Green building is a relatively new idea, so there are quite a few misconceptions that keep people from pursuing the development of a green building or home. Don't let these five common rumors prevent you from building your home or commercial property according to green practices.
Learn environmentally-friendly and energy efficient practices for commercial construction in Connecticut.
1. Green Building Is Expensive
Yes, many green materials cost more than more traditional materials, but in the long run, such materials and practices save you money. Using energy efficient appliances and energy efficient heating and cooling systems may require a heftier investment up front, but you should see a return on your investment with lower energy bills. In addition, Lloyd Adler from Planet Green recommends that building a smaller space with an emphasis on efficiency--rather than a larger, less efficient space, can help cut back on costs as well. Smaller spaces are "greener", requiring less energy to heat and maintain. When built right, a smaller space can meet all your needs, with easier upkeep. You can also avoid heftier sustainable costs, by incorporating reclaimed or recycled materials into your project rather than new ones.
2. It's A Fad
Green building isn't just a buzzword. It's about creating sound structures that work with the natural environment, not against it. Green building strives to be healthier for human habitation while releasing fewer pollutants and using fewer fossil fuels. Focusing our attention on renewable resources will help us build a strong, sustainable society that can be around for hundreds or thousands of years from now. Green building is better for the planet and better for posterity. It's not a fad, it's a way of responsibly maintaining our environment and a high quality of life.
3. Traditional Products Work Better
Although traditional products have withstood the test of time, many of the green products available today are tested and perfected. Take low-flow toilets, for example. Although at one time low-flow toilets were less effective than more traditional models, this is no longer the case. Today, low-flow toilets work just as well as the older models without using the same 7 gallons of water per flush, according to Green Building Advisor.
4. Going Green Is Overwhelming
The implementation of sustainable building practices can be done in varying degrees. You can pick how green you want to be, and how deeply your project delves into the lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to start small. Consider including touchless bathroom fixtures or energy efficient lighting. Talk to your contractor as you decide what choices are best for your construction or remodeling project.
5. It Can't Make A Difference
The sustainability movement has come a long way in recent years. At one time, it seemed like saving the environment was a topic limited to grade school classrooms and short articles in the newspaper. Making a single energy-efficient home thirty years ago might have felt like a tiny drop in the bucket, but those days are gone. The green movement has picked up momentum and creating real change. Building a green home or business is now just another way to keep up with this very important movement.
Key Takeaway
Wondering how your commercial construction or residential remodeling project can be more green? With over 20 years of experience in commercial and residential construction and green building, Litchfield Builders can help you emphasize energy efficiency and sustainability in your next project.
To better learn how your business can improve sustainability, download our free guide: Sustainability and Green Building in Commercial Construction.
