New building materials and methods are created every year, and the trend of utilizing sustainable building materials has been on the rise as adoption has accelerated. As a result, companies of all sizes are increasingly choosing sustainable alternatives across all aspects of new / legacy buildings and corporate workplaces and reaping the benefits in multiple dimensions. With this rapid evolution, new data supporting standards and regulations are required to help with purchasing decisions and verify manufacturer claims.

Sustainable materials continue to become more cost-effective as time goes on, and in parallel, they are significantly better for the environment in the long run. There’s been a lot of discussion about whether or not using sustainable materials is worth the required sourcing due diligence on the front-end of the exploration. However, the following are a few primary reasons why sustainable building materials matter and why you should consider partnering with enterprises driving eco-friendly impact in 2022.

Environmental Protection

The world and its ecosystem are in a fragile state, as climate change is worsening. With growing commerce industries and residential neighborhoods encroaching on natural habitats and polluting the air, nature has taken a hit. During the recent pandemic, as people were driving much less, society experienced the closure of many factories. Reciprocally, we saw consistent positive improvements in our collective impact on harmful emissions into the environment. We’re now at a crucial point in the human/nature relationship. There is a way to maintain balance without giving up on industry and innovation with proper care and dedication.

Building with sustainable materials like natural stones is one way to maintain the balance alive, while continuing to grow – and trusted third parties (such as GreenCircle Certified) are becoming reliable points of accountability to ensure certification standards are upheld in the process. Saving the economy doesn’t mean giving up on expansion; it just means finding new innovative ways to create and innovate. 

Companies that build with sustainable materials demonstrate to their employees, customers, clients, and partners committed to keeping the planet healthy. As increasingly more businesses and consumers are educated on this topic and purposefully seek out companies with this mindset, this ultimately leads to increased satisfaction, along with revenue and profits.

Increased Durability and Style

Most sustainable building materials are meant to last, so these materials aren’t just sustainable for the environment. But also for the experiences that these products and buildings serve. Examples such as natural woods, bamboo, and cork are heavy-duty materials that can withstand most of what life throws at them. Not only do they hold up well, but they often provide enhanced aesthetics and are more appealing than plastic. In addition, products made with sustainability at the core often strike a compelling balance when high-quality engineering meets innovative ergonomic designs – following is a great example: the Humanscale Cinto.

Maintaining Affordability

Architects, developers, planners, contractors, installers, and facility managers all serve at the intersection of this green movement to design and build our future buildings and work environments of tomorrow. The concept of building with sustainable materials is becoming the centerpiece of our future.

Dynamic software platforms such as Ecomedes are helping enterprises identify suppliers and manufacturers that increase durability, enhance sustainability, and create affordability Scaling with green building materials is a critical part in the global initiative supporting the circular economy, as many sustainable materials reduce energy costs over time as well. 

Enterprises no longer need to decide on reducing costs or purchasing sustainable products and materials – companies can now certainly have both and trust in solutions that are good for business, profit, and for humanity.

The post Sustainable Building Materials Are Vital to Modern Construction appeared first on Green Building Insider.

More landscapers are finding ways to offer their services without causing harm to the environment. They use materials that don’t poison the groundwater, harm surrounding vegetation or leave a large carbon footprint.

One of the materials that eco-friendly landscapers should consider using is rock salt. This is one of the most environmentally friendly materials to deal with ice buildup.

Use Rock Salt for Eco-Friendly Landscaping Projects

Snow can be a problem for even the most experienced eco-friendly landscapers. Landscapers need to use the right materials to handle ice problems without harming the environment.

Recently, there has been an increase in anti-icing and deicing materials. Therefore, it will help if the salt company managers can balance the pros and cons of the solutions in place. This may be cost-effective and improve the outcome of the project at the same time. For instance, they should consider the environmental impacts and know how they can be efficiently applied.

Most significantly, it is significant to know why you should shop for rock salt or deicer wholesale. Ideally, the food and retail industries were not the first to reveal that buying products in bulk is ideal for every individual. But, most wholesale landscaping industries did. 

Another benefit of buying wholesale is that it can actually be eco-friendlier. You will be buying from a regional distributor that can transport the products more efficiently than a national supplier, which means that they don’t have as large of a carbon footprint when transporting it.

These industries offer their clients products like bulk rock salt. This is a deal that enables the growth of your business. But how can buying rock salt from a local supplier enhance the growth of your business? Read on and learn more benefits associated with buying salt rock in bulk.

