Sustainable building methods are becoming more and more popular every day. More and more business owners and developers are realizing the importance of using sustainable practices when constructing a building. Not only is it important to consider the environment, but these methods can also save you money in the long run!
In this article, we will discuss nine of the most popular sustainable building methods used right now. We will explain why each one is beneficial, and why you should consider it for your next building project.
3D Printed Structures
One of the newest sustainable building methods is definitely unconventional. However, it may prove to lower building costs across the globe for homes and small businesses.
With the help of a 3D printer builders are able to create entire structures, whether it’s a storage shed or a full-blown house. This method is becoming increasingly popular because it produces very little waste. We can create structures using recycled materials. The 3D printing method is extremely versatile and it helps to create virtually any type of structure.
Prefabricated Metal Buildings
Prefabricated metal buildings have been around for a while. However, they are becoming more and more popular as sustainable building methods. This is because we can build metal buildings quickly and easily, without compromising quality.
Additionally, metal buildings are extremely durable and can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. And finally, metal buildings are 100% recyclable, making them one of the most sustainable building materials available. Many businesses avoid prefabricated metal buildings because they think they’re limited to using just a couple of design possibilities. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
To learn more about how you can have a prefabricated metal building customized to suit your specific needs, check out this article on FMP Construction.
Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Synthetic roof underlayment is a sustainable building material that is becoming increasingly popular. This type of underlayment is often made from recycled materials, making it extremely eco-friendly. Synthetic roof underlayment is also very strong and durable, and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Finally, synthetic roof underlayment is much lighter than traditional asphalt-based underlayment, making it easier and cheaper to install. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly roofing option that can save you roofing replacement costs in the long run, synthetic roof underlayment should definitely be at the top of your list.
IoT Integrated Automated Building Systems
The Internet of Things automated building systems is a sustainable building method that is quickly gaining popularity. This type of system uses sensors to collect data about the building, which helps to improve energy efficiency.
Also, these systems helps to control everything from lighting, to temperature, to the security systems —completely remotely. This not only saves energy, but it also makes buildings more secure. IoT automated building systems are still relatively new. However, they have the potential to revolutionize the way we build sustainably.
Green Roofs
Green roofs are another sustainable building method that has been around for a while, but is becoming increasingly popular. They are essentially gardens that are installed on top of a building. They’re lined with material that allows plants like grass, bushes, and flowers to grow.
These rooftop gardens help to insulate the building, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool it. Additionally, green roofs help to reduce stormwater runoff which helps to prevent flooding, and can even improve air quality. If you’re looking for a way to make your building more sustainable, and add some curb appeal at the same time, a green roof is definitely the way to go.
Grid-Hybrid Systems
Grid-hybrid systems are a type of sustainable energy system that combines solar panels and wind turbines with the traditional power grid.
This type of system is becoming increasingly popular because it provides a reliable source of renewable energy. To top things off, grid-hybrid systems help to reduce the demand on the power grid, which can help to lower energy costs for everyone.
Self-healing Concrete
You read that correctly. Self-healing concrete is a sustainable building material that is currently being developed. This type of concrete contains bacteria that remains dormant for up to 200 years.
When a crack occurs and water comes into contact with them, they activate and begin to produce limestone. This helps to repair cracks and other damage without the need for any external repairs. This means that self-healing concrete can last much longer than traditional concrete, without the need for constant repairs.
Additionally, this type of concrete is much more environmentally friendly because it eliminates the need for the production of new concrete to make repairs. Self-healing concrete is still in the early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we build sustainably.
Passive Solar Design
Passive solar design is a sustainable building method that has been around for centuries. This type of design takes advantage of the sun’s energy to heat and cool a building.
In order to do this, passive solar buildings are designed with large south-facing windows that allow the sun’s rays to enter the building. The heat from the sun is then stored in thermal mass, like concrete or stone. This helps to keep the building warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Additionally, passive solar buildings often have high ceilings which help to circulate hot air and improve ventilation. If you’re looking for a sustainable building method that is both effective and efficient, passive solar design should definitely be at the top of your list.
Electrochromic Glass
Electrochromic glass is a type of glass that can be tinted or opaque with the push of a button, or passively with the application of heat —like from the sun.
This makes it an excellent sustainable building material as it helps to control the amount of sunlight that enters a building. This helps to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the building, as well as reducing glare.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the sustainable building methods that are being used right now. As you can see, there are many ways to make your building more sustainable. Whether you’re looking for a way to reduce energy costs, or you want to help the environment, there is definitely a sustainable building method that is right for you.
