Green construction | Top techniques to maintain an eco-friendly environment

The construction industry is one that has evolved over the years. Newer technology has come to light, easing the construction process and doing what was traditionally impossible. However, one menace that this industry produces is pollution and land degradation. Fortunately, technology has found a way to assist. So if you're operating a construction business and want to adopt better practices, then here are some techniques you can go for. Besides, adopting eco-friendly solutions would also give your business a competitive edge.

Go for hydro excavation

When it comes to building homes and erecting buildings, excavation is mandatory to ensure your foundation is stable. Your client may also desire to have a swimming pool or a home with underground chambers. That's where hydro excavation comes in. This technique is virtually non-destructive. Water at high pressurised condition is used to break up the soil, and a vacuum then sucks up the muddy result.

The best part is that hydro excavation doesn't harm any underground utilities or damage plant roots. It can be quite handy when you intend on exposing these underground pipes without destroying them.

If you're planning on constructing in the winter, then hydro excavation should be on top of your list. You can use hot, pressurised water to melt the snow and make the excavation process even easier.

Use biodegradable material

A huge heap of waste and chemicals is usually left behind after a construction job. Disposing of these materials becomes such a huge pain.

If you want to bring this to a halt, start by building using products that don't release chemicals into the atmosphere on deteriorating. Materials such as hemp are a good option. Industrial hemp is a biodegradable material from plants that can significantly enhance the insulation levels of a building.

You could also go for faux lumber. This is a form of biodegradable plastic that looks a lot like wood. It lasts longer, gives character to a home and is a lot cheaper as compared to wood. Faux lumber can be used to replace wood in applications such as ceiling construction.

Prioritise on insulation

When building homes, focus on the insulation. Heating and cooling normally account for about 50% of the energy used in a home. Insulation can be done in various ways. For concrete, you can go for foam or loose fills. Flax is a common natural insulator, and it generally contains potato starch as a binder. You can also go for hemp or treated sheep's wool for insulation. These products are completely eco-friendly and won't exude any dangerous chemicals.


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