Reuse, Reduce, Recycle
Our ethos revolves around three key principles: reuse, reduce, and recycle. Reusing materials is a fundamental pillar of our approach. We find innovative ways to repurpose materials across various projects, ensuring minimal waste. Concrete formboards, for example, are a versatile resource used not only in current projects but also in future constructions, significantly reducing the need for new materials.
Alicia highlighted that this strategy not only saves costs but dramatically curtails the amount of waste generated during construction. This approach aligns with a statistic that as much as 30% of building materials delivered to a construction site can end up as waste (ScienceDirect).
Reuse–our zero-waste mindset
Our commitment to a zero-waste mindset is unwavering. Every piece of material, including cut-off sections, is cataloged and repurposed whenever possible. This meticulous approach directly addresses the concerning statistic that construction and demolition projects filled U.S. landfills with almost 145 million tons of waste in 2018 (EPA).
Reduce–the art of reduction
We don't believe in compromising quality while reducing waste. By adopting advanced framing techniques that utilize two-foot spacing instead of the traditional sixteen, we've optimized insulation without overusing materials. This approach requires careful planning and coordination, but the benefits in terms of sustainability and cost-efficiency are substantial.
Recycle–material choice matters
We're choosy about the materials we use. Simple choices like using recycled concrete aggregate help us to keep the environment and landfill capacity in mind. These options don't have to be more expensive or lower-quality.
Empowering Homeowners
For homeowners considering construction or renovation, understanding sustainable building practices can be overwhelming. Alicia and I discussed the top three crucial questions they should consider when engaging with a builder:
- Understanding the Building Envelope: The building envelope isn't just about creating walls; it's about sealing the house effectively. I like to think about this like it's a puffy sweater surrounding your home. Really, its about airtight construction, which ensures comfort and cost savings.
- Quality Materials: While higher initial costs might be involved, the long-term return on investment in energy efficiency makes them a wise choice. Materials like Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) often offer substantial energy savings, sometimes up to 60%, compared to traditional materials.
- Engaging the Right Contractor: Partnering with a contractor who values sustainability is essential. Inquiring about their waste reduction methods, use of quality materials, and commitment to energy-efficient construction is critical.
Sustainability isn't just a choice; it's a responsibility. Embracing sustainable building practices isn't just about environmental stewardship; it's about creating better spaces. By empowering homeowners and engaging in mindful construction, we're contributing to a more sustainable future, one building at a time.
