Today’s housing market has seen an increased demand for energy efficient living spaces like net zero homes from all generations and family sizes. Not only are these homes reducing our environmental impact, they also provide an economical boost for homeowners as they earn added savings from annual energy bills while also increasing the future value of their homes. Moreover, green home building is also designed to provide the best living environments for single family homes.
What is a net zero home?
Net zero homes are specially designed and engineered to reduce energy consumption and lessen our environmental impact. Zero energy homes are unique from traditional homes in their ability to generate as much renewable energy as is consumed within the household throughout the year. This results in a zero net HERS index score which is great for your wallet too!
When looking to purchase your next home, consider the following earth-friendly benefits of net zero homes to reduce your carbon footprint.
Recycled Steel Creates a Sturdy Home
Steel framed homes are growing in popularity across the nation for many reasons and some of the main ones are cost savings, sturdiness, and the customization steel homes provide. Steel is the rational option for homeowners looking to save costs to save money while still making a longstanding investment as a one time cost. In fact, the average steel home costs between $50 – $65 per square foot, which is 30% cheaper than a traditional home. BlueZero Homes uses recycled steel and saves 40 trees for each home we build. An added bonus of utilizing steel is the minimal waste that is produced from building the entire house frame – typically filling up to one 16 ounce glass.
Improved Insulation Results in Comfortable Living Conditions
Insulation is an important benefit of a zero energy home that helps regulate a home’s temperature to mitigate high volume use of an HVAC system. A recent Boston University School of Public Health shows about 90% of homes are under insulated and as a result, lose much air and ventilation. One of the best ways to improving a home’s efficiency is to reduce the workload of heating and cooling systems. Net zero homes are designed to trap heat in the winter and keep the house cool in the summer to produce a comfortable living space that does not fluctuate from room to room. The net zero result is lower energy bills and a quieter, more comfortable home.
Solar Creates Independence and Sustainability
Energy efficient solar panels play an important environmental role as they are an independent source of electricity that doesn’t contribute to global warming pollution. Having solar panels on your roof has added home living benefits of being reliable, secure, and will help you save as much as 55% on your annual energy bill costs in addition to subsidies and tax benefits.
Solar panels also increase a home’s resale value around $4 per watt. So, with the average 5-kilowatt solar system at 5,000 watts, homeowners can add up to $20,000 to your home’s value. Studies have also shown that homes with solar sell 15% faster than homes without solar.
Functional Living Spaces
Functionality in the home is highly valued in today’s housing market. Homebuyers care about open spaces that flow seamlessly throughout a modern design that maximizes space. The ability to use steel framing in a home and support beams instead of pillars provide a sturdy foundation with living spaces that can be engineered to fit the needs and desires of home buyers.
