More awareness of the need to conserve energy for the good of the planet and how those energy-saving methods and processes can lead to significant cost savings will lead to broader access and reduced costs for the kinds of materials and techniques to operate in the most efficient and cost-saving manners. From how your exterior walls are built to the kinds of light bulbs you put in your lamps, there are many ways to lower energy bills and increase the value of your home.
ICF Construction
Insulating concrete form (ICF) construction is used to create long-lasting, energy-efficient exterior walls that are the foundation of a net-zero building that is designed and built to conserve more energy than it uses. The tight construction design that utilizes concrete slabs and inner insulation to be able to withstand the most extreme weather conditions and use far less energy to power heating and cooling systems. Using ICF in the homebuilding process is among the most environmentally-friendly sustainable construction methods that will increase the property value for resale purposes.
Solar Installations
The efficiency and effectiveness of solar power are only improving. It’s no secret that solar shingles or solar panels have the potential to increase your property value. But what is the long-term ROI of installing these innovative additions? Google’s project sunroof solar calculator estimates the average 20-years savings for an Arizona home to be $9,000. That’s definitely a worthwhile investment if you plan on living in or renting out your new property for a significant amount of time. If you are concerned about the aesthetic downsides of solar, don’t worry — new solar shingles can be applied directly to your roof and give off a modern, luxurious appearance. No matter your budget or requirements, there is a solar option on the market that is perfect for your new home.
Be sure to contact an experienced solar installation professional before moving forward with this innovative way to cut your home energy bills.
Permeable Paving
Permeable paving techniques duplicate the natural process of drainage into the soil. Potentially harmful debris and pollutants are blocked from access to the ground. Water is allowed to infiltrate the pavement and property drain into the ground beneath. With the same strength and durability as concrete or asphalt, permeable paving options create an eco-friendly porous pavement that is good for the environment and will add to the value of your residential or commercial property.
Some benefits of using permeable pavement on your property include:
- Installation procedures are similar to asphalt and concrete surfaces and can hold just about any vehicle.
- At least as durable as concrete, permeable pavement can support large equipment weight and won’t buckle or crack.
- Constructed from eco-friendly recycled materials, permeable paving reduces waste.
- Permeable pavement is cheaper to install and far less labor-intensive than concrete or asphalt installation.
- Grids for permeable paving applications can be easily set up, removed, and used for temporary uses.
- There is no need for an elaborate drainage system to control water with porous permeable paving that allows water to drain through the surface and into the soil.
Solar Shingles
Installing solar shingles on your roof can generate a significant amount of electricity needed for your home. Solar power shingles will pay for themselves over time in the savings you will see in monthly utility bills. With a life span of several decades, solar roof shingles add real value to your property.
- Benefits of installing solar shingles on your roof include:
- Using the sun to create electricity
- Surplus energy can be sold back to your electric company
- Return on investment and significant savings over time
- Lower monthly utility bills
Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
There are many options for the types of windows and doors that will help lower home energy costs and make your home more comfortable throughout the seasons. Windows and doors that are designed and constructed to be energy-efficient can lead to lower energy bills and a boost to the overall property value. What’s more, by using the proper weatherproofing window sealant you can further mitigate the risk of air leaks and create an impenetrable air barrier for your home.
Energy-Saving Light Bulbs
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are replacing traditional incandescent bulbs, which manufacturers stopped making in 2014. LED and CFL bulbs last significantly longer than incandescent bulbs, providing savings on your energy bill in the short- and long-term. Benefits and features of using LED and CFL bulbs include:
- Long lifespan
- Energy efficient
- Eco-friendly
- Durability
- No heat extended
- No emissions
Property owners and builders are constantly looking for ways to save money and with innovative materials that lower home energy bills and increase property value, appealing to potential buyers far more than conventional building methods.
Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Construction and Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.