It saves Money

Of course, you care about protecting the environment. But you also have to think about your bottom line. The good news is that buying rock salt from the right distributor isn’t just better for the environment. It can also save you money!

You pay less when you purchase the best products from rock salt supplier serving the Midwest. It is critical to note that buying rock salts in bulk is cheaper than buying a single bag at a time.

Sufficient Supply of Rock Salt Products

Some places are mainly experiencing a bit of variable weather. Besides, some regions are experiencing worse weather compared to other regions. In other words, many individuals always underestimate the amount of deicer that they believe they will need during the winter months.

For the supplier to be better prepared than the clients, the suppliers should consider placing orders of wholesale landscaping equipment such as bagged rock salt from a reliable supplier like Ninja De-icer. That will make the buyers understand that that particular supplier is the best for a sufficient supply of rock salt products.

This is another reason that rock salt can be good for the environment. You won’t have to buy it as often, which means that you will leave a smaller carbon footprint with transporting it.

Minimize Shortages

As a manufacturer of wholesale landscaping products like deicer and ice melt salt, it will help to let your customer know when there are shortages of your products. Some stores tend to run out of the deicer or rock salts before the end of winter, making such distributors lose their potential business opportunities.

Instead of being one of those stores that must forgo a client business, you should place an order for bulk rock salt with your chosen distributors now to make sure that your business is safe from shortages.

Ease of Application

Speed and ease of application, together with reduced loading and transport cost, make a deicer very friendly from a labor perspective. Unlike granular products, they can be very pricey, labor-intensive, and the application procedure can negatively impact the safety in high-pedestrian regions.

Quality

It will help if you consider shopping for high-quality products from the rock salt supplier serving the Midwest. Here, you will be offered the best quality products in bulk at affordable costs. When you buy quality rock salt products, it means that you will be prepared for some severe storms in your region.

Keep reading this article and understand the reasons why you should consider buying the best rock salt products in bulk from the best suppliers near you.

Buying Rock Salt from the Right Distributor is Important for Eco-Friendly Landscapers

Eco-friendly landscapers need to use the right materials to minimize destruction to the environment. They may want to consider using rock salt when they have to deice the areas they will be performing landscaping projects. The right distributor can make all the difference in the world.

The post Why Eco-Friendly Landscapers Need Rock Salt from Reliable Distributers appeared first on Green Building Insider.

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice for roofing, but they are not your only option. There are many materials available today that are not only attractive and durable, but also eco-friendly.

Why Go Green With Your Roof?

Eco-friendly roofs are friendly to more than just the environment. Sustainable roofing can lead to a higher property value, which will come in handy if you ever sell your home. But you don’t need to move to feel the advantages of a green roof.

Some eco-friendly materials like metal or slate can last upwards of 50 years, double the lifespan of an asphalt roof. Then there’s the benefit of sustainable living. Protecting the environment is a growing concern, and using green roofing materials is one way you can contribute to that cause.

Sustainable roofs have a lot to offer. But what specific materials can you use?

Metal

Metal roofs are some of the longest-lasting ones out there. Though metal roofing can be expensive, you will likely never have to replace it. These roofs are durable enough to withstand rain, snow, hail and wind for years to come.

Because of its slippery nature, metal roofing is ideal for collecting rainwater or preventing snow buildup. One possible downside is that some metals may rust over time. However, many alloys are resistant to corrosion. Even vulnerable metals can resist rusting if appropriately treated.

Clay

People have used clay as a roofing material for centuries. It has a proven track record of weathering the elements. Exceptional strength aside, these roofs are also notable for their beauty.

Not only are earthen tiles durable and aesthetically pleasing, but they are also easy to recycle. If that wasn’t enough, clay is also fireproof, making it pretty close to invincible. There is, however, a cost for all these advantages.

Clay tiles are heavy, and as such, you cannot install them yourself like you can with other materials. You will have to hire a professional roofer to apply them, which means you’ll have to spend more money.

Slate

Slate is a kind of rock made up of clay and volcanic ash. This material offers many of the same benefits as clay tile: It is durable, fireproof and attractive, often coming in sleek, dark colors. Unfortunately, it also shares clay’s downsides.

Slate roofing is heavy and requires strong supports and professional installment. It is also comparatively expensive. Artificial slate is an available, and cheaper, option, but some people can spot the difference in appearance between this and the real thing.

Wood

Wood never goes out of style. It’s natural, it’s attractive and it’s versatile. Wooden shingles and shakes look good on nearly every kind of house and alongside almost any building materials.

