Do you intend to build a home? Well, one of your concerns should be the energy efficiency of the house. Read the excerpt below to learn how to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Building Materials
Building materials can significantly affect the energy efficiency of your home. For instance, materials such as concrete and wood have a high thermal efficiency, which means the house will not lose heat during cold months or gain heat during warm periods. Besides, you could opt for environmentally friendly materials such as sustainably sourced timber, recycled steel and concrete. People that live in hot areas could install cool roofs that reflect the sun's rays, hence reducing the need for air conditioning.
Building Design
Below are a few ways in which the building design will influence the energy efficiency of your home.
- Large glass doors, skylights, and windows improve the flow of light. Therefore, you will not need artificial lighting during the day.
- If you live in cold areas, the house should face the direction of the sun. It helps keep the house warm.
- Air sealing prevents the loss of heat through the door, windows or roof. It improves the efficiency of the air conditioning system.
- Strategically placed reflective surfaces and appliances could be used to reflect light to poorly illuminated areas.
Insulation
Proper insulation will keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer. Ask a professional to access your home to determine an appropriate insulation R (resistance to heat flow) value. The area's climate, orientation and design of the structure will determine the kind of insulation to use. Typically, reflective insulation is most effective in warm climates, while bulk insulation can be used in both warm and cold climates. Spray insulation is considered most effective and has a higher R-value as compared to other types of insulation. Insulation should be installed in the roof, floor and walls. Purchase the insulation material from a reputable company that provides at least a ten-year guarantee. Consider double-glazed windows and doors to improve the insulation of your home.
Power
Consider renewable energy sources such as solar or wind to power your home. Other than being environmentally friendly, solar power is much cheaper than electric power in the long run. Besides, you could sell excess power to the national grid.
Remember to observe environmentally friendly building practices. For example, you could ask the contractor to use electric machines instead of diesel-powered equipment that pollutes the environment.
Improve the energy efficiency of your home by using environmentally friendly building materials, using an energy-efficient building design and installing insulation and renewable power.
To learn more about energy-efficient home design strategies, contact home builders in your area.
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