Living in the Sarasota area, we are acutely aware of how important it is to protect our environment. From recycling to water conservation, being environmentally conscious is a way of life.
Constructing your home with energy efficient and green goals in mind is an excellent way to ensure that not only is your living space environmentally friendly, but it is economically sustainable.
When you decide to build and design an energy efficient home, there are many possibilities to consider. Whether you choose to incorporate all of these details or just a few, you will be doing your part to make life better for you and your family.
Construction Features
Cool Roofing Materials: Our sunshine can be unrelenting, and our air conditioners run almost continually to keep our homes cool.
However, you can assist your A/C’s performance by installing a “cool roof”.
These roofs are specially designed to reflect sunlight and minimize roofing temperatures. Reflective material can be added to tiles or shingles to keep the surface temperatures lower, while a metal roof is most efficient at reflecting the heat.
Doors and Windows: Doors and windows often have energy-performance scores. These scores indicate how effectively cool air will be retained inside the home depending on your selection.
Along with hurricane ratings and style, therefore, keep energy efficiency in mind when choosing doors, windows, and sliders.
Exterior Colors: In a climate such as here in South Florida, a light exterior color may help the home stay cooler.
Insulation & Ventilation: Building in the proper type of insulation, in the right amount, will help to trap air-conditioned air in your home and minimize cooling costs. Having proper ventilation and fans in your attic will allow hot air to circulate and escape, rather than sit stagnant over your living area.
Interior Features
Window Coverings: That wide open view bathed in sunlight is one you have dreamed of for years. But when you are not home (or if the house is vacant for a few months) it is important to have sunlight blocking curtains, blinds, shades or shutters. These window coverings will keep the house significantly cooler, as well as protect any carpet or furniture, which will fade over time if sunlight is streaming in. It is a great habit to close blinds and curtains whenever you leave the house. as it will greatly reduce the strain on your air conditioning system on a daily basis.
Skylights: In an environment with so much persistent sun, skylights make sense as a light source throughout the day. Utilizing skylights minimizes the need to switch on electric or fluorescent lights during the day.
Word to the wise, however – you will need to check skylights regularly to make sure their seals are watertight. During the rainy season, they may be vulnerable to water intrusion.
Fixtures and Energy Saving Appliances: When you purchase the appliances and the fixtures for your home, consider checking the Energy-Star rating. Choosing items with high Energy-Star ratings can represent significant cost savings each year. Energy-Star ratings are displayed on most appliances and fixtures.
Flooring: Homes in the Longboat Key and Sarasota area are subject to sub-tropical climate and weather. The type of flooring you choose can help with energy efficiency. Rugs and carpets generally trap heat, while tile can keep the home cooler.
If you are interested in building an energy efficient home, speak to a professional custom home builder. We can help you to choose materials and design features which will be good for the environment – and good for your wallet. Let’s get started on building your custom home – call our Sarasota contractors, today!