Like with metal, there are several different kinds of wood you can use as roofing, although cedar is the most popular. Various woods have different properties, but generally, wood roofing provides excellent insulation from temperatures in both extremes.

One unique aspect of wood is that it will change color as it ages, but this may be desirable, as many people believe it looks better over time. The major drawback of wooden roofing is that it’s flammable. To protect your home, if you go with a wood roof, you’ll want to get it treated with flame-resistant materials.

Recycled Shingles

Recycling is one of the best things you can do to help the environment. While asphalt may not be eco-friendly on its own, you can recycle asphalt shingles to find a second life as paving or even new roofing material.

Just as you can recycle shingles, you can buy ones made of recycled material. Many recycled shingles are either reused asphalt or rubber from old tires. This kind of roofing is durable, getting its strength from its combination of materials, and are one of the most environmentally friendly options.

Recycled shingles can sometimes resemble wood, making them aesthetically pleasing as well.

Choosing the Right Material

There are upsides and downsides to every material, so no one roofing option is better than the rest. To find what works best for you, consider your budget, your home and your environment.

If you live somewhere with more extreme weather, you’ll want something more durable, like metal or slate. If your hometown has a milder climate, you can safely opt for a more vulnerable material like wood.

You should also consider the structure and material of your house. Clay and slate roofs work best with stone or concrete houses, both for their looks and for their strength, which can support the weight of these materials.

Naturally, you have to think about your budget as well. Slate might be easier on the eyes, but it will put more of a strain on your wallet. A roof with increased durability might be expensive, but it also may be worth the price, since it will last longer.

Regardless of what your situation is, there is a material that will work for you. If you find yourself needing a new roof, consider one of the many green options available.

The post What Green Roofing Materials Are Available Today? appeared first on Green Building Insider.

A common misconception about SBS, though, is that it only arises from older buildings. According to the World Health Organization, up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings worldwide are potential carriers of SBS. Today, many organizations have led a green building movement designed to help combat SBS. First, however, it is crucial to describe what SBS is and the factors that cause it.

What Is SBS?

Sick building syndrome is when a building’s occupants experience negative health effects when they spend time in that building. The most common symptoms of SBS include headaches, coughing, sleepiness, sore throat, dry eyes, dizziness and itchy skin.

Workers who spend eight hours a day in buildings that are not adequately maintained often report such symptoms. SBS symptoms commonly appear when workers return to the office after an extended break. To be able to combat sick building syndrome, it is vital to identify the factors that cause it.

Factors That Contribute to SBS

There are several factors that can contribute to SBS, such as the following.

1. Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) is a major contributing factor to SBS. Indoor air quality refers to the standard of the conditioned air that circulates throughout buildings, and indoor air is the air we breathe throughout most of our lives. The EPA estimates that Americans, on average, spend as much as 90 percent of their time indoors.

Inadequate ventilation can lower the IAQ of a building and lead to SBS. Buildings that have inadequate HVAC systems may not distribute air effectively to building occupants. Office buildings should provide a range of between 15 and 60 cfm of outdoor air per person to properly ventilate the space and maintain a comfortable environment for workers. This level of ventilation combats the buildup of carbon dioxide, which results from building occupants.

2. Chemical Contaminants From Inside the Building

Even if ventilation systems are cycling the recommended amount of air to building occupants, indoor air pollution may still be contributing to SBS. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, can cause acute health effects in those exposed to such chemicals regularly. Many everyday office items release VOCs, such as formaldehyde, through a process known as off-gassing. These office items include:

• Copy machines (toner)
• Cleaning products
• Carpeting
• Manufactured wood products

3. Outside Pollution

Along with inside sources of pollution, many harmful outside sources can impact the air quality of a building. If air intake vents are not placed in the correct location, outdoor pollutants such as exhaust can permeate throughout the building. Windows that are not properly sealed can also be entrance points for such harmful sources of pollution.

One incredibly harmful source of outside pollution is silica. Silica is a common mineral found in the earth’s crust. However, when it is pulverized, its particles become 100 times finer than a grain of sand. Respirable crystalline silica is created through activities such as construction and masonry. This airborne form of silica is toxic to humans and can cause silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease.

If offices or homes are located next to construction sites, such dangerous particles could diffuse through the building through air intake vents or unsealed windows. To protect building occupants from outside sources of pollution, routine checks should be completed to ensure the building is properly sealed, and HVAC systems are maintained.

Negative Impact of SBS on the Office Environment

Sick building syndrome has the potential to lead to severe monetary losses for companies. Workers experiencing symptoms of SBS have been proven to be less productive and have higher rates of absenteeism than healthy employees.

