8 Sustainable Materials, Technologies, and Building Practices for New Construction Homes

Eco-friendly building materials and technologies have an incredible list of benefits. Purposefully adding sustainable building materials during the construction phase increases long-term return on investment and improves the quality of life. If you’re a homeowner who will soon be working with a contractor to build your new home, these eight sustainable materials and technologies can be valuable additions. Proactive climate action in sustainable building practices is essential for achieving environmental goals and reducing your overall costs of home ownership.

Reclaimed Wood: Combatting Deforestation

Reclaimed wood is wood previously used in a different structure. It comes from homes or buildings that are being torn down or from old furniture pieces. While you could plant trees to offset the impact, those trees take time to grow and energy to harvest. Reusing already chopped-down trees instead of raw materials preserves our vital existing forests. In this way, opting for recycled wood reduces the environmental impact of new construction. Additionally, using reclaimed wood helps lower deforestation by reducing the need for new wood.

People prize reclaimed wood as a building material for many reasons. It is often marked with holes and stains from its previous life. While these imperfections can be sanded down or filled in, many homeowners keep the boards as is because of their authentic character. The wear and patina in the flooring, ceilings, or furniture adds character to a home’s living spaces.

Some homeowners prefer reclaimed wood because some antique wood is no longer readily available as a building material. Among these are some cherry, elm, and walnut wood. Others like the story they can tell about their home–”These beams came from an old barn down the road,” or, “This floor was from a 19th century home.”

One thing is sure: reclaimed wood can increase a home’s resale value.

Bamboo

Bamboo looks and performs much like hardwood. It is a sustainable alternative to wood because it is faster-growing than materials like oak or walnut. Whereas a tree can take about 20 years to reach maturity for harvest, bamboo is ready in about six years, and many say it is harvestable by five years. Bamboo can grow up to 1.5 inches or 3.8 centimeters a day. As a raw material, it’s relatively affordable and easy to maintain. Plus, premium types of bamboo are very durable and long-lasting.

When purchasing bamboo for a new construction home, choose good quality bamboo from reputable dealers. Some types of bamboo, such as engineered bamboo flooring, are not long-lasting or durable. If you have to replace it earlier, you lose the sustainability benefits.

Something else to keep an eye on: researchers and engineers are exploring bamboo lumber as an eco friendly building material. Early uses of laminated bamboo lumber in residential building found it cut energy consumption compared to similar reinforced concrete buildings. They could also be better insulators in cold climates. It’s possible this material could be a pathway to more energy-efficient buildings. Additionally, bamboo’s excellent strength-to-weight ratio makes it advantageous for reducing construction emissions and enhancing transport efficiency.

Cork

Cork is a viable option for eco-conscious homeowners and sustainable home builders. Harvested from cork oak trees primarily in Portugal and Spain, this renewable resource doesn’t require cutting the tree down, making it highly sustainable because it regenerates after harvesting.

The material is a great insulator thanks to its unique air cushion design. Around 50% of its cell volume consists of air. This makes it one of the best materials in the world for thermal insulation.

Common applications of cork in new home construction include insulation and flooring. While homes using cork insulation may face slightly higher insurance rates, the environmental benefits and superior insulation properties make it a worthwhile investment. Proper installation of cork is crucial for ensuring safety and sustainability.

Cordwood Construction

Cordwood is a unique and eco-friendly approach to sustainable home construction. For centuries, it has been used to craft cozy, cottage-like homes. They’re like log homes but built in smaller pieces. This method involves using 40 to 60 percent wood chopped into uniform logs, and the remaining material is a mortar mix.

Cordwood homes have a low construction cost and are amazingly energy-efficient houses. They keep interiors warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The technique utilizes wood that might otherwise be wasted, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

Recycled Steel: A Sustainable Building Material

Recycled steel is a cornerstone in eco-friendly construction, being one of the most commonly recycled materials in the industry. Its high recyclability makes it a sustainable building material, significantly reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with steel production. In addition to its environmental benefits, recycled steel offers strength and durability, making it a preferred choice in the construction industry.

