If you’re building a new home and have decided to prioritize environmental responsibility, you may be worried that it will increase your costs. If you’re smart about your decisions, you can get the green home you want without breaking the bank.
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Keep it Simple
Generally speaking, the more intricate your home layout is, the higher the cost will be. You can save considerable cash by sticking to a simple rectangular layout with minimal roof line changes. This helps with the cost of materials as well as saving on energy consumption in the long run.
Hire an Experienced Green Builder
Look for a contractor who has experience constructing environmentally-friendly buildings. Professionals who have built similar structures will be able to recommend the newest and best materials to use in your space and help guide you in selecting features that save energy and are renewably sourced.
Take Advantage of Incentive Programs
There are many local and national government programs that give money to folks like you who are building with sustainability in mind. Everything from installing solar panels to purchasing energy-saving appliances can make you eligible for a tax break or even a grant. Check with your local government and research national programs to ensure you will comply with their requirements when building.
Choose Your Lot Carefully
Everyone knows that location is key in real estate, but it is especially important when designing your green home. Choosing a location that does not require clearing trees or having rock blasted will keep your costs down while minimizing your impact on the environment. For long-term cost savings, orient the structure in such a way that plenty of sunlight floods rooms to minimize lighting and heating costs.
Select Natural Materials for the House
Although you’re building a new house from the ground up, you may be able to use some quickly renewable products or even recycled materials if you’re willing to get creative. Reclaimed timber is a great way to get the look of beautiful hardwoods without sacrificing any trees in the process. You can also opt for innovations such as using recycled metal for your roof as opposed to asphalt shingles which are made from products that harm the environment. You can also opt for linoleum flooring, which is made from a composite of natural materials, instead of synthetic vinyl flooring.
Use Native Species in Landscaping
Many people forget about landscaping or treat it as an after-thought in the budget. However, if you want to be both financially and environmentally responsible, choose plants, shrubs, and grasses that grow naturally in the environment where you’re building. For instance, if you’re building in an area that is hot with very little rainfall, sodding the front will be expensive and require lots of watering to keep the lawn healthy. It may be better to stick to some decorative shrubs and opt for natural stone instead.
Building a sustainable and affordable home will pay dividends to you financially, and you will have the peace of mind knowing you’re doing your part for the planet.
