Page 35 - 2025 Parade Style Magazine

crucial in homes and commercial settings where occupants may
be sensitive to air pollutants.
Sustainable building materials are transitioning from a niche choice
to a standard practice in high-performance construction. Whether
your goals include reducing environmental impact, enhancing ener-
gy efficiency, or improving indoor air quality, opting for sustainable
materials can help you achieve your project objectives while adding
value. As the construction industry moves toward this eco-conscious
approach, the benefits of sustainable materials will become even
more significant for developers, builders, and homeowners alike.
Engineered Wood products like Laminated Veneer Lumber
(LVL) and I-joists are excellent alternatives to traditional timber.
They are made from smaller, fast-growing trees and use fewer
resources while providing superior strength and consistency.
Engineered wood also generates less waste, making it a more
sustainable choice for framing and structural applications.
y Long-Term Cost Savings While the initial expense of sustain-
able materials may be higher, they frequently lead to substantial
long-term savings through reduced energy consumption and
lower maintenance needs. For instance, materials such as com-
posite decking and engineered wood products boasts durability
and performance, resulting in infrequent replacements and
lower lifecycle costs.
y Reduced Environmental Impact Utilizing eco-friendly mate-
rials—such as engineered wood, recycled metals, and low-VOC
paints—helps to conserve resources and minimize waste. Many
sustainable options have lower embodied energy, meaning they
require less energy to produce and transport, further decreasing
their overall environmental footprint.
y Energy Efficiency Numerous sustainable building materials
are specifically designed to bolster energy efficiency. Examples
include energy-efficient windows, insulated concrete forms, and
cool roofing materials. These products improve insulation and
reduce energy usage, ultimately lowering utility expenses for
homeowners and occupants.
y Compliance with Green Building Standards Sustainable
materials are essential for meeting green building certification
criteria, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design) or NAHB Green Building Standards. By using low-VOC
finishes, recycled materials, and energy-efficient systems, build-
ers can achieve certification, which enhances the marketability
and value of their projects.
y Healthier Indoor Air Quality Materials like low-VOC paints
and formaldehyde-free insulation significantly improve indoor
air quality by reducing harmful emissions. This is particularly
Composit Decking is made from a combination of recycled
plastics and wood fibers, offering a sustainable alternative to
traditional wood decking.
Energy Efficient Windows & Doors are designed to provide
better insulation, reducing the amount of energy needed to
heat or cool a building. Many of these products are Energy Star
certified, meaning they meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines.
They also help improve overall indoor comfort while lowering
energy bills, making them a popular choice for both new builds
and renovations.
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