Studies have shown that productivity losses of two percent result from the presence of such symptoms. This loss of productivity equates to an annual loss of around $60 billion per year. Higher health-care insurance costs can also be attributed to SBS. To prevent injuries from SBS, intelligent businesses have taken a green approach both to building and renovating their facilities.

Ways to Make Your Building Greener

The green building movement has offered a path forward for companies to prevent their employees from experiencing SBS symptoms. Several different green measures should be employed to ensure a building’s condition does not negatively impact the health of occupants. Here are just a few ways you can make your building greener.

1. Increase Ventilation Rates

Increasing ventilation rates is one approach to improving the work environment, and installing operable windows is one way to accomplish this. Operable windows allow occupants to open windows so that outside air can be filtered within the building. To save energy, operable windows can be fitted with a switch to ensure HVAC systems turn off in that specific zone so as not to waste energy when the window is open. If operable windows are not integrated into the HVAC system, energy usage can rise as much as 30 percent. Increasing ventilation rates also helps to prevent carbon dioxide buildup.

If you’re worried about the cost of extra ventilation methods, studies have shown that revenue produced by higher productivity can offset the costs associated with increased ventilation.

2. Use Low-VOC Emitting Materials

VOCs are a leading cause of SBS. Companies must make a concerted effort to avoid artificial building materials that emit high levels of VOCs. Using more sustainable products, such as green cleaners, helps to ensure that IAQ remains high. Although the initial cost of low-VOC items may be higher, it has been shown that gains achieved from creating a more comfortable work environment offset these costs.

3. Incorporate Interior Landscaping

A simple yet effective approach to improving conditions inside the building is to grow plants. Plants can improve IAQ levels and filter out carbon dioxide. Additionally, plants such as dracaena, help remove VOCs from the air. Interior landscaping can also reduce stress among employees.

4. Become LEED Certified

A certification known as Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) was created to help organizations implement impactful green building solutions. The U.S. Green Building Council sponsors the LEED Certification and offers resources for companies on how to construct green buildings.

Scorecards are also provided to companies to grade their progress on meeting LEED standards.  Different grades are issued based on a company’s selected methods. An accreditation from LEED signals that companies are taking a stand to work toward a more sustainable future.

Go Green and Help Your Employees Thrive

By employing green building strategies, companies can help mitigate the costs associated with sick building syndrome. Additionally, when you put these green methods to use in your building, you can create a healthy place for your employees to work and thrive.

The post How Greener Buildings Can Reduce Sick Building Syndrome appeared first on Green Building Insider.

More homeowners and renters want sustainable abodes, and business owners desire increased revenue from energy-saving buildings. Building certifications such as LEED, BREEAM and Green Globes grow in recognition as contractors dive into sustainability head-first. The construction industry is listening to the public’s concerns, and they’re rapidly adapting to address these points.

The energy-intensive materials of yesteryear have faded in favor among environmentalists, and the general public is following. Attractive and sustainable solutions swoop in to replace them. Though many ideas exist — some current and some old — the construction industry favors a few in particular. Here is a list of seven sustainable building materials construction companies often use.

1. Bamboo

Bamboo resists pests and disease, making it a stress-free option for building owners — no termites means fewer bills to pay. It’s more durable than concrete, providing a sturdy structure for frames and walls. Bamboo’s lightweight quality makes foreign transportation less fuel-intensive, although there are a few species native to North America. It also grows quickly, which allows for abundant harvesting — some types shoot up to three feet within 24 hours.

Green buildings often feature bamboo in flooring, walls and cabinets. In locations with limited access to steel, builders use it to reinforce concrete slabs, adding an extra layer of strength.

2. Reclaimed Wood

Rustic chic enthusiasts, this one is for you. Building with reclaimed wood involves reusing preexisting wood and restructuring it for a new purpose. If you’ve been to a vintage store, you’ve seen plenty of dressers and chests made of this material. Contractors find it equally convenient for construction projects, as it provides durability along with charm and low cost.

Reclaimed wood possesses a lower embodied energy than fresh wood because it doesn’t undergo the cutting and curing process. A percentage of lumber is always lost during cutting, but this can go towards creating engineered wood. Reclaimed wood also decreases deforestation and allows trees to grow to proper maturity before their eventual harvest.

You’ll most often find reclaimed wood in support beams, countertops, shelving and flooring.

