As homeowners are becoming more aware of the threats associated with climate change, eco-friendly construction solutions have begun to transform the entire sector. From the use of cutting-edge materials to adopting a decidedly "smart" approach, there are plenty of options to appreciate.

Therefore, let us jump right in by examining ten popular options and the benefits each brings with it.

Eco-Friendly Materials for Homes

Recycled Rubber

The future of eco-friendly homes will rely at least partially on the use of recycled materials. Rubber is a powerful solution in this sense. Not only is this a cost-effective material, but employing it for domestic purposes will help ensure that it does not enter a landfill. Recycled rubber can be used on floors, outdoor tiles, and garden walkways. 

Bamboo

Believe it or not, certain natural materials may help lower a property’s carbon footprint. Bamboo is a prime example in this case, as it is one of the fastest-growing plants in existence. Bamboo is, therefore, a viable alternative when compared to other types of wood that might require years before they can be ecologically harvested.

Mass Timber

There are also specific varieties of man-made wood that can help to reduce the environmental impact of a home. Generally classified as "mass timber" these products permanently bond different types of softwoods that would otherwise serve few purposes. Often used for roofing, floors, and internal beams, a recent study found that hybrid wood could reduce the carbon footprint of a home by up to 26.5 per cent.

Photovoltaics

Solar energy is likewise making its presence felt throughout the home construction sector. Thanks to the efficiency of modern solar panels as well as their relative flexibility, the concept of an off-grid property is now more of a reality than ever before. Photovoltaics are practical solutions; over time, they can yield an impressive return on investment (ROI). For example, solar panels in Ireland tend to pay themselves back in seven years.

Mycelium

Although this is a lesser-known construction material at the moment, it could become a household name shortly. Mycelium is a type of fungus that boasts strength, durability, and resistance to fire when properly dried. This material can be combined and bonded with other waste byproducts, such as sawdust and timber shavings, to create structural components (bricks and foundations are two examples). 

Salvaged Materials

As this blog post highlights, another excellent and cost-effective approach to eco-friendly home design involves the use of reclaimed materials such as recycled metals and repurposed upholsteries. Although sometimes associated with the shabby chic movement, construction firms have also begun to realize the eco-friendly benefits of salvaging. 

Precast Concrete

This type of concrete is extremely desirable thanks to its logistical practicality. As the name suggests, precast concrete is engineered in dedicated facilities before being sent to a construction site. As less energy is required to produce this material, it represents an eco alternative to traditional on-site methods. Precast concrete can also be formed into nearly any shape imaginable. 

Stone

Although this is arguably the most traditional material, it also boasts an environmentally friendly edge (especially when locally sourced). The carbon footprint associated with stone is much smaller when compared to manmade substances such as concrete or wood. Stone is also rather unique in that it can last hundreds of years (if not longer) without requiring any major upgrades or substantial repairs. 

Hempcrete

Hempcrete is yet another sustainable material that has entered the home construction industry. Hempcrete is a combination of lime and other natural materials mixed with the core of a hemp plant. This substance can then be molded into various forms, the most common being bricks and cinder blocks. These blocks are lightweight, breathable, resistant to fire, and environmentally friendly. 

Clay Bricks

While modern innovations have come to define the domestic construction sector, there are still instances when timeless materials can serve a very real purpose. Perhaps the most pertinent example here comes in the form of clay bricks. These bricks are relatively easy to make, they boast a strong compressive strength, and they can often be obtained locally.

Furthermore, clay bricks will not emit any type of toxic compounds if they eventually make their way into a landfill. This is certainly not the case with other materials such as plastic, PVC, and even some types of concrete.

Go Green With Your Home

It is now clear to see that eco-friendly construction is no longer a fictional concept. Similar to many of the other approaches highlighted throughout CADetails, thinking outside of the box is the wave of the future in terms of home design. The good news is that consumers have already begun to appreciate the impact that their property can have on the environment. It is, therefore, much more likely that they will opt for sustainable materials when tackling any type of upcoming project. The notion of "going green" is indeed here to stay.

Author: Emma T

Cover image by Anders Vestergaard Jensen on Unsplash