The concern over the state of the environment has been growing for decades, as the negative effects of global warming have similarly increased. Fortunately, efforts have been made in all areas to become more eco-sensitive to slow the advance of climate change. This push includes self-imposed and legally mandated changes in the home-building industry to ensure the use of environmentally friendly, energy-conserving products and methods. Custom builders today are able to construct homes that range from carbon-neutral to those that have a low environmental impact, based on the homeowners’ wishes.
But what does it really mean to have an eco-friendly home? This informative article covers the basics:
What’s an eco-friendly home?
Eco-friendly homes are designed to have a limited effect on the environment and to consume green energy in an efficient way. They can also be homes that were not constructed as eco-friendly that have since been modified to achieve a greener status.
These homes harness the power of earth, wind, and light to function with a smaller carbon footprint while reducing the energy that the owner consumes. As mentioned, solar panels are a great way of providing energy, as is using insulation from bamboo and recycled products.
What are the benefits?
There are plenty of benefits to having an eco-friendly home. First and foremost, the owner will save money on their utility bills such as water and electricity. They will also be able to eliminate or at least reduce the amount of household waste produced including water and trash. Overall household expenses decrease and, of course, there are the benefits of being environmentally friendly. Read more at LA Progressive…
On the surface, it may seem that all you’re doing is helping the environment. However, you will benefit from improved air quality and a stable temperature. You can be sure this is a win-win situation.
As you plan for your custom home, incorporate some environmentally friendly features. This could be a completely self-sufficient home. It could also be one that has certain natural features.
Earthships
These homes really take eco-friendly to sky heights with its totally self-sustaining systems and natural sources of energy. These homes are made completely from natural or recycled material and heat the home naturally.
All energy is created from sources such as wind and solar power, with small-scale windmills and solar panels. All food is produced in or around the home and water is harvested naturally from rain or nearby rivers and streams. Read more at Home Stratosphere…
A home like this definitely wouldn’t be right for everyone — or perhaps even most people. But, now that you know what’s possible, you may want to incorporate certain eco-friendly aspects when you’re planning for your new custom home.
Another cool thing about eco-friendly homes is how the designs have evolved over the years. Architects and builders are pushing themselves to create amazing structures in this area of the industry. This post provides a closer look at a few of them:
Caterpillar House
The caterpillar house was designed by Sebastián Irarrázaval using 12 recycled shipping containers. The structure brings together unexpected uses of recreational and community space with some very impressive views. The home is cooled using a passive cooling system, using cold air coming down from the Andes Mountains to avoid the need for air conditioning.
Ecocapsule
The Ecocapsule was designed as an independent alternative to settling down in one place. The design uses solar, wind and rainwater to allow for off-the-grid living from anywhere. You’d have to live without a white picket fence, but something about this idea provokes some serious feelings of wanderlust. You can see how the Ecocapsule works in this video. Read more at The Good Trade…
Whether you’re looking to build an eco-friendly home, something more contemporary, or even more traditional, Oz Custom Home Builders can deliver the house of your dreams. Our skill and attention to detail are unmatched, just like the luxury houses we build. Call us today at (803) 242-0050 to talk about your vision for your new custom home.