in construction you can do both – save money and help the planet.
As a construction business owner, you are likely seeing more and more requests for green buildings than ever before. That’s because building owners are beginning to see and appreciate green construction for the cost and energy it saves them.
But if you are a seasoned construction professional, then you probably know going green in this industry hasn’t always been easy, mainly because it’s been expensive. However, in recent years due to competition, demand, and new innovations, the costs of materials and certifications have decreased.
Lowered costs means more bids (and jobs) for your company to take on. Whirlwindsteel.com writes, “Due to increased demand and competition, prices have come down to where you can make or get a reasonable bid in comparison to traditional construction.”
Think outside the box
As you know, though, going green doesn’t just mean saving money. In fact, traditionally it refers to helping protect the environment. Well, in construction you can do both – save money and help the planet.
Think outside the box and focus on the little things. You start with an overall thought; a picture of what the building you are creating will look like. But often it’s the little details that really make an impact.
Let’s start with the outside of a building. The roof style you choose can really impact the environment and the wallet. Whirlwindsteel.com explains the difference: “Green building includes a variety of roof styles and colors created to reflect heat and sunlight and keep the building and its surroundings cooler than a conventional roof.” A metal roof also lasts longer than one made of asphalt or shingles so it saves money for the building owner in the long run.
The little details inside the building matter, too. Take window coverings for example. They control the loss of heat and air through the window glass. Not only does that act alone help keep costs low inside the building, but the coverings themselves can be made of sustainable materials.
Lighting design is another area to take into consideration. If done properly, building owners will be able to use more natural light (and save on energy costs) while also limiting heat build-up.
Wall coverings and carpeting help with insulating heat, too. By installing the newer, greener carpeting you help to lower heating and cooling bills. You can also feel confident that the materials you are using have no volatile organic compound emissions.
There’s a lot to consider when you are trying to make your construction company more green, but you’re not alone. Health Product Declarations and Environmental Product Declarations exist to help you find the most effective materials for each part of your building project. Plus, many manufacturers can provide you with Life Cycle Assessments of materials. You’ll know the total environmental impact before making a purchase.
It sounds cliché, but as a successful business that is continuing to grow and build it’s important to do your part for the environment. You and your customers will feel increasingly better about your projects, you’ll save them money, and you will keep your costs low.
