BUILD 2021
SUSTAINABILITY
Milin Builders, Phillip
Sustainability is an important consideration when you are designing your new home. You should consider factors such as the amount and type of vegetation to be cleared or retained, solar orientation, energy efficiency, the methods of heating and cooling, and the choice of building materials, all of which can impact the environmental impact of your home, the cost and ongoing operating costs. While energy efficiency standards exist in the Building Code of Australia, these are only minimum standards. There are a range of ideas that you could incorporate to make your new home or renovation more energy efficient (and sustainable):
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Use renewable energy sources (the sun) and solar panels
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Consider the design (and colour) of your roof and walls
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Position your windows and doors to allow for cross-ventilation
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Check the glazing and types of frames on your windows and doors and right for their location
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Include space for a rainwater tank (a requirement in the ACT) – and use it
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Install quality insulation
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If energy efficiency and sustainability are your objectives, we recommend you speak with your designer or architect, and your builder, early in the design process to ensure this is achieved.
