8 Examples of Modern Building Materials for Increased Energy-Efficiency

8 Examples of Modern Building Materials for Increased Energy-Efficiency

Energy-efficient building techniques aim to reduce energy waste and maintain optimum comfort levels inside the structure. Modern architecture and design methods used for building homes today focus on using a variety of materials aside from traditional brick and mortar. Home builders today can choose from a range of environment-friendly building materials and techniques which are not only durable but also economical.

1. Structural insulated panels

A SIP comprises of a foam layer for insulation sandwiched between two panels of cement or plywood. SIP UK suppliers provide materials suited for constructing homes, renovations, and extensions for different areas of a home or building, including floors, walls, and roofs. SIPs are not only energy-efficient but are also fireproof. Many people are not familiar with using SIPs for construction. If you are planning on using SIPs on your next construction project, consult a qualified builder who has experience working with this type of material.

2. Reclaimed or recycled steel

If you build a house using wood, you’ll need to use 50 trees on average. But with reclaimed and recycled steel, you only need about six scrap vehicles to do the same. In modern architecture and design, you can use steel beams for roofs and ceilings. Steel beams are highly durable and practical for areas where there are high winds or frequent earthquakes.

3. Polyurethane foam made from plant material

Insulation made from natural materials is a new trend in building. In the past, it was common to use polyurethane foam which is a synthetic material. These days, you can make polyurethane foam from biodegradable compounds such as hemp and bamboo. Natural foam insulation is highly resistant to moisture and mould, and also protects the structure from pest infestation.

4. Composite lumber from plastic

Another eco-friendly building material used today is lumber made from recycled plastic mixed with wood fibre. Compared with treated wood, plastic composite lumber is not susceptible to mould, and it does not rot. Another advantage of composite lumber is its rigidity when exposed to cold climates and natural flexibility when subjected to heat.

5. Straw bale

This may sound like an old building material, but it is still used today in many areas as insulation. The most notable characteristic of straw is its natural insulation property and ability to bond well with building renders and plaster.

6. Cool roofing

What cool roofing does is to reflect heat away from your home thus helping maintain a lower temperature during the summer. By reducing the heat that goes inside the house, you won’t need to rely on air-conditioning as much.

7. Vacuum insulation panel

This building material is currently widely used for commercial HVAC systems but will likely be adopted for residential home building because of its useful insulation property. One of the problems with HVAC systems is the energy lost through air ducts and vents. By using vacuum insulation panels, heat loss is reduced, and you can increase the energy efficiency of your home.

8. Earthen walls

Using earth as a building material has many advantages. First, earth is abundant and readily available. It is also renewable and has a high thermal mass compared with other building materials. By going back to ancient methods of building, but improving on technique and design, you’ll find that there are still many eco-friendly options out there to choose from.