Hempcrete: The Carbon-Negative Building Material Reducing Carbon Emissions

Hempcrete is a remarkable sustainable building material that boasts a negative carbon footprint. It absorbs more CO2 than is emitted during its production, making it an eco-friendly option for construction. Made from the hemp plant, a fast-growing and renewable resource, hempcrete not only contributes to reducing carbon emissions but also offers excellent insulation properties, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings. Hempcrete is composed of hemp fibers and lime.

Clay Bricks: Energy Efficiency and Temperature Control

Clay bricks are a traditional yet innovative building material known for their energy efficiency. They help control indoor temperatures by providing thermal mass, which absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night. This natural temperature regulation reduces the need for artificial heating and cooling, leading to lower energy consumption and a reduced carbon footprint.

Mycelium: Nature’s Resilient Building Material

Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is gaining recognition in the construction industry for its water, mold, and fire-resistant properties. This natural material grows quickly and requires minimal resources, making it an eco-friendly alternative to conventional building materials. Mycelium’s unique properties provide durability and safety, contributing to the resilience of eco-friendly buildings. However, mycelium is still largely in the experimental phase of development.

Ferrock: Pollution-Reducing Construction Material

Ferrock is an innovative building material that not only binds CO2 but also helps reduce pollution. Made from recycled materials, including steel dust, Ferrock absorbs carbon dioxide during its curing process, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. Its strength and durability, combined with its environmental benefits, make Ferrock a promising material for sustainable construction. It is stronger than Portland cement. However, the presence of silica in ferrock raises concerns, highlighting the need for safer alternatives to enhance worker safety.

Rammed Earth: Durable and Eco-Friendly Construction

Rammed earth is a time-tested construction method that uses compacted earth, clay, and sand to create durable walls. Rammed earth construction involves using damp earth compacted into walls. This technique is environmentally friendly, as it utilizes abundant natural resources and requires minimal processing. Rammed earth walls offer excellent thermal mass, providing natural insulation and reducing the need for artificial climate control.

Straw Bale Construction: High Insulation and Low Impact

Straw bale construction is an eco-friendly building technique that uses compacted straw to create walls with high insulation performance. This method reduces environmental impact by utilizing agricultural waste and minimizing the need for conventional insulation materials. Straw bale buildings offer superior energy efficiency, leading to lower energy costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

Energy-Efficient Insulation Materials

Energy-efficient insulation materials are crucial in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in buildings. These materials help to minimize heat transfer, reduce energy losses, and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Some popular energy-efficient insulation materials include:

• Fiberglass Batts: Made from recycled glass, fiberglass batts are a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for insulation. They are widely used due to their affordability and effectiveness in reducing energy consumption.

• Cellulose Insulation: Composed of recycled paper products, cellulose insulation is a sustainable and energy-efficient option. It provides excellent thermal resistance and is treated to be fire-resistant, making it a safe and eco-friendly choice.

• Spray Foam Insulation: Created from a mixture of isocyanate and polyol, spray foam insulation is highly effective in sealing gaps and reducing energy losses. It expands to fill spaces, providing superior insulation and energy efficiency.

• Radiant Barrier Insulation: Made from reflective materials, radiant barrier insulation helps to reflect heat rather than absorb it. This reduces energy losses and keeps homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, enhancing overall energy efficiency.

By choosing the right energy-efficient insulation materials, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Solar Panels

More homeowners are interested in tapping into renewable energy sources. Solar panels harvest direct sunlight to reduce a homeowner’s dependency on the electrical grid, energy bills, and overall carbon footprint. They work best homes that have optimized their energy usage, like using all LED lights and Energy Star appliances.

Installing solar panels or solar tiles can be expensive. A standard system can cost thousands of dollars. Tax rebates and new solar loan programs make them more affordable. Additionally, the monthly energy savings generated over time help the solar panels pay for themselves.

