SUSTAINABLE HOMES BECOMING MAINSTREAM

There is a growing move by homebuyers to invest in 'green' homes where emphasis is on energy efficiency and sustainability.

Eco-friendly building practices and systems including solar power, building materials that reduce carbon footprint, designs that harness the power of the sun, energy-efficient lighting, roof insulation and water tanks to store rainwater are in demand and becoming commonplace.

Energy efficient and eco-friendly practices that are being sought by homebuyers include the following:

Solar Power

Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source with no direct emissions. Solar panels are becoming popular and more affordable with prices coming down as more developers and homeowners install solar as a source of alternative power.

Creative Use of Materials and Resources

Environmental consciousness among buyers means that property developers and builders need to follow practices that reduce carbon footprint, use materials and resources in a responsible manner and sourced locally.

Orientation, Size and Layout of House

At the design stage the orientation, size and layout of the house has an influence on the sustainability of the building as well as its heating requirements in winter and cooling properties in summer.

Energy Efficient Lighting and Appliances

Many people are purchasing Energy Star rated appliances and switching to LED lighting which uses less electricity and the diodes used generally last longer than conventional light bulbs.

Insulation and Double Glazing

Roof insulation is another important energy conserving measure to keep the home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Double glazed windows create better thermal insulation, energy is saved in heating and cooling the house with resultant lower electricity bills. Windows that are double glazed improve insulation by creating a barrier between the home and the environment outside.

Harvesting of Rainwater

The collection of rainwater is important. Instead of allowing rainwater to go to waste, a tank can be installed to collect water which can be used to water the garden.

Surveys conducted internationally have found that homebuyers are increasingly placing high importance on eco features and design as sustainable housing becomes the norm.