Technology, Sustainability - 5 min read
Building eco friendly is no easy feat. However, with these five methods, builders can inspire their clients to embrace environmentally conscious construction.
Building eco friendly can be costly to begin with, however the amount saved on electricity and amenities down the track is worth the investment. Environmentally conscious construction begins with discussions between builder and client to identify eco friendly alternatives that are within budget. Some clients may be reluctant to invest in green materials, others may not even be aware of the quality and financial benefits green materials provide. By educating clients through the proposal stage of construction, making eco friendly suggestions, and providing long term cost-effective solutions, builders can increase sustainable projects for the future.
Technology for builders, like estimating software such as Cubit, assists in the proposal stage of construction. Budgets are set, pricing tables are made, and two-way communication between client and contractor is formed. Further to meeting the requirements and desires of the client in the proposal, suggesting eco friendly techniques can be made easier by adopting construction estimating software. It allows the client to see estimated costs and compare the financial benefits and potential savings that can be made by adopting eco friendly building methods. This information will help during negotiations, clients will better understand the benefits and incentives surrounding eco friendly production including better air quality, energy saving, and of course, associated costs.
There are many alternatives to traditional building materials including sustainable, recycled, and biodegradable substances. There are a growing range of affordable and sustainable building materials on the market, many offering greater strength and durability. Investing in durable materials is the best way to increase the life expectancy of a building. Biodegradable materials are being produced with reduced energy costs, resulting in less pollution. For example, mushroom walls have been designed as a way to grow wall insulation. In the past, traditional insulation and packing materials have tended to be non-biodegradable.
More ways are being discovered to use recycled materials, glass bottles, tires, aluminum cans, and other litter to save money and build creatively.
Organisations such as the Green Building Council of Australia is supported by the Australian Government, and offer rewards to eco friendly builders. A ‘green rating’ system is based on the materials and environmental footprint of your home. A high green rating is desirable when people are looking to buy, or invest in property.
Building small does not necessarily mean less space once the project is complete. A small home is cheaper to run, and design makes it possible to devise the best use of space. The best architects think creatively about space - they consider how the placement of windows can affect how much sunlight and breeze will come through the rooms at certain times of the year. With the right architectural talent and client, eco friendly design can be achieved. It may be difficult to convince clients who are more inclined to build traditionally, however always propose eco friendly design alternatives to your clients so they can consider the benefits.
Builders should encourage clients to install power saving solutions early, rather than later. Geothermal systems are used to heat or cool a home through piping in the walls and underground, saving energy, and costs. Energy saving technology such as geothermal systems and solar power are best installed during the construction process. Solar power panels are most effective when the location and positioning have been considered by professional architects and builders.
Often clients will decide to install solar, or other clean energy features at a later date. It is important to explain why it will be cheaper in the long run, and how it can run more effectively when considered early in the construction process. This is where estimating software will assist in communicating propositions early. Estimating software like Cubit can dramatically reduce wasted materials by providing accurate estimates, and easily integrates takeoff in an all-in-one technology solution.
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