3. Precast Concrete

Precast concrete slabs are recyclable — construction workers make them with locally mined or recycled materials. Their production requires less energy than pouring concrete on-site, and they offer fewer chances for structural cracks and errors. These slabs arrive at construction sites according to predetermined specifications, which saves a tremendous amount of time and energy. Efficiency is a requirement at many construction sites, and precast concrete fits the bill.

The strength of concrete slabs functions well in constructing bridges, underground infrastructure and pavement. Along with its toughness and fire resistance, it also absorbs sound, making it ideal for places like libraries and hospitals.

4. Cork

Now you can have the perfect home aesthetic to match your wine collection — who would’ve thought? Construction companies commonly use cork as a flooring solution, though it also works as insulation. It’s fire-resistant, impenetrable and liquid-proof, which saves the hassle of constant upkeep. It also has excellent thermal and acoustic absorption, making it for great blocking out sound and holding in heat.

Cork grows on trees that regenerate their bark, which leaves them healthy and ready for the next harvest. These trees primarily exist in the Mediterranean, which can make fossil fuel emissions higher. It makes up for this with its lightness, though, by reducing the energy needed for transport.

5. Steel

Metal is one of the most durable building materials of them all. You see it in towering skyscrapers, winding railroad tracks and sturdy bridges every day. The possibilities of this material are endless, and luckily, steel doesn’t require a ton of energy to produce. The carbon footprint of steelmaking has decreased by 37% since 1990, and engineers continually find ways to streamline the process.

Once a metal structure reaches the end of its purpose, builders can deconstruct it and recycle it for new initiatives. Steel is unique in its ability to be reused forever. Ninety-three percent of structural steel in the U.S. consists of recycled metal, which proves how versatile this material is.

6. Non-VOC Paint

Many paints and varnishes contain chemicals called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These are irritating at best and deadly at worst, and their concentration rises indoors. Before you give up your painting hobby for good, though, know that non-VOC paints exist. Developers are starting to use these inside green buildings instead of toxic paints. You’ll also find an abundance of low-VOC varnishes at your local department stores, but this label can be ambiguous. How much is “low” without a specific number?

Using non-toxic paint can even reduce the need to run the AC to cycle chemicals out of the air, which saves money and energy.

7. Wool

Sheep’s wool serves as a common substitute for more toxic insulation types. It grows faster than cotton — meaning higher production — and it doesn’t degrade like straw does. The most sustainable manufacturing processes come from New Zealand. Water efficiency, flock health and energy conservation are paramount on New Zealand sheep farms. The nation’s care and attention to detail has secured their position as a giant in the wool making industry.

Head to the nearest home goods store, and you’ll likely find a wool rug or two. It’s become a favorable solution for rugs and carpeting due to its ability to purify indoor air. Wool absorbs nasty particles and contaminants and prevents them from reentering the atmosphere, leaving you with cleaner oxygen.

Constructing Greener Futures Through Innovation

Green building materials prove their durability and efficiency in countless ways. More construction companies and consumers will reap the benefits of sustainable building as businesses make the switch. Soon, it’ll be commonplace to uphold eco-friendly initiatives in the comfort of your home.

The post 7 Most Popular Green Building Materials appeared first on Green Building Insider.

This focus on creating green buildings is admirable and necessary. However, construction professionals can’t afford to prioritize the planet over the safety of occupants. Safety and sustainability can go together, but only if builders pay attention to both of these elements at the design stage.

Sustainability and Fire Safety

Fire safety is a top concern for today’s builders. Most countries have fire safety inspectors who ensure that all buildings meet the minimum requirements for fire safety. But even when a building’s materials don’t violate any laws, they can still pose a risk to firefighters.

Researchers from Worchester Polytechnic Institute received a $1 million grant to continue earlier research that showed the potential hazards of some green materials.

For example, lightweight engineered lumber uses fewer materials than conventional lumber, and many professionals view it as an eco-friendly option. However, the material is also more likely to collapse during a fire if it’s part of the flooring. Researchers also brought up the potential for electrocution by solar panels.

Solar panels make things difficult for firefighters because they often have independent power sources. That may mean that cutting off the main power for a burning home doesn’t eliminate the risk of active electricity associated with solar panels. Moreover, the location of solar panels may prevent fire crews from cutting holes in a roof to help smoke escape.

Some eco-friendly buildings also have a minimalist design to reduce waste. It may look chic and inspire occupants to do more with less, but the simplified design might not have as many barriers in place to contain fires.

