Green means clean! More than ever, businesses are turning to eco-friendly building materials for their numerous benefits. Eco-friendly construction is the use of both materials and processes that are healthy for the environment and use resources in an efficient manner. Turning to these types of materials offers environmental, economic and even social advantages over traditional building materials. Continue reading as we dive into the 7 benefits of using eco-friendly building materials:
1. Cost-Effective
When eco-friendly building materials first burst onto the scene, there was a common misconception that these options were costly. In reality, using these materials is a cost-effective option, particularly in the long run! Green buildings use resources like water and energy in a much more efficient manner than those built traditionally. Because of this, these buildings require less power, so you can cut down on many of your utility costs, meaning more money in your pocket. Some business owners report using these materials helps them save up to a third on their water and energy bills.
2. Energy Efficient
With the population steadily growing, it’s more important than ever to use our resources efficiently. We can reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources by using these sustainable eco-friendly building materials. Not only does this help you save, as mentioned earlier, but it also helps our environment as a whole. A significant number of resources go into every construction project, from the production of materials to the energy required to maintain the building. Using these materials is a great way to ensure you’re more efficiently using both energy and resources.
3. Built to Last
Another advantage of using green materials is that they’re sustainable, meaning your construction project is built to last a lifetime! These sustainable materials are designed to last without compromising the future. When your project is built from materials that are durable, you’re less likely to have to replace them, ultimately saving you money and a massive headache down the road. The last thing you want to have to do is to shut down your business in order to renovate or construct another new building, which costs you both money and time.
4. Low Maintenance
Because eco-friendly building materials are durable, they require less maintenance than buildings made with more traditional materials. Operating and maintenance costs can account for up to 80% of the lifetime costs associated with a building. By cutting down on maintenance costs, you can save a significant amount of money that can be used in other areas to support your business. While the costs to construct an eco-friendly building may be slightly higher than traditional methods, over time you’ll actually save due to much lower maintenance costs.
5. Reduction of Waste
When it comes to construction projects, waste management is key. By using eco-friendly building materials, you can significantly cut down on the amount of waste generated by your project. It costs money to dispose of waste during construction, so the less there is, the lesser the costs associated with it. Years down the road, you’ll generate less waste by not needing to replace these durable materials. Many sustainable building materials are made from recycled or renewable resources, further cutting down on waste.
6. Reduction of Carbon Footprint
The construction industry as a whole can significantly impact the environment. So, it’s important to do what we can to help protect the environment, leaving it in good condition for our children and grandchildren to enjoy. Eco-friendly materials can reduce our environmental carbon footprint by cutting down on carbon emissions and conserving our limited natural resources. Everything from the production of construction materials to the disposal of waste impacts our environment in one form or another.
7. Improves Indoor Environment Quality
The quality of the indoor environment of your building relies heavily on the conditions inside and their impact on its occupants. You want a quality indoor environment that protects the health of those inside, improves quality of life and even helps to reduce stress. Using sustainable materials can help to improve the air quality inside. Some traditional building materials contain harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that when released into the air can cause health problems for some. Many sustainable materials are free of these VOCs.
Kirby Building Systems: An Eco-Friendly Option
Horner Building Company is an authorized builder and distributor of Kirby Building Systems. KBS is an industry leader in the manufacturing of high-quality and custom-engineered metal building systems for use in many types of construction industries, including commercial projects.
These building systems are both energy-efficient and LEED certified, making it a great option for those wanting to go green! These buildings can include a number of different energy efficient insulation systems, including cool-coated metal panels and low profile rooflines that help to reduce energy costs. Additionally, you’ll earn LEED points when you utilize Kirby Building Systems.
Go green and reap these benefits of using eco-friendly building materials! Before you get ready to start your green project, learn about some valuable cost-effective strategies for commercial construction projects!
