If you have some renovations you’ve been meaning to perform to your multi-family property, this is a good time to go green. From prioritizing energy efficiency to going solar, there are many smart ways you can reduce your carbon footprint and promote more eco-friendly living. Here are some ways to go green with your multi-family renovation.
Air Seal the Building
Drafts are a major cause of heat loss in any structure. There are some simple ways you can seal cracks and create air tight spaces:
- Install airtight drywall: This can seal joints, seams, and openings in doors, walls, and windows during construction.
- Caulking: This will prevent airflow from getting in through small cracks and gaps.
- Weatherstripping: This foam or rubber material is best used on doors or windows.
Install Low-E Windows
Low-Emissivity glass reduces the amount of ultraviolet and infrared rays that get in through your windows. It’s a special coating that keeps the interior temperature consistent by preventing it from escaping. Did you know 30 percent of heating and cooling energy seeps out through old windows and doors? Consider replacing all windows with energy efficient windows featuring low-e glass.
Add Plenty of Insulation
When renovating, add plenty of insulation to improve the efficiency of your multi-family home. The “greenest” types of insulation include recycled cotton and cellulose insulation, which are made from 80 percent recycled materials. When considering which insulation material to use, look for products that are free of VOCs and toxins.
Because heat rises, place a thick layer of insulation on the attic floor to lock in more heat inside the living spaces. If you own an older multi-family building, keep in mind that heat can also escape from windows and walls. In this case, consider blown-in insulation for wall cavities.
Go Solar
To reduce operating costs and lower energy bills, consider adding solar panels to your roofs. You could save tens of thousands of dollars in electricity costs over the long term, while reducing your dependence on the grid.
Consider Exterior Paint
The exterior color of your multi-family building makes a difference. If located in a warm climate, light colors give a cooling effect. In colder climates like Minnesota, dark home exteriors are smart because they retain heat.
Install a Cool Roof
Cool roofs can lower outside air temperatures, slow the formation of air pollutants, and reduce peak electricity demand, which prevents power outages. According to Energy.gov, conventional roofs reach temperatures of 150°F or more on a sunny day in summer, whereby a reflective roof can stay more than 50°F (28 °C) cooler under the same conditions.
Landscape Smart
The types of trees you plant and where you plant them can make all the difference. Deciduous trees give shade during summer, while maximizing heat and light during winter when they drop their leaves. The best location for trees is on the south and west sides of your structure.
There are many ways you can go green when planning renovations for your multi-family property. Let us help!
Contact Allstar Construction & Maintenance
Allstar Construction & Maintenance is experienced in green building and renovation practices. Let us help you lower your carbon footprint and create a more sustainable property. Please contact us by phone at 952-942-7454 or request a free bid online.