For example, many apartments, hotels and hostels in the United Kingdom have fire doors in communal areas such as corridors. The goal of a fire door is to keep flames in a smaller area rather than letting them spread to places where they endanger more occupants. People who aren’t familiar with these designs might think it’s wasteful to have so many doors, but they don’t realize that they ultimately promote fire safety.

Ensuring a Safe Water Supply

Construction professionals need to ensure their structure meets fire safety standards, but that isn’t their only responsibility. They also need to equip their building with basic conveniences like running water. To that end, it’s crucial to keep health concerns in mind, such as preventing Legionella pneumophila outbreaks. Legionella is a type of water-borne bacteria that can live in things like decorative fountains or showerheads.

According to research, up to 70% of buildings in the U.S. that are taller than three stories may have Legionella issues. Also, scientists at Purdue University found that low-flow plumbing systems could promote the multiplication of dangerous pathogens, including Legionella pneumophila.

Part of the problem is that the flow rates have gone down while the diameter of plumbing pipes have stayed the same. That means that water can age in the pipes, making it potentially contaminated by the time it reaches a consumer. This information will aid builders and other decision-makers in using low-flow systems to reduce the risks.

If building designers want to address an occupant’s need for clean, fresh water while also being eco-friendly, they might consider adding something to a public area of a building, such as the lobby. Dasani is testing a water dispenser that gives still or seltzer water to people who bring bottles to fill. It’s one of many strategies the brand is using to address the issue of plastic waste.

Uncertain Effects of New Materials

Designing a fire-safe building involves many aspects that people can see, such as the number of exits. But protecting a building from a future fire also requires retardant materials. For example, there are special bricks containing fire-retardant materials, and some of the fabrics or fillings used to make couch cushions also have those same characteristics.

Research has shown that some flame-retardant materials have an adverse effect on the environment. So engineers came up with “better” alternatives. However, a recent study from the American Chemical Society suggests that the newer option also has a negative impact.

More specifically, a supposedly superior option called “polymeric flame retardant” is less likely to enter biological cells or the food chain. Unfortunately, researchers found that it can break down into harmful compounds after exposure to excessive heat or ultraviolet light. The team clarified that this could present issues if using the material to insulate a hot attic or when discarding the material at a landfill.

This finding illuminates a larger challenge as well: It’s often impossible to know the long-term effects of newer products.

For example, scientists have made substantial headway in creating eco-friendly plastics, a positive development considering how dependent modern society is on the material. But is it possible that these new plastics could introduce hazards as they age? Absolutely. The trouble is that people can usually only speculate until the newest options reach the point of mainstream, long-term use.

Worker Safety and Green Buildings

Construction work can be dangerous, even if laborers have the necessary training and follow appropriate procedures. That said, research has shown that green construction can be especially hazardous. A study from 2012 focused on several case studies associated with LEED-certified buildings. It found that people on those projects worked near electrical currents, at heights and near unstable soil more often than people working on non-LEED jobs.

Then, a 2018 study collected data from 30 construction companies in Singapore. It found a higher accident rate for green building projects versus conventional ones. There are undoubtedly many variables at play that may cause a rise in safety risks. Since some green building materials and techniques are relatively new, people don’t have adequate experience working with them.

Another possible issue could be the limited time frames in which construction workers have to complete green building projects. Tight schedule requirements stem from both the increased interest in green building projects and the frequent instances of governments setting net-zero emissions targets by particular deadlines.

If construction company owners and project managers are too focused on profit, or they feel pressure from deadlines, some of them may sacrifice safety. Even if sustainable buildings reach completion under budget and on schedule, worker safety could still be at risk.

Making adequate training mandatory and setting manageable timelines for sustainable projects could both keep a project safer while still meeting the demand for eco-friendly buildings. Companies should also try to specifically hire people who have ample experience with green building practices.

Safety Is Just as Important as Sustainability

A growing number of people recognize the need for green buildings. It’s important, of course, but it’s equally essential to keep builders and occupants safe and secure.

The post The Intersection (And Challenges) of Green Buildings and Safety appeared first on Green Building Insider.

On the other side, polish done imperfectly can cause the floor to lose its beauty as well. This is why the polish and the technique used has to be carefully selected so as to modify the floor in a positive manner.

There are a few categories into which the wood polishing methods are divided into based on the type of protection it offers. Some can be simply dissolved using the base liquid it was formed from and get removed easily. Some others are harder to remove and will require an external agent like air or chemicals to help remove of the polish. Hence the second type of polish is considered to give a significantly stronger layer of protective coating to your wooden floor.

