Building Materials for Net Zero Home Construction
A BillionBricks’ Home: Combination of prefab and local construction, using proprietary column structure design and integrated solar roofing system
When it comes to home building, people use many different materials like wood, concrete, and metal. But did you know that some houses can be built with special materials that help the environment? These houses are called net-zero homes, and they are built to use very little energy from sources like gas or electricity.
Some net zero homes can even create their own energy! For net zero home construction, builders use special materials that can help keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Builders also use sustainable building materials and eco friendly materials.
Insulation Materials
Net zero homes are a special kind of house designed to be very energy-efficient. These kinds of homes use sustainable construction materials. One of the key features of a net zero home is the insulation. Insulation is the material that helps keep the warm air inside the house in the winter, and the cool air inside the house in the summer.
One popular insulation material used in net zero homes is called cellulose. Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper that has been treated with chemicals to make it fire-resistant. This insulation material is blown into the walls and ceilings of the house, and it forms a thick layer that helps keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Cellulose insulation is a good choice for net zero homes because it is made from recycled materials, which helps reduce waste.
Another popular insulation material for net zero homes is called spray foam. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, spray foam insulation is made from a mixture of chemicals that are sprayed into the walls and ceilings of the house. The foam expands to fill any gaps or cracks, creating a tight seal that helps keep the warm air inside the house. Spray foam insulation is a good choice for net zero homes because it is very effective at reducing energy loss.
For net zero home construction, some use a type of insulation called rigid foam. According to an article by Green Building Advisor, rigid foam insulation is made from a special type of plastic that is very lightweight but also very strong. This insulation material is placed on the outside of the house, underneath the siding. Rigid foam insulation helps prevent heat from escaping through the walls of the house, and it also helps keep the house cool in the summer.
Renewable Energy System
Another key feature of a net zero home is the use of renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources are energy sources that come from natural sources that are constantly replenished, like the sun, wind, and water.
One popular renewable energy source used in net-zero homes is solar energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar panels are installed on the roof of the house to collect energy from the sun. The energy is then converted into electricity that can be used to power the home. Solar energy is a good choice for net zero homes because it is a clean and renewable source of energy.
Another renewable energy source for net zero homes is wind energy. According to an article by Energy Sage, wind turbines can be installed on the property surrounding the home to generate electricity. The turbines capture energy from the wind and convert it into electricity that can be used to power the home. Wind energy is a good choice for net zero homes in areas with consistent wind patterns.
Role of BillionBricks in Net Zero Home Construction
BillionBricks focuses on providing shelter for low-income families and vulnerable populations. One of the ways they do this is by building net-zero homes that are affordable and sustainable. The organization's goal is to provide safe and dignified housing for everyone, while also addressing the challenges of climate change.
BillionBricks' net zero homes are designed to be self-sufficient, meaning that they generate as much energy as they consume. This is achieved through a combination of energy-efficient design, renewable energy systems, and sustainable building materials. The homes are also designed to be affordable.
Additionally, BillionBricks also works to promote sustainable practices in the construction industry. The organization advocates for the use of sustainable building materials and encourages the adoption of energy-efficient design practices.
You can email us at hello@billionbricks.org to know more about our projects.
Sources:
Energy Vanguard. (n.d.). 2 ways to get the best insulation in your homes. Retrieved from https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/2-ways-get-best-insulation-home/
Paragon Protection. (n.d.). What You Should Know About Spray Foam Insulation. Retrieved from https://www.paragon-protection.com/what-you-should-know-about-spray-foam-insulation/
Echotape. (n.d.). The Pros and Cons of Rigid Foam Sheating. Retrieved from https://echotape.com/construction-and-insulation/pros-cons-rigid-foam-sheathing/
U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Solar. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/solar
Energy Sage. (n.d.). Wind Energy Pros and Cons. Retrieved from https://www.energysage.com/about-clean-energy/wind/pros-cons-wind-energy/
U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Geothermal Heat Pumps. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/geothermal-heat-pumps
