Lonnie E Groom’s Post

If you are demolishing instead of renovating buildings, you are probably missing out on CO2 and cost savings 🏡 The environmental impacts of demolishing and constructing new replacement buildings of the same size results in 45-55% higher CO2 impact compared to substantial renovations. Additionally, building new is typically over double the cost over a 50-year period 📈   So, what can we do? 🔍   “I believe that many of the buildings that is demolished could instead be renovated and transformed” Mari Brandl, Senior Director of Existing Buildings. “As an industry, we need to push for change because it matters.”. One of Mari’s many renovation projects include transforming three residential blocks in Asnæs, ensuring better indoor climate and energy savings, reducing the environmental impact by 50% of a new construction and the cost of living 💡 “Asnæs exemplifies that we can reduce the CO2 footprint by preserving existing buildings. They were run down in many areas, but they have been renovated with both future energy savings and cutting half the CO2 emissions of a new construction.”  The project's location in an area where the economy may not be as robust as in big cities demonstrates that energy optimization and CO2 optimization are achievable even when facing budget constraints for high rents and construction costs.    To bring down the carbon footprint of the construction sector we must realize the potential of existing buildings and reuse and repurpose them rather than building new ones. We must respect, review and renew our existing buildings.   #RespectReviewRenew 

Aerogel Insulation Pads: #Advantages in #Residential #Construction Aerogel insulation pads are revolutionizing thermal management in residential construction, offering unique advantages that enhance comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability. One of the key benefits of aerogel insulation pads lies in their superior thermal performance. These pads have extremely low thermal conductivity, which allows them to effectively reduce heat transfer through walls, floors, and roofs. This results in better insulation compared to traditional materials like fiberglass or foam, leading to reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. Homeowners can enjoy lower utility bills while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year. Furthermore, aerogel pads are lightweight and thin, making them easy to install without adding significant bulk to walls or ceilings. This ease of installation saves time and labor costs during construction or renovation projects, making them a practical choice for builders and homeowners alike. Aerogels also contribute to sustainability efforts by improving the energy efficiency of buildings. By reducing the need for heating and cooling, they help lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. This aligns with global goals to mitigate climate change and create more environmentally friendly living spaces. In conclusion, aerogel insulation pads represent a cutting-edge solution for residential construction, offering unparalleled thermal insulation capabilities, ease of installation, and environmental benefits. As awareness grows and technology advances, aerogel pads are poised to play a crucial role in creating energy-efficient homes that are both comfortable and sustainable for future generations.

This article shows the need for building envelope improvements that not only save the buildings energy but also contribute to lowering the Urban Heat Island. Contact me for some of the innovations mentioned in the article as these are available thru our OSEA members at www.ontario-sea.org

The Three Pillars of Efficiency in Building: A Natural Building Perspective Are you tired of conventional construction methods that prioritize convenience over sustainability? As an architect practicing natural building, I understand the importance of efficiency in every stage of the building process. Let's delve into how natural building techniques excel in energy efficiency, considering the three pillars of material efficiency, operational efficiency, and end-of-life considerations. 1)Material Efficiency: In natural building, we carefully select materials with low embodied energy. By sourcing locally and using renewable or recycled materials, we minimize the environmental impact of sourcing, extraction, manufacturing, transportation, and packaging. Additionally, natural building often employs hand tools and traditional methods, reducing energy consumption during construction. 2)Operational Efficiency: Natural buildings are designed with climate and passive approaches in mind. By utilizing principles such as passive solar design, natural ventilation, and thermal mass, these homes maintain comfortable temperatures with minimal reliance on external energy sources. Incorporating renewable energy systems further reduces operational energy consumption over the building's lifespan. 3)End-of-Life Considerations: Unlike conventional construction, natural buildings prioritize longevity and reusability. When a natural building reaches the end of its lifespan or needs renovation, materials can be easily disassembled or repurposed. Instead of contributing to landfill waste, natural building materials can be returned to the earth or utilized in future construction projects, closing the loop on resource use. As an advocate for natural building, I challenge you to escape the box of inefficient conventional construction. Join the movement towards sustainable, energy-efficient building practices that prioritize harmony with nature and longevity for future generations. Let's build outside the box and create a more resilient, regenerative built environment. #BuildOutsideTheBox #NaturalBuilding #Sustainability #EnergyEfficiency

Tall glass towers dominate the skyline of major metros, increasingly becoming a fixture of downtown city landscapes. But they are also major energy hogs, presenting a problem for the climate. “By 2050, 80 per cent of the buildings that are around today will be still around. In order to achieve our climate targets, we definitely need to focus on existing buildings as well. When you compare the energy consumption of these types of existing buildings, we can see that glass towers typically have the worst thermal performance,” Vancouver-based RJC Engineers’ Mohammad Fakoor told Sustainable Biz Canada in an interview. The RJC energy modelling team lead spoke about how owners of glass towers can reduce their environmental impact by considering materials and design. #sustainability #energy #greenbuildings #buildings https://lnkd.in/evyx7zVe