While there are several reasons that may lead your floor to require restoration, Christoff van der Merwe from Major Oak Polishing says that dragging chairs or furniture is a leading cause of damaged wood floors. In this article, let’s explore the different types of polishes available in the market and discuss their advantages and disadvantages so that you can choose easily.

Advantages of polishing your wooden floors

There are several benefits to having your floors polished every few years. Here are a few advantages to encourage you to do so.

• Hardiness: Polishing can reduce wear and tear and also increase the longevity of your wooden flooring. The polish acts as a barrier between scratches as it acts as a barrier surface.
• Stain resistance: As the polish acts as a barrier, it protects the flooring from any spilled hot coffee or anything similar.
• Beat the allergies: If you have breathing problems such as asthma, opting for wooden flooring reduces any dust flow and ensures the air stays clean and healthy.
• Appearance: Polishing can give your floors a new face and let them shine. It additionally reduces scratches and glitches on the surface as well, giving you all the more reason for regular polishing.

Wax Polish

Wax polish is a type that is highly preferred by workers due to the reason that it gives a glossy finish to the surface while being affordable simultaneously. This polish has its solvent as turpentine oil and is an amalgamation of wax and the solvent. The wax used can be carnauba wax, beeswax or paraffin as well.

The advantage of wood wax is the fact that it has a very simple application process and the result it produces will be significantly visible. The coating done is also low friction and hence dust will not settle on it and destruct the shine of the furniture. It is also chosen due to the ease of maintenance of the polish.

French polish

When the floor requires more gloss, the French polish technique is adapted. A mixture of shellac dissolved in an absorbent solvent, it is highly useful when it comes to polishing ornamental figures such as circles. This polish is also applied as several coats.

The biggest advantage of French polish is the fact that it holds a lot more shine and finesse as compared to wax while remaining economic. They polish can be done easily and can be cleaned easily with a soft cloth.

Melamine polish

Melamine polish strengthens the surface and makes it more durable and increases the resistivity. It offers a cellulose finish which is paired with a sealer.

This polish is not only extremely durable, but it is also water resistant in nature causing fewer chances for damage. To clean it, all you have to do is run a cloth over the surface and the luster will be restored. It can also act as a layer of protection and the filing is harder and does not come off easily.

PU polish

A polish that can be used on the interior and exterior units of furniture, it is sprayed on to the surface. It gives a glossy and lustrous effect to the surface of the product giving it a fine finish. This polish comes in 3 forms which are gradients of the gloss factor.

This polish won’t smell and has an unmatched glossy finish and hence PU polish is one of the most superior techniques of polish you can select for your wooden flooring to have a long and healthy life.

The post Benefits Of Having The Surfaces Of Your Wood Floor Restored appeared first on Green Building Insider.

Stylish and Eco-friendly Wood Materials

No need to enforce an infinite ban on wood products to maintain your green living standards! There are now sustainable wood products on the market that allow you to indulge in beautiful wood finish without the guilt trip. Using an environmentally friendly process, sustainable wood products, such as floors, interior wall paneling, house wood siding and more, are treated with a safe solution that enhances their color while also significantly increasing durability. A stronger surface means fewer repairs, ultimately decreasing the amount of materials used for maintenance. What a great advancement in eco-friendly products that offer stylish design elements!

Custom and DIY Green Wall Décor

Sometimes the finishing touches of a room can prove the most difficult choices. Standard arrangements offered in home décor stores can be tempting, but they often fall short of green living goals and personal style preferences. One way to spruce up your interior is with a custom canvas decoration that expresses your unique style and splashes the room with real personality. Big prints on canvas can create a focal point in an interior design plan and can also tie together some of the contrasting colors found within a room. Instead of store-bought decorations that are often mass-produced, generic and unmemorable, DIY wall décor can capture the essence of your green lifestyle with a personal touch. Selecting matte finishes, dimensions, colors and placement can be a fun, creative project to share with a family member or to complete yourself as a hobby. Create the precise look that you love so your interior finish provides the ideal ambiance for home relaxation.

Stone Veneers

Another exciting interior finish that racks up significant style points is the application of veneer stone materials. Stone veneers are wonderful for creating fascinating interior design elements, including applications as accent walls, bathroom and shower features, spa-style vanities and more. One of the most impressive applications is the stone veneer fireplace—a beautiful use of natural stone design that can create a visual frame for the fireplace and mantel. Stone veneers come in an impressive assortment of geometric patterns and layouts. Also, a variety of glaze finishes is available, from natural gray, ash and brown finishes to more daring colors, like ruby red and aqua blue. Whether you’re going for an upscale or rustic look, veneer stone materials are a wonderful resource, allowing creativity and sustainability to play a part in your interior finish.

