WORK WITH THE LAND
choices you make affect the pricing? Is there an emphasis placed on sustainable materials and materials with low level toxin emissions? Sit down with your builder and discuss green options for your build.
So if you’re planning to build a new home, here are some green home building ideas you may want to consider:
If you design your home to take advantage of the surrounding landscape from the outset, you can design the build to be as efficient as possible. Work with your builder to determine the best placement for your home to take advantage of natural light, shade opportunities and natural protection from the elements.
SUSTAINABLE MODULAR
Some methods of construction have inherently sustainable characteristics. Many modular or prefab homes can be classified as sustainable not just because of their energy efficiency and the materials used, but also because the process of building the home’s elements in a controlled setting produces many material and labor savings and can decrease waste. Modular homes have become increasingly popular and are considered an accepted form of green home construction.
MAKE GOOD CHOICES
There are choices to be made around everything from insulation to windows and doors, and the choices you make will have a long term impact on your energy costs. While materials like triple-pane windows cost more at the outset, in the long run they’ll greatly improve energy efficiency, plus they offer the added advantage of dampening noise.
SIZE MATTERS
A smaller home with energy-efficient and eco-friendly construction techniques will have a smaller environmental impact. Be thoughtful about how you use your space when planning and building your home. Design your home around your lifestyle, and keep the space manageable and cost effective. Think of square footage as an investment; put it where you want it most instead of expanding in every direction.
DETAILS & FINISHES
Darren MacKenzie Master Builder/Owner MacKenzie Builder Services Ltd.
Look for green options when choosing the details and finishes. Bamboo flooring, LED lighting, and recycled building materials are all sustainable choices for a green build.
THE RIGHT BUILDER
MacKenzie Builder Services Ltd. 262 Howe Point Road, Eglington 902.687.1508 C: 902.969.0425 E: darren@mackenziebuilders.ca www.mackenziebuilders.ca
GO SOLAR
It’s important that the builder you select is passionate about creating healthy, eco-friendly homes. Ask for references from other green home building projects the builder has worked on. Inquire about any certifications they may have. It’s also important to be on the same page as to what your goals are in going green. Are you concerned about reducing construction waste? How will the green
The sun is the ultimate source of clean, low-cost energy. When you build, you have a unique opportunity to plan for solar power and by making solar power native technology in your new home, you can take advantage of light, positioning and geography to get the most efficiency and energy for your investment.
SPRING 2020 www.pei-living.ca
107
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker