The Sustainable Benefits of New Build Home Design
Contemporary new build homes combine green technologies and details in design.
Green innovations make new homes more sustainable than many other types of buildings, and it’s no secret that eco-credentials are amongst the most important for first-time buyers and investors.
One recent survey found that eight in ten first-time buyers are likely to consider a green home. Almost three quarters of second-time buyers said the same, evidencing a clear demand for sustainable builds.
If you’re thinking of getting your foot on the ladder in 2024, it’s worth knowing about some of the latest eco-friendly features in new homes.
Four sustainable advantages of new build homes
- Enhanced energy efficiency
Improved insulation techniques and modern home heating systems contribute to enhanced energy efficiency in new homes. Older properties are notoriously difficult not only to heat up but to keep warm, in no small part due to poor insulation and single-glazed windows.
Using innovative heating systems and quality insulation, home builders in the UK strive to make new homes more energy efficient. Prospective buyers prefer and seek homes with strong eco-credentials, as this directly influences how much it costs to heat the property.
For commercial and residential landlords, the Government is proposing new regulations that would enforce an Energy Performance Certificate rating of ‘C’ or above by 2025. Buy-to-let investors will prioritise energy-efficient homes if these manifests.
- Renewable power
Increasingly, new builds combine energy-efficient heating systems with power generated by renewable sources. On the commercial market, these include wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, plus biofuels, which can all be adapted to provide power to households.
It’s possible to find new build homes with solar panels, but these technologies can be costly on initial installation. However, household solar power is being encouraged on a national level. In Wales, 55% of all electricity is provided by renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydro.
- Smart home technology
Smart devices and modern energy monitoring systems play an important role in optimising household energy use. While some ‘smart’ features offer more convenience than green credentials, there are certain ways in which automated technologies can help a household become more eco-friendly.
For example, smart meters play an important role in giving homeowners more control over the energy they use. By providing a live commentary on household usage (and spend) for gas and electricity, smart meters allow families to cut back and use energy more economically.
- Sustainable materials
Lastly, in modern home construction, the use of recycled materials makes homes more eco-friendly too. From recycled plasterboard to glass tiles and steel, there are several ways for construction firms to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Integrating features like the BA-FRI Fire-Rated Insulated Access Doors not only enhances safety but also aligns with eco-conscious building practices, further contributing to a greener environment.
Sourcing and producing new materials demands the use of harmful practices, many of which rely on machines powered by crude oil and other fossil fuels. Using natural or recycled materials enables firms to reduce their own carbon footprint and that of new build homes, too.
Overview
From recycled steel to solar panels, there are several techniques being deployed by home builders to make new homes more energy efficient. As stricter EPC standards become the norm, it’s more important than ever for prospective homeowners to buy with sustainability in mind.
