Many of us aim to reduce our environmental impact. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful home in the process. Environmentally-friendly building materials are those that are sourced from renewable or recyclable resources. Many of these materials are also highly durable. They also boast great longevity. In other words, sustainable building materials are good for the planet. Especially and your wallet alike.
Here are some wonderful sustainable building materials to consider for your next home project.
Bamboo
The strength, durability, and rapid growth of bamboo make it an excellent sustainable building material. The plant can grow as much as four feet per day. Thereby making it much more renewable than traditional lumber. In fact, bamboo is often used to replace traditional timber products, especially due to its similarity and strength. Similar to wood, bamboo can be stained in numerous finishes. So that’s making it a flexible option for many different styles. So if you have your eye on beautiful hardwood flooring or furniture, think about it. I mean, consider using bamboo instead.
Stone
Stone has also been used for centuries. Especially as a sustainable building material because it is one of the most durable and long-lasting. There are a variety of stone types. That’s from granite to sandstone. In addition, it is now possible to source stone from recycled materials. Recycled quartz countertops or tiles are a great way to get that natural stone look. That’s while feeling good about your budget and environmental impact.
Clay
Clay is another material that has proved to stand the test of time. That’s especially when it comes to roofing. Reclaimed tiles are the most environmentally friendly option. Especially for roofing because they are made from natural materials. For the last a long time. Also, it can be recycled at the end of the day. A roofing contractor can install clay roof tiles on both new constructions also as existing buildings. You might be surprised at how affordable they are. Keep in mind that clay roofing doesn’t have to come in a warm terracotta shade. I mean if that doesn’t match your style. There are all sorts of colors available, from grays to neutral browns.
Slate
Slate, a natural stone, is another material that has been used. I mean for roofing for centuries. It is extremely durable and can last for up to 100 years. Like clay roofing tiles, slate roofing is also recyclable and made of natural materials. It can greatly suit cottage or vintage-style homes.
Adobe Brick
Adobe bricks are made from a mix of sand, clay, and water. So all of these are readily available natural resources. They also use the sun to dry rather than a kiln that consumes resources. They can be used on walls, floors, and even roofing. Moreover, these bricks are made from natural materials. So they are breathable and can help regulate indoor temperatures. This can make them a fantastic choice for hotter climates.
Cordwood
Cordwood is a type of timber that comes from logs that are cut into short lengths, usually around 18 inches long. It can be used in place of traditional lumber. Cordwood is often made from recycled timber, but you may want to ask about this just to be sure you’re supporting a sustainable company. For tasks like structural framing, cordwood can be a great way to utilize recycled materials.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to build or renovate your home, it’s possible you’ve been thinking about your environmental impact. Using sustainable and recyclable materials can not only give you peace of mind, but these materials are often affordable and highly durable as well. Keep these options in mind as you make long-term plans for your future home.
