Building energy efficiency is the first step toward achieving sustainability in buildings and organizations. Energy efficiency helps control rising energy costs, reduce environmental footprints, and increase the value and competitiveness of buildings.
The energy used by buildings is mostly generated by burning fossil fuels, which releases greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. No building should define itself as “green” unless it consumes less energy and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than average. The homebuyers can save long-term funds by making smart purchasing decisions in the beginning. You want it to last without having to replace half of the home while you live there. Take along checklist for evaluating homes from the bottom up when visiting houses for sale.
Basement
Look for a damp-free basement. A fantastic situation is a foundation constructed with precast concrete wall panels rather than poured or blocks concrete. The resulting wall panels provide a dry, comfortable, damp-resistant foundation for a home. The energy-efficient walls help lower energy costs and reduce energy leakage while providing increased living space in a comfortable setting.
Entry door
As you look at the home’s main entry door, determine what the door is made of. A solid fiberglass door is up to four times more energy efficient than a solid wood door, plus you get the benefits that fiberglass has to offer, including resistance to rot, rust, dings and weather. Touch the door and check for drafts around the perimeter. If the door feels hot or cold, there may not be enough adequate insulation in its construction
Siding
Look carefully at all sides of the home exterior to see if there is any rotting, war page, loose or missing pieces or signs of termite damage on the siding. A properly installed cladding should provide years of low-maintenance, comfort and quiet service. Fiber cement, stucco and brick home exteriors are a few options that are traditionally easy to maintain while providing a long-lasting, dependable exterior.
Windows
Determine when the windows were last replaced in the home and what type of framing material is used. One way to tell their age is to operate them. They should open, close and lock smoothly. Ideally, you’re looking for vinyl-framed windows which are extremely easy to maintain. Vinyl is an excellent insulator, and some of the best windows have fusion-welded corners and multi-chambered construction for increased energy efficiency.