Green homes and energy efficiency are more popular than ever these days, and for good reason. With climate change looming over us all—not to mention spiking utility rates—it just makes sense to be as environmentally conscious as possible. If you’re thinking about buying or building an energy-efficient home in Tooele City, UT, rest assured that you’re making a good decision for your family as well as the planet.
At UpDwell Homes LLC, we understand the importance of energy efficiency. That’s why we use energy-efficient building materials in all of our Tooele City, UT homes. Here are some of the most efficient techniques and materials you can use when building houses.
Efficient materials
- Recycled steel: Steel is the single most recycled material on earth—about two thirds of every ton of steel is made from recycled steel. It also uses less energy and emits less carbon dioxide, making it a very green building material. Plus, it’s incredibly durable—it can even withstand earthquakes.
- Insulating concrete forms: Concrete forms are made by pouring concrete in between two layers of insulating material. Not only does this provide superior insulation, but it’s incredibly durable, as well as mold, rot and mildew resistant.
- Spray foam insulation: Preventing heat transfer is one of the keys to keeping your air conditioning and heating bills low. Spray foam insulation doesn’t produce any toxic emissions, and it has a great R-value, meaning your energy bills will stay low.
- Bamboo plywood: Bamboo is a sustainable wood, which is completely VOC free and is easy to work with. Plus, bamboo is popular because of its aesthetic qualities.
- Plant-based polyurethane foam: If you don’t want to use regular spray foam insulation, plant-based foam is a great alternative. It’s made from hemp, kelp and bamboo, and insulates better than fiberglass and polystyrene.
Efficient building techniques
- Foundation: The better your foundation is insulated (especially if you have a basement), the more efficient your home will be. Use insulated concrete forms for the best effect.
- Walls: Your walls need to be insulated as much as possible to prevent heat transfer. The better you’re able to block heat from entering or escaping your home, the lower your energy bills will be. Try spray foam or plant-based foam insulation.
- Windows and doors: Speaking of insulation, you can even buy insulated front doors. They’re often made with steel sandwiched around insulating materials, which prevents heat transfer. (Avoid sliding glass doors on your patio for more energy savings.) Energy-efficient windows are available, too—they’re often specially coated and insulated with non-reactive gas to prevent heat transfer.
- Interior: When choosing appliances and an HVAC system, look for an energy-efficient model that’s been tested and rated by government institutions. Carpet and engineered wood flooring are great choices to provide additional insulation.
- Roof: Finally, your roof can prevent heat transfer, too. Consider adding a cool roof coating to keep your home comfortable.
To learn more about our energy-efficient building materials and techniques in our Tooele City, UT homes, schedule a viewing with UpDwell Homes LLC today.