Out-of-the-box Ideas for Accent Walls

Accent walls are all the rage, and it’s no surprise, considering they add a visual focal point for the interior living space. Rather than going with a standard approach of painting a wall in a contrasting color, go with an out-of-the-box idea, such as the addition of fiber cement panels. This alternative approach can bring so much more than simple color contrast, including texture variance, durable wall protection and additional ambiance evoked by the material. In addition to these aesthetic aspects, fiber cement is more durable than traditional siding, meaning less waste is going into landfills.

Fiber cement products can achieve almost any look, whether you’re going for the rustic and comforting appeal of natural wood or the cosmopolitan allure of striking colors and unexpected detailing. Designers have even used fiber cement products as stylish finishing décor on the ceiling for a truly remarkable effect! Impressively versatile and low-maintenance, fiber cement products are a wonderful option for homeowners looking for a sustainable finish that allows for true creative expression. Because fiber cement siding is easy to install, it’s also a great resource material for new homeowners planning their first DIY projects.

If green living is a priority, be sure to select fiber cement products that are LEED-certified, developed under environmental considerations recommended by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) framework. By integrating fiber cement siding that meets stylish design elements and sustainable goals, you can have the best of both worlds in your next interior remodeling project!

When it comes to interior finishes, don’t settle for standard. Effortlessly integrate some of these stylish and sustainable interior finish materials into your next home remodeling project—you’ll be pleased with simultaneous achievements in style and sustainability.

The post Stylish and Sustainable Interior Finish Materials For Your Home appeared first on Green Building Insider.

While offices and warehouses are able to enforce practices overnight like going “paperless”, for construction and building sites, it can be more of a challenge. Luckily there are a few steps your site can take to ensure your business is working towards a much greener and environmentally responsible future – no matter what your industry!

Cleveland Containers, a leading supplier of shipping container solutions to the industry, offer some green advice for construction business leaders…

The material world

What materials you use, how you use them and where they are sourced from, will play a vital role in your eco-friendly construction practices. Current materials predominantly used in construction produce too much C02 during and after construction, which makes these materials unsustainable. Fortunately, there are more sustainable materials available and the list is growing as the industry adapts:

• Sustainable concrete – Regular concrete is actually responsible for 7-10% of global C02 emissions but there is an alternative. Sustainable concrete is mixed with recyclable materials like crushed glass and wood chips.
• Wool bricks – These clever bricks use non-toxic materials and are actually up to 37% stronger than regular bricks while being more resistant to corrosive elements.
• Paper insulation – A great alternative to chemical foams like fibreglass. Recycled newspapers and cardboard can be used instead and are fire-retardant thanks to the inclusion of borax, boric acid and calcium carbonate – all natural materials!

A question of demolition

Recycling shouldn’t just be reserved for paper, plastics and glass – demolition practices can contribute too. Countless tonnes of used concrete and steel are simply dumped into landfills every day when these can be recycled for future construction jobs. Contact your nearest industrial crushing facility who can crush these materials into dry aggregate for future use.

Household construction waste like carpet, tiles and ceiling debris can also be used in a variety of ways. Plus, you will save money by avoiding the costs associated with disposing toxic materials, which are a hazard to everyone.

Keep it local

By using locally sourced materials, you will be cutting down on the huge energy usage associated with transporting large amounts of materials over long distances. Cut down on your carbon footprint and get your hands-on materials quicker too with locally sourced materials.

Remember, you’ll also be supporting your local businesses and suppliers and using local materials is something your business can shout about in the press and be proud of.

Energy efficiency best practice

There are also several basics you may be missing on your construction site that can have a large impact on your energy usage and efficiency. Take a walk around your site or create “green champions” in your company who look out for the following on site:

• Lighting – Switch to high efficiency lighting anywhere you can on site which will also help reduce your monthly bills.
• Site accommodation – Ensure your staff rooms, cafeterias and other site accommodation have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of A, B or C. Prioritise insulation and natural light over artificial heating too.
• On site offices – The same applies to your on-site offices. Keep windows closed and doors shut when your heating is on, keep computers shut down or hibernating when not in use and recycle everything you can.

Accept the green challenge

The challenges of sustainability and green practices are felt very heavily in construction– perhaps more than in any other industry. Heavy material usage, transportation and energy are at the heart of construction and are unavoidable by-products. However, if every company begins to take small green steps the impact on our environment could. be considerable.

Credit: Shutterstock

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