On the upside, solar panels reduce the home’s energy costs and the negative impacts of coal and nuclear power energy. Renewable energy for power works best in homes that have reduced their energy consumption.

Green Insulation

Managing a home’s heat loss is critical to creating an energy-efficient home. That’s why picking the proper insulation for a new construction home matters. Having the right insulation levels and materials improves a home’s energy efficiency.

Standard home insulation is made from synthetic materials like fiberglass batts or foam insulation. Green insulation is made from many materials, including recycled denim and sheep’s wool.

Essentially, it takes natural materials and repurposes them to keep homes warm or cool. One reason home buyers might explore green insulation over other materials is that it can be as effective when it comes to thermal resistance. As organic materials, they have fewer toxic chemicals in their production that can bump indoor air pollution. Apply them to exterior walls, attics, or interior spaces.

Perhaps you’ve heard about foam insulation’s benefits in boosting energy savings. The chemicals used in most spray foam products are not considered an eco-friendly building material, but there is Plant-Based Polyurethane Rigid Foam. Its thermal resistance is even better than fiberglass.

However, acquiring green insulation is not as easy as standard insulation. Homeowners interested in this should check local building codes. You’ll also want to check the thermal insulation properties of the chosen green insulation product to ensure it’s right for the local environment. The materials have different rates of energy loss that may matter in colder climates.

Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures

Low-flow water fixtures help conserve water and save money on water utilities. These fixtures include shower heads, sink faucets, bathtub faucets, and toilets. In fact, toilets are a perfect example of how plumbing fixtures have changed over the years. In the 1950s, toilets used as much as seven gallons of water per flush. Today, they can use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush, a major improvement in water conservation.

Smart, Energy-Efficient Appliances

Smart, energy-efficient appliances do more than use energy wisely. They save on cooling and heating costs and energy by using only as much energy needed to keep the house comfortable and functioning well. They can be adapted to homeowner preferences to create a more energy-efficient home.

One such upgrade is adaptable thermostats that “learn” a homeowner’s preferences. The smart thermostat automatically changes the air conditioning throughout the day according to those preferences.

Sustainable Building Methods

Sustainable building methods are designed to minimize the environmental impact of building construction and operation. These methods include:

• Green Building: This holistic approach to building design and construction prioritizes environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Green building practices include using sustainable materials, optimizing energy use, and reducing waste.

• Passive House Design: This building design approach focuses on energy efficiency and minimizing energy losses through advanced insulation and airtight construction. Passive houses maintain a comfortable indoor climate with minimal energy use, making them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

• Net-Zero Energy Building: A net-zero energy building aims to produce as much energy as it consumes through on-site renewable energy systems. This approach reduces reliance on external energy sources and minimizes carbon emissions.

• Biophilic Design: Incorporating natural elements and materials, biophilic design promotes occupant health and well-being. This approach connects people with nature, enhancing the living environment and contributing to overall sustainability.

By adopting these sustainable building methods, homeowners and builders can create energy-efficient, environmentally friendly homes that contribute to a healthier planet.

Challenges and Future of Sustainable Building

Despite the growing demand for sustainable building, several challenges need to be addressed:

• Higher Upfront Costs: Sustainable building materials and methods can be more expensive than traditional options, posing a financial barrier for some homeowners and builders.

• Lack of Awareness: Many builders and homeowners are not aware of the benefits and options available for sustainable building, limiting the adoption of these practices.

• Regulatory Barriers: Existing building codes and regulations can create obstacles to the adoption of sustainable building methods, requiring updates to support eco-friendly practices.

• Scalability: Sustainable building methods and materials need to be scalable to meet the growing demand for sustainable construction.

However, the future of sustainable building looks promising, with advances in technology and materials science driving innovation and adoption. Emerging trends include:

• Building Information Modeling (BIM): This digital modeling approach enables architects, engineers, and builders to design and construct buildings more efficiently and sustainably.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI can optimize building design and operation, reducing energy consumption and improving occupant comfort.

• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT sensors and devices can monitor and control building systems, optimizing energy efficiency and reducing waste.

These innovations are paving the way for a more sustainable future in the construction industry.

Overcoming Obstacles and Emerging Trends

To overcome the obstacles to sustainable building, it is essential to:

• Educate Builders and Homeowners: Increasing awareness about the benefits and options available for sustainable building is crucial. Educational programs and resources can help bridge the knowledge gap.

• Develop and Promote Sustainable Building Codes: Updating building codes and regulations to support sustainable practices can facilitate the adoption of eco-friendly building methods.

• Invest in Research and Development: Investing in research and development can drive innovation, reduce costs, and make sustainable building materials and methods more accessible.

• Encourage Collaboration and Knowledge-Sharing: Collaboration among architects, engineers, builders, and manufacturers can promote the exchange of ideas and best practices, advancing sustainable building.

Emerging trends in sustainable building include:

• Circular Economy: This approach prioritizes the reuse and recycling of materials, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

• Biomimicry: Drawing inspiration from nature, biomimicry creates sustainable and efficient building systems that mimic natural processes.

• Resilient Design: This approach prioritizes resilience and adaptability in the face of climate change and natural disasters, ensuring buildings can withstand environmental challenges.

• Healthy Building: Focusing on occupant health and well-being, healthy building design uses natural materials and ventilation systems to create a healthier living environment.

By addressing these obstacles and embracing emerging trends, the construction industry can lead the way in sustainable building practices, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

Benefits of Using Recycled Materials in Construction

Incorporating recycled materials into construction projects offers a multitude of benefits, both for the environment and the construction industry. One of the primary advantages is the reduction of waste in our ecosystems. Using recycled plastic in construction helps decrease the volume of waste clogging waterways and landfills. Given that recycled plastic often has a low recycling rate, its reuse is vital for promoting a circular economy, where materials are continuously repurposed rather than discarded. Additionally, recycled materials can be used in other products, reducing carbon footprints and reliance on non-renewable resources.

Recycled glass is another sustainable building material that can replace natural aggregates such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone. This substitution not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the environmental impact associated with mining and processing these raw materials.

Recycled or reclaimed wood is particularly beneficial for maintaining biodiversity. By minimizing the need to harvest new trees, it helps preserve forests and the diverse ecosystems they support. This practice ensures that fewer trees are cut down, allowing natural habitats to thrive and contributing to a healthier planet.

Recycled rubber is an innovative eco-friendly building material that can be transformed into a variety of outdoor surfaces, such as playgrounds, sports fields, and landscaping mulch. By repurposing discarded materials like tires, recycled rubber not only reduces landfill waste but also offers a durable and slip-resistant surface, ideal for outdoor applications. Meanwhile, AshCrete serves as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional concrete. Made from fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, AshCrete helps reduce carbon emissions and the consumption of natural resources. Its use in construction projects contributes to sustainable building practices by minimizing the reliance on non-renewable resources and offering a sustainable alternative to conventional building materials.

Overall, the use of recycled materials in construction is a sustainable alternative that aligns with eco-friendly building practices. It supports the reduction of carbon emissions, conserves natural resources, and fosters a greener future for the construction industry.

Work With an Experienced Sustainable Home Builder

Building an eco-friendly home with sustainable fixtures and interior features is not like building a mainstream house. Find a builder who understands your goals in this green building project. You want someone who has used these sustainable building materials in the past and can work with them skillfully. Some require specific construction techniques to apply correctly. Ways to check:

• Ask the builder about their experience working with eco-friendly building materials and how they are reducing their environmental impact.

• Look at their portfolio to see if sustainability is one of their values.

The more a builder can talk about how they have worked with sustainable house materials in the past, the easier it will be to evaluate whether that builder is right for you.