Passive Homes are a benchmark for energy-efficient construction, emphasizing airtightness, high insulation levels, and the elimination of thermal bridges. These design principles reduce energy use, ensure consistent indoor temperatures, and enhance air quality. TimberFill is a trusted insulation choice in Passive Homes for its ability to meet these demanding standards. In this project, the TimberFillblown-in wall system contributed to the home's exceptional performance, supporting airtight construction while reducing heat exchange and managing moisture effectively. This approach highlights how insulation plays a critical role in creating durable, comfortable, and sustainable Passive Homes. Read more about Passive Homes here: https://lnkd.in/eDeH8TKK #PassiveHome #GreenConstruction #ReduceEnergyCosts #HomeInsulation

In today’s world, where energy efficiency is more important than ever, #polyurethane insulation is setting the standard for sustainable building materials 🏗️. With durable and customizable options, it’s making a real difference in reducing the environmental impact of residential construction. Are you ready to see buildings rise to the occasion? Let us know how you’re incorporating innovative insulation solutions into your projects. https://dow.inc/3XpjmBt

Why Use Natural Insulation in Modular Construction As the construction industry embraces more sustainable practices, modular / offsite construction is taking the lead in efficiency and innovation. But to truly build a sustainable future, it’s crucial to consider the materials that go into these modular buildings. Natural insulation materials like Wood Fibre, hemp and cellulose are emerging as the eco-friendly, high-performance choice that checks all the boxes for environmental, health, and functional benefits. Here’s why they’re a game-changer: Eco-Friendly & Low-Carbon: Natural insulations generally have a lower carbon footprint, relying on renewable sources and consuming less energy in production. They’re also biodegradable and easier to recycle, reducing the waste associated with traditional building materials. Energy Efficiency: These materials offer excellent thermal insulation and even help regulate humidity. By maintaining a stable indoor temperature and reducing the load on HVAC systems, they contribute to lower energy costs year-round. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Free from harmful chemicals and VOCs, natural insulation materials create a healthier indoor environment. Superior Comfort & Acoustics: Natural materials like wood fibre offer great soundproofing, enhancing the acoustic comfort inside modular and offsite structures. Many of these materials also naturally regulate moisture, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate. Summary; Natural insulation materials align perfectly with the principles of modular construction: efficient and sustainable. They’re a powerful step forward in reducing our carbon footprint while enhancing the quality and performance of modular buildings. https://lnkd.in/e2Xzku56 #SustainableConstruction #ModularConstruction #GreenBuilding #NaturalInsulation #EnergyEfficiency #EcoFriendly #ConstructionInnovation #IndoorAirQuality #CarbonFootprint #Architects #ArcchitecturalTechnologists

First Net Zero Energy Community in Georgia: https://buff.ly/434Puvg Homeowners are more aware of health, comfort, energy independence, and climate change. One builder in Georgia took on the challenge to build homes and even whole communities that address all of these elements. The formula for building net zero energy is not as difficult as you might think, Steven Sanders-Meyers with Brightwater Homes met with Matt Hoots of Sawhorse, Inc. to discuss their tricks to make Net Zero homes a reality. Energy efficient design, includig airsealing, insulation, and right-sized HVAc are essential to a high performance home. Energy effciient appliances are also important. Renewable energy is more impactful on a home that is already consumong energy optimally. Click to learn more about Brithwater's Net Zero Community in Roswell Georgia! #NetZero #greenbuilding #highperformance #HVAC #energyefficiency #building #buildings #construction #architecture #design #decarbonixation #electrification #engieering #architecture #design #health #comfort #healthyhomes #homes #sustainability @BrighwaterHomes #BrighwaterHomes

🌱 Why Modular Construction is the Best Choice for Home Building: Energy Efficiency 🌱 When building a home, energy efficiency isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game-changer for both environmental impact and long-term savings. With modular construction, houses are built with precision in controlled environments, reducing gaps, drafts, and other common energy leaks found in traditional builds. Many modular homes come equipped with advanced insulation and energy-saving features from the start, helping homeowners save on utility bills while reducing their carbon footprint. This focus on energy efficiency ensures a comfortable living space and a sustainable choice for the future. 🌍💡 For those who value sustainability and savings, modular construction sets a new homebuilding standard. 🏠✨ #ModularConstruction #EnergyEfficiency #SustainableLiving #HomeBuilding #EcoFriendly Ken Semler - Jim Griffin - Impresa Modular