Is building eco really more cost effective?
ATSPACE
We all know that building sustainably is good for the environment, but is it as cost effective as we’re made to believe?
Energy efficient builds are designed to be better for the environment. The construction industry contribute a whopping 27 per cent of all greenhouse gases, that’s an incredible amount.
So whatever side of the fence you sit on, most of us will agree that this figure needs to be lowered. We all need to live, we all have basic needs and these aren’t going to change, so we need to change how much energy we use while still being able to live.
Energy efficient homes will have features such as solar energy, water collection units, renewable energy sources, an air tight structure, excellent controlled ventilation, among many other aspects.
This is exactly why these types of structures will cost more to build. In order to get it right from the start, you’re going to need help, especially if this is your first time at building eco. There are many reputable companies out there who can guide you as much or as little as you’d like. Money is well spent on good products and expertise, so yes, this will cost more initially, but you will have many more years of lower energy bills to recoup your initial costs, not forgetting how you’re reducing your environmental impact!
Employing an energy assessor at the earliest possible stage will help ensure your build is as energy efficient as possible. They will not only help design your home along with your architect, but they’ll also show you how to achieve the best results! If there are weak spots, your assessor can point them out and show you how to improve or fix them. You could easily save between £200 - £500 plus a year on energy bills, depending on how energy efficient your build is.
Building energy efficient doesn’t just mean installing eco products. You need to consider where your materials are coming from, as well as if they’re renewable sources. For example, if you’re planning on using timber, where will you source this timber? Will it have a long route to travel? Is there somewhere closer? Can you potentially use reclaimed materials? Depending on how far you’re planning to go with the eco build, it will depend on what you’re going to have to consider for your build.
What are the advantages of building an energy efficient eco home?
- You’ll get better, healthier air quality for occupants.
- Lower energy bills
- A great, future ready design, which should require less maintenance
- You will reduce pressure on local resources
- You will add value to your build
Can you build eco on a budget?
This is a tricky question, as there are different levels, so yes and no. Yes, you can build a basic energy efficient home on a budget. If you talk to your architect and energy assessor, you can discuss budgets. You can consider basics, such as who your energy supplier is, getting a more efficient boiler, using a smart meter so you know exactly what you’re spending.
Ensuring you have an airtight structure is a huge plus for building eco too, this is actually fundamental when considering an eco-home. Again, this is something your assessor can speak to you about.
There are some amazing energy efficient homes already built in the UK, and over the world. These show us that yes, this type of home is worth every penny, and if you’re in it for the long-haul, you will recoup any extra costs you might have incurred.
So, when you’re considering whether it’s right for you, it's a no brainer. There are many good points to having an energy efficient home, more than which can be written here. Find a reputable company who can talk to you about the pros and cons, but remember, this isn’t just about your future, but it’s also about the future of generations to come.
