcing the following materials for your next project. 

• Recycled Steel: steel can be recycled multiple times with minimal energy requirement, making it an ideal option for framing and reinforcements. 
• Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT): A mass-produced timber product that also acts as a substitute for concrete. The trees used to create CLT also absorb and store CO2, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere.
• Reclaimed Wood: Repurposing wood from previous construction projects or buildings can give new life to existing timber, and prevent additional carbon emissions normally generated from lumber harvesting. 
• Materials with Thermal Mass: Concrete, brick, and stone are all building materials that absorb heat during the day and release it at night, reducing the need for additional heating and cooling systems. 

2. Focus on Energy-Efficient Design 

Smart design decisions go beyond basic aesthetic choices, the right choices can help create a space that is both beautiful and earth-friendly. 

• Go with the Airflow: An energy-efficient home maximizes airflow via windows, doors, and even the orientation of your home. The right planning and design should maximize the way air moves throughout your space naturally with minimal need for air conditioning. However, true energy efficiency also extends to air-tight building practices, like caulking and weatherstripping used to eliminate drafts. 

• Choose Smart insulation: Investing in high-quality insulation helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm during colder months, an easy step in minimizing your home’s energy use and subsequent carbon emissions. 

• Grow Green: Installing a green roof or wall to grow vegetation is more than just a unique design choice. These green spaces help insulate your home, filter pollution and sequester carbon emissions. 

• Choose Energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances consume less power and reduce overall energy use. LED lighting, smart thermostats, and low-energy HVAC systems are all additional options for reducing your home’s carbon footprint. 

3. Generate Renewable Energy 

Traditional homes require high-energy use and generate a significant carbon footprint. But new technology means your home can actually generate renewable energy and help protect the planet.  

• Solar Power (PV): Perhaps the most well-known way to achieve net-zero energy, photovoltaic (solar) panels generate electricity from the sun. When installed properly, solar panels can often generate 100% of your home’s energy requirements.
• Solar Thermal Systems: The heat from the sun is used to heat water for your home, replacing traditional gas or electric water heaters. 
• Geothermal Energy: These systems utilize the earth’s temperature to heat and cool your home.

Residential construction continues to evolve at a rapid pace, especially when it comes to sustainability initiatives and available technologies. Finding the right professionals can help you navigate building a new home in a rapidly changing industry with minimal stress on you—or your budget. Contact us today for help finding the right architects, contractors, and builders for your next project. 

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