Green Practices Every Builder Should Know
In an era where environmental consciousness is more critical than ever, the construction industry is evolving to meet the new, higher expectations of stakeholders from owners to prospective residents. Builders are now expected to integrate sustainable practices into their projects, every project, ensuring that the buildings of tomorrow are both environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, without exception. Here’s a look at practices and products that every builder should be aware of and use, whether new to the revolution or a weathered soldier in the fight to save our planet.
5 Product Categories to Make Your New Standard
Energy Star Appliances
First up, we have Energy Star appliances – the rock stars of energy efficiency for the kitchen and laundry room. With standards managed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these appliances help slash energy consumption without sacrificing performance. From fridges and washers to lightbulbs and dishwashers, Energy Star products use significantly less energy, saving money on utility bills and reducing the building’s carbon footprint. Plus, they are often eligible for rebates and incentives, making them a smart financial choice as well.
Double-Pane Windows
Next on the list are double-pane windows – your ticket to a well-insulated building. As you well know, but may want to remind stakeholders, these windows feature two layers of glass with a space in-between, acting as a fantastic barrier to heat loss and heat gain. Even if your only change was to include double-pane windows, the buildings you build, own, manage or design will stay warmer in the winter cold and cooler in the summer heat, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. Plus, they help cut down on outside noise, making the building feel like a peaceful retreat. Additionally, double-pane windows can significantly lower energy bills, contributing to long-term savings for owners and management companies.
Water-Saving Faucets & Fixtures
Have you ever calculated how much water a single bathroom faucet might use daily? Water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can make a big difference. The best faucets and fixtures reduce water consumption without compromising performance (yes, it can be done)! Imagine a luxurious shower experience that uses less water than most or a faucet that helps you conserve every drop of water possible. Pioneer, Olympia and Central Brass’ water-saving faucets not only help you save on your water bills today, but also contribute to a more sustainable future. They also look amazing, come with the best warranty in their class, are easy to install and have our support and sales teams backing them up (it’s all true). Check out our low-flow, high-performance faucets to find the perfect fit for your project. Calculate your possible savings when you use our Lux-Flow low-flow showerheads here.
Insulation and Sealing
Let’s not forget about insulation and sealing – the unsung heroes of home efficiency. Proper insulation in a building’s walls, attic, and floors keeps it comfortable year-round and reduces energy consumption. Combine this with sealing or preventing leaks around windows, doors, and ducts, and you’ve got a recipe for lower energy bills and a more eco-friendly building. Effective insulation and sealing also enhance indoor air quality by preventing drafts and moisture buildup.
Programmable Thermostats
Rounding out our list are programmable thermostats – the brain of a unit’s heating and cooling system. These smart devices allow for setting temperature schedules that match the residents’ lifestyles, ensuring their homes are always at the perfect temperature without wasting energy. Residents wake up to a warm house in the winter and come home to a cool space in the summer, all while saving energy and money. Common spaces, from the front desk to the mailroom to the building’s gym, can be kept at an ideal temperature while in use and drop down or ramp up when not in use for quantifiable savings. Programmable thermostats can also be controlled remotely, adding an extra layer of convenience and efficiency.
We’ll Save You Money and Time
There are many ways to the same destination. This saying applies to multifamily housing builds just as much as to anything else in life. The ultimate goal is save as much money as possible while delivering a great finished project – that’s simply showing smart business sense. But, finding a one-off deal or sacrificing quality isn’t the only way to get a healthy ROI. We have a better way.
Pioneer works with professionals every day to develop specification packages and plans that save our valued partners both time and money, sometimes in surprising ways. It’s our goal to ensure your project meets or exceeds its expected outcome. We want to get to know you and your company and show you how we can save you money. Please reach out via our website form or call us at (800) 338-9468.
Embracing these standards means you’re not just building; you’re building sustainably. And speaking of sustainability, choosing the right products is a key part of this process. That’s where we come in. Our company specializes in high-quality, eco-friendly faucets that align perfectly with these green standards. Whether it’s our water-saving designs for reducing water usage or our energy-efficient technologies that pair well with other energy-saving appliances, we’ve got you covered. Transform your next project with these beautiful and exceptionally durable faucets and accessories from Pioneer and the Pioneer family of products, Central Brass, and Olympia. All are backed by a best-in-the-industry warranty, are easy to install, and will stand the test of time.
