As we become more aware of the importance of being eco-friendly in all aspects of our lives and want to reduce our energy consumption there is a growing interest in using more traditional building materials in house construction.
One of the most eco-friendly construction materials for a home is recycled steel as it utilises steel already in existence for structural use. The reclaimed steel from around six cars provides enough recycled steel to build a modern home. Steel is in fact the most recycled material in the world and recycled steel is used in the manufacture of all new steel making it extremely environmentally friendly.
Another traditional material that is being used is bamboo. Surprisingly, bamboo is increasing in popularity as a building material and is very sustainable since it grows quickly. Bamboo, like real wood, is a natural composite material with a high strength-to-weight ratio making it useful for structures. It has a higher compressive strength than wood, brick or concrete and a tensile strength that rivals steel.
An extraordinary material that is being utilised in some homes is sheep’s wool as the insulating features make sheep’s wool an energy-efficient insulator in walls, ceilings and attics. Sheep wool insulation is totally natural, environmentally friendly, and quick and easy to install. Wool insulation and other eco-friendly products appeal to the growing numbers of homeowners looking for green buildings with an excellent energy rating.