Building green, whether remodeling or starting from the ground-up, has many benefits — from long-term cost savings to bettering the environment. At DMS Contractors, we recognize the importance of building green and the unique benefits green construction brings to our clients. If you’re planning a remodel or new construction, here are five reasons to consider going green:
- Save Money in the Long-Term: Within five years, 50% of green buildings report a payback on the additional money spent, through energy and water savings. That figure increases to 90% when you consider additional cost-saving factors, like benefits to health and productivity. Building green on average costs between 0-4% more than conventional building, a figure that most believe to be much higher. While the costs of building green are negligible, the benefits can amount to 25-35% savings in utilities. Those figures alone are convincing reasons to go green.
- Higher Resale Value: Green homes sell on average for 8.7% more, an increased value of $87,000 on a million dollar home, according to a study conducted by UCLA and UC Berkeley researchers. That figure is significantly more, on average, than the additional costs to building green, adding additional cost saving.
- A Healthier and More Comfortable Home: Building green leads to more comfortable and healthier homes. Green homes have significant increases on indoor air quality by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like formaldehyde, that can toxic elements into the air. Building green also helps keep internal temperatures stable, with fewer temperature variations than traditional buildings. These benefits help create healthier and more productive lives for occupants.
- More Durable Materials: Often, materials in green-constructed homes are more durable, allowing your new construction to last longer before worrying about significant repairs or maintenance.
- Environmental Benefits: By building green, you’re contributing to create a better and more healthy world. Green homes use less energy, emit less chemicals, and don’t need to be repaired as often — all qualities that lead to a better environment for us all.
If you’re considering a remodel or new construction and want to discuss the benefits of going green, we can help you decide how to get the most benefits out of your new construction.