6 Eco-Friendly Building Materials to Consider in Your Next Build
Did you know that Australia has one of the highest per capita emissions of greenhouse gas in the world and that construction, operation and maintenance of building environments are responsible for almost 25 percent of that?
That’s why building an eco-friendly home makes so much sense. Not only will your new abode boast a stunning, natural look, it will have less of an impact on the environment – both to build and to operate. One of the biggest advantages of eco-friendly home builds is the potential for significant energy savings. By opting for energy-efficient materials, windows, and insulation, you can cut down on energy use and see a noticeable reduction in your monthly utility bills.
We are very proud of our award-winning custom build, Cliff. This clifftop oasis in Scarborough boasts jaw-dropping ocean views from its lofty position, its meticulous design and contemporary minimalism perfectly balanced to make the most of the surrounding panoramas – without trying to steal the spotlight. A heavy focus has been placed on using natural materials to reflect the build’s environment; natural timbers, recycled iron, glass and concrete.
The good news is that in 2024, there are an array of materials that make building an eco-friendly home both easy and affordable. Keep reading to discover six materials that we recommend using in your next build.
1. Reclaimed Timber
Using reclaimed timber is one of the most environmentally responsible ways to build a home, as it can be used for walls, cabinetry, decks, floors, beams, panels and other structures.
As with recycled metal, reclaiming timber significantly reduces the amount of energy that’s used to make it. It also stores carbon and lowers the demand for fresh timber from forests.
If opting to use reclaimed timber, it’s important to ensure that it has been treated properly, with the integrity of each piece carefully assessed and chosen for an appropriate project.
For our award-winning Cliff project, we wanted to make a remarkable first impression with a stunning exterior design. The design features Silvertop Ash cladding from Victoria, enhanced by polished and unpolished concrete.
We opted for Silvertop Ash cladding as it sits at a Class 3 in durability – it’s moderately resistant to decay when fully exposed to the weather. As Cliff sits on a clifftop by the ocean, the team at Tass knew we needed a high-quality cladding that can withstand coastal conditions.
2. Recycled Steel
Builders rely heavily on metals such as aluminium and steel, which are durable, lightweight and versatile. There is of course an environmental downfall to this, being the amount of energy that goes into mining and manufacturing the metal.
Recycled steel doesn't lose its properties when recycled, so you can rest assured it will remain strong and durable while being a massive saver in energy costs.
Steel is also the most recycled material in the world, with more steel recycled each year than plastic, paper, aluminium and glass combined – so you’ll have no issue sourcing it for your upcoming build.
Entering the award-winning Cliff project’s statement iron front door, evidence of recycled steel and metal adds an industrial edge to the coastal design. The new build showcases spectacular features including a showstopping, industrial metal walkway connecting the upstairs main bedroom to the hallway, plus brushed copper hardware features throughout the wet areas.
3. Bamboo
Bamboo is considered one of the most eco-friendly building materials on the market. With a long history of use in construction, this lightweight, durable and renewable building material can be used for scaffolding, bridges, flooring, structural components and cabinetry.
4. Wool
While many of us associate wool with cozy warm blankets and sweaters, it also doubles as an outstanding home insulator – with its fibres forming millions of tiny air pockets that trap air.
Wool insulates the home just as well as conventional insulation and requires less energy to manufacture. It doesn’t degrade nearly as quickly as other insulation materials like straw and compared to some natural insulators such as cotton, wool is more prevalent, can be harvested more easily, and regenerates quickly.
5. Mud Brick
Made from earth, water and straw, mud brick is a natural, inexpensive, fire-resistant building material that serves as an effective insulator.
With plentiful supply across the country, mud brick is suitable for use in all parts of Australia and offers an appealing rustic finish. Additionally, the only sealing it requires is from moisture.
6. Energy Efficient Windows
Opting for sustainable window options is a great way to achieve an eco-friendly design. Choosing energy-efficient windows is a smart move for both the environment and your wallet. By keeping your heated or cooled air inside and blocking drafts, these windows enhance sustainability and contribute to significant energy savings, which means you’ll be reaching less and less for the heater or air conditioner – saving on your energy bills.
Heka Hood's products were instrumental in providing the essential extra protection for the sea-facing windows in our acclaimed Cliff project. The floor-to-ceiling windows not only help maintain a comfortable temperature within the home, but our clients can enjoy stunning views of Scarborough’s coastline.
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Are you looking to work with a builder who can build you an eco-friendly home? Get in touch with the team at Tass Construction Group today.