According to Forbes, the average cost of building a modest US home is $300,000 or more.
This figure can go up or down depending on the materials used during the construction process. With such a high cost of manufacture, it helps to know how to cut back on expenses.
One way to save some coin is your choice of brick material used for construction.
Living in Florida often demands the need to regulate indoor air quality and climate.
As the state is synonymous with humidity, you may always need external support like a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to reduce the temperature level.
However, before you plan a cooling system for your home, you should know if it saves energy, brings down costs, and achieves sustainability in the long run.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), space heating constitutes 42% of the energy consumed in an average US home. With fuel prices on the rise and more people…
Windows are a vital component in any residential space. They allow the property’s interior to receive natural light from outside while shielding it from weather elements.
Many homeowners have begun investing in large windows to maximize the amount of light that enters their homes. However, this isn’t the only path to energy-efficient or eco-friendly windows.
As more and more people become conscious of their carbon footprint, they question their consumption and lifestyle choices. Given that we can’t do without the electrical appliances we use, we at least want to ensure that we use eco-friendly models.
One appliance that is commonly in question is ductless heat pumps.
Energy-efficient light bulbs are an excellent way to save money while helping the planet. But, considering the many light bulbs to choose from, how can you tell which ones are energy efficient and which ones aren’t?
Luckily, you don’t have to be a light bulb expert, manufacturer, or know one to check the energy efficiency.
Air gaps in your home can cause a spike in your electricity bill, as your temperature control system will have to work much harder to maintain a comfortable living environment. Luckily, there’s no shortage of ways to prevent this, including caulking.
Florida summers can be hot, muggy, and uncomfortable, and you need a powerful cooling system to get through the days. However, air conditioners are expensive to run, use precious non-renewable fossil fuel, and harm Mother Earth.
A geothermal heat pump can cool buildings just as efficiently as an air conditioner while being more cost-effective in the long run and beneficial for the planet.
Unknown to many people, windows are the most significant source of heat loss and gain in buildings.
Using energy-efficient plastic windows can reduce the amount of solar gain and heat loss, which will also help reduce your utility bills and carbon footprint.
nsulated Concrete Form (ICF) is becoming quite common in the home building industry. This innovative construction material is typically made of polystyrene foam blocks with gaps in between so you can pour a concrete wall.
You can use ICF for underground homes, basements, or entire multi-story houses. Moreover, you can start at the foundation and go all the way up to the roofline.
Energy-saving roofs reflect sunlight and keep the building cool by absorbing less heat. Among the many energy-saving roofs, asphalt shingles are one efficient option to lessen the extra burden on home appliances during hot days.
Whether you’re renovating your new home office, it’s essential that you choose the right paint for the job. You should avoid paints with high levels of volatile organic compounds, especially if you are tackling the interior of your home.
