Expanding your home can be costly, but there are ways to recoup expenses over time and increase your return on investment. Choosing energy-efficient building materials and following some smart building practices will help you craft a new home expansion that lowers energy bills and increases property value.
Maximize Small Spaces
Smaller homes cost less to heat and cool, making them a popular choice among builders today. You don’t have to compromise your desire for extra space during an addition, but you can lower costs and energy consumption by using space-savvy layouts.
For example, an L-shaped room can offer a larger sense of space and more design opportunity while having 100 to 200 fewer square feet than a square or rectangular room. Speak with a home builder who can help you explore unique design options. You may be surprised at how much you can get out of a slightly smaller space while saving money on the project.
Use Energy-Efficient Materials
New additions have plenty of opportunities to make an existing property more eco-friendly. You may decide to go with recycled or reclaimed materials like steel, plastic, glass, or engineered wood. These materials can be repurposed into beams, frames, decking, insulation, and so much more.
You may also look to incorporate insulated concrete forms (ICFs). They are much more energy-efficient than regular concrete and can lower your overall heating and cooling costs while also offering enhanced noise cancellation.
Use Large Windows and Skylights
Natural lighting is the best way to reduce how much you rely on electricity. Also, rooms that get more sunlight can stay warmer in the winter, meaning you can get away with keeping the thermostat several degrees lower or not running your heater as much.
Spacious windows are eye-catching and functional. Just be sure to choose double- or triple-pane glass and have the windows weather-stripped for a tight seal. This will give you maximum insulation.
Reduce Direct Sun Exposure in Warmer Months
Hanging planters or trees can be great natural additions to your home expansion that keep too much sun from warming your home in the summer. You can also install smart shades that come with built-in light controls, programmable schedules, and even voice activation.
The goal of an energy-efficient home addition is to maximize sunlight in the winter and reduce heat exposure when the temperature warms up. Think about the year-round impact of your climate on your home, and work with an experienced contractor who can develop the right layout to create a truly adaptable home design.
Upgrade Your HVAC
If your home addition will be connected to an existing HVAC system, consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR model. You could also look into a ductless mini split system with smart thermostat compatibility. This setup would allow you to individually control the temperature in your new room and have remote control over your heating and cooling.
Are you looking for a modern builder who can bring your next home addition to life? Contact SYC Premier General Contractors for professional home additions in Port Arthur, TX.