Homeowners, today, don’t only want aesthetic properties. They want homes that reflect their style and respect the planet. With custom built homes, integrating sustainable elements is much easier because you can handpick every detail from energy-efficient systems to eco-friendly materials.
Start with Passive Design Principles
Play with natural elements like sunlight, shade, and wind to regulate indoor temperatures without excessively using the HVAC system. You can maximize solar gain in winter and shade in summer by installing overhangs, louvers, or awnings to block excessive sunlight. South-facing windows paired with thermal mass materials like stone or concrete retains more heat during winters.
Install Renewable Energy Systems
Solar panels are a popular choice in Canada, especially in Kingston and Odessa. The Ontario government offers a one-of-its-kind interest-free loan of up to $40,000 to install solar panels. Once installed, you can enroll for the Net Metering Program to offset electricity costs by feeding surplus energy back into the grid.
Newer solar panel solutions are sleek, come in various sizes and shapes that can be incorporated into your home’s design. Other than that, you can also install geothermal heating and cooling systems that reduce HVAC needs by up to 70% and small-scale wind turbines and biomass systems in more rural areas.
Invest in Advanced Insulation
Spray foam insulation or aerogel provide superior thermal resistance, but you can also explore eco-friendly options like cellulose insulation. It is made from recycled paper or hemp insulation, is biodegradable and just as effective.
Choose High-Performance Windows and Doors
Improper windows and doors cause the most heat loss. Instead, invest in triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings to prevent heat transfer. For doors, look for materials like fiberglass or insulated steel. It is also a good idea to add weather stripping to minimize drafts, and install window treatments, like cellular shades.
Smart Home Technology
Smart systems let you control energy use through an app. You can handpick technologies you want included in the system to maximise energy savings. We recommend thermostats, motion-sensor lighting, and energy-monitoring systems. Smart irrigation system offers an added bonus as it waters your garden only when necessary, saving both water and energy.
Select Sustainable Building Materials
Materials with low embodied energy, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, or concrete made with fly ash have a low environmental impact. For decks, you can choose recycled steel and composite decking materials, both of which are low maintenance and eco-friendly. If you need new materials, you can source them locally to reduce their carbon footprint.
Prioritize Water Efficiency Indoors
Inside your home, opt for fixtures certified by WaterSense. These include low-flow faucets, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets. If you have the space for it, we highly recommend greywater recycling systems to reuse water from sinks and showers for non-potable uses like flushing toilets.
Use VOC-Free Paints and Finishes
Traditional paints and finishes release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can degrade indoor air quality. Your contractor in Kingston can help you select paints and finishes that are healthier for your family and the environment.
Ready to get started? Your Kingston Contractor can help you build the sustainable custom home of your dreams. Contact today for a free consultation.
