Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Energy-Efficient Building Materials


Building an energy-efficient home is a great idea. Most modern buildings are built with the issues of energy efficiency in mind. There is a wide range of energy-efficient building materials available in the market for builders. Let's take a look at some of the efficient building materials you can use. 

Recycled steel

It only takes six scrap cars to build an average house. The steel beams are more efficient than the wooden ones and can be used for specific designs. The other major benefit is that steel is long lasting and can be used in areas that are prone to high winds and earthquakes. 

Insulated concrete forms

Insulated concrete forms have been in the market for more than fifty years and are getting more popular because of their high energy level efficiency. The concrete can be used in building blocks and free standing walls. 

Plant-based polyurethane foam

Plant-based polyurethane is a safe building material made from natural materials such as hemp, kelp and bamboo. It is has high resistance to heat, moisture and offers great protection to pests and mold. It is far much better than polystyrene and fiberglass that have been used for long. 

Straw bales

This is another resilient energy-efficient building material that's been used for many years for making beds and for roofing. Straw bales have great insulation properties and if it is kept free of moisture it can last for a very long time and bond well to plaster.

Cool roof

Cool roofing technology has been in place for quite sometimes. This technology enhances heat dissipation and lowers your home temperature during the hot days. It is also environmental friendly because of its ability to reduce the heat in the atmosphere. They have high ability to reflect the sunlight, leading to heat reduction in your house.

Structural insulated panels

Structural insulated panels are made from a layer of foam insulation sandwiched between cement panels and plywood. One of its major advantage is that it is fire-resistant, making it effective for foundations, floors and basements. There is a wide range of the materials to choose from, but the level of energy efficiency is the same.

Plastic composite lumber

This lumber is made from wood fiber and waste plastic and can last for many years compared to the conventionally treated wood. In addition, it has high resistance to mold and rot. Plus, it's stronger in the cold and more pliable in the heat compared to plastic building materials.

Low e-windows

Low e-windows- also known as high performance windows- are a perfect substitute for regular glass. They help reduce heat during summer and block infrared radiation. They are coated with metal oxide and help keep your house warm during the cold season.

Vacuum insulation panels

These panels are mostly used for commercial refrigeration units and may be used for general home building in the future. They are made of textured silver rectangle that encloses a core panel in an airtight envelope. This means that there is a reduction of heat loss leading to greener homes.

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