What is a Green Building?
When looking for home improvements or a new home, many homeowners want upgrades with an extended life and reduced energy costs. During their research, many find themselves asking,“What is a green building?”
Green buildings incorporate energy-efficient materials that focus on sustainability and a long product life. However, a green building is much more than just the materials. A green building’s primary focus is on the relationship between the built environment and the natural environment.
When an architect or custom home builder undertakes a green build, they must consider energy use, water use, indoor environment, and the impact on the surrounding natural environment. When homes and offices are built following green building guidelines, they cause less harm and do more good. This criterion comprises the basic parameters for the different credit categories within the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system. A building can achieve a LEED certification by proving that the occupants have a healthier, resource-efficient space that improves the surrounding outdoor environment.
What are the Benefits of a Green Building
Economic benefits – Green buildings have optimized HVAC systems that utilize natural elements to assist in regulating the indoor environment. This, coupled with superior insulation, LED lights, and smart controls, can reduce energy use by 20% or more compared to conventional building methods. Low-flow water fixtures, faucets, and irrigation can further reduce costs. Sustainable materials usually last longer than other materials, which decreases repair and replacement frequency.
Health & Productivity Benefits – Green buildings incorporate robust ventilation systems, focus on reducing the use of materials with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and continuously monitor carbon dioxide and other air-borne particulates. This improved indoor air quality results in better overall physical and mental well-being for the occupants. Studies have shown that a reduction in air-borne pollutants can improve sleep and elevate one’s mood and self-esteem.
Environmental benefits – Certifying a home as a LEED green building means there is a significant reduction in the impact that the home will have on the Earth. These buildings reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease water and energy use, divert waste from landfills, and conserve natural resources.
Future-proof building – Energy-efficient and safety regulations for homes and businesses have gotten more stringent over the last few decades. Because green buildings go above and beyond with building standards, they are resilient to climate change, resource scarcity, and evolving energy and safety regulations.
Skylight and Sun Tunnel Skylights are Ideal for Green Building
Some of the most effective options are a venting skylight or a Sun Tunnel. These products improve any building’s daylighting strategy while reducing energy costs. Skylights and Sun Tunnel skylights provide ample natural light throughout the day, reducing the reliance on artificial light.
A skylight with a solar-powered shade can help with heating by letting in solar heat during the winter months. When the skylight shade is closed, skylights can reduce the use of air conditioning during the summer months during the hottest part of the day. Venting skylights with a solar-powered shade take this a step further by releasing hot trapped air and helping to draw in fresh air.
Besides saving money, the daylight and fresh air provided by skylights have been shown to boost mental and physical well-being. All VELUX skylights are built to last twenty years or more. VELUX offers an industry-leading 10-year warranty on the product and installation. And as a final draw to skylights, these eco-friendly home upgrades can be added to a home during the planning, construction, or even renovation of a green building.
VELUX Skylights are a Great Addition to Any Project
Green building projects are just one place where skylights enhance a project. Kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels, and bedroom upgrades can all benefit from more daylight and fresh air. We have Design and Product Advisors available who will be happy to meet with homeowners virtually. They can highlight the benefits of venting skylights, Sun Tunnel skylights, or roof windows, depending on the build.
For roofers, remodelers, or other contractors looking for skylight or Sun Tunnel installation assistance, we have multiple skylight installation videos to review. VELUX also offers hands-on training and sales tips in select areas. There is in-class training at Pro Partner Academies, and mobile installation vans that can provide an on the job workshop. Local VELUX reps are also available for any questions.
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