Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Construction

What is sustainable construction, and why is it important?

Sustainable construction refers to construction projects using renewable and recyclable materials while working on reducing waste and energy consumption during the process. 

Sustainable construction helps construction companies to reduce their total use of energy and raw materials by substantial amounts, therefore lowering their expenses as well. Since construction businesses are responsible for almost half of the carbon emissions levels of some countries around the globe, construction is an area of sustainability that cannot be ignored or overlooked. Sustainable construction requires systematic and efficient waste generation systems, and construction companies also benefit from these optimal systems. Also, sustainable construction improves the health and welfare of communities by creating energy-efficient, well-isolated, noise-protective living environments. On the other hand, the sustainability of any construction project is also highly related to the workforce and working conditions. As a project owner or manager, hiring from a diverse local workforce and creating equal and fair opportunities for everyone should also be at the top of your list. 

What are sustainable construction materials?

Sustainable construction materials should be durable, reusable, or recyclable or include a substantial amount of recyclable materials in their composition and have a low environmental impact compared to traditional materials. Materials like soil, adobe, wood, cork, bamboo, straw and sawdust are considered sustainable construction materials for being natural and not easily spoilt by extreme weather conditions such as cold, heat, or humidity. However, the way raw materials have been sourced also affects their sustainability. Remember, only some natural materials are sustainable as they must be sustainably sourced and produced in an energy-efficient way.

What are the 7 principles of sustainable construction?

There are 7 principles defined for sustainable construction to help construction businesses make their projects as sustainable as possible. The 7 principles of sustainable construction cover sustainable design, durability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, indoor air quality, water conservation, and sustainable building materials. These principles are considered the pillars of any sustainable building development project, and construction companies are advised to follow them from the earliest stages to the last.

What are the benefits of sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction is one of the most efficient ways to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. Sustainable construction methods help countries conserve their natural sources and protect air and water quality. Undeniably, these bring many benefits for everyone by increasing the public's well-being. Sustainably built work and living environments help everyone to save money in various areas, from utility bills to maintenance. Also, you create more diverse and inclusive communities by giving equal opportunities for a diverse workforce in your sustainable construction projects as a part of your sustainability efforts. 

What are the elements of a green building?

Green building partly refers to the materials used during the construction process. However, more than using natural, sustainable materials is needed to label a construction as a green building. It also has to have certain elements. These elements are mostly energy-efficiency solutions such as energy-efficient windows and aluminum weather-resistant insulated access panels. Other solutions to generate energy more sustainably, like green roofs or solar power are also among the elements that make a building green.

Why should my business care about sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction is not only beneficial for the environment but there is a lot to gain for construction companies and end users as well. To start with, by opting for sustainable construction methods, you are investing in your business in a way that will bring you long-term gain not only financially but also by increasing brand awareness and favorable brand positioning among competitors. The working and living spaces you build using sustainable materials with a long-term sustainability focus will resonate with your clientele as cost efficiency and lower maintenance expenses. This influence will make your offering more popular in the market, and you'll also contribute to a greener future by changing people's living spaces and promoting healthier living.

How can Intengine help my business with sustainable construction?

Intengine is the place to establish partnerships for your sustainable construction project. You can be at the planning stage of a project or thinking of increasing efficiency in your existing building or repurposing an old one. Regardless of the nature of the project, you can be sure to find everything you need for your next project, from architecture and design to roofing and plumbing, at Intengine’s directory.

What are sustainable construction methods? What is the most sustainable method of construction?

There are many sustainable construction methods that construction companies employ for their projects, depending on the areas to improve or the requirements of a specific project. However, some of these methods apply to all types of projects which include:

  • -Opting for sustainable and recycled materials 

  • -Reducing material waste and controlling waste management

  • -Adapting a reuse strategy that might be transforming old buildings or repurposing the materials from former projects

  • -Better management of construction sites, including applying better working ethics such as recycling or water-saving strategies among workers 

  • -Adapting energy-saving technologies 

Generally speaking, using eco-friendly materials and prefabricating them in a controlled environment is one of the most sustainable construction methods. It reduces the time and energy required to complete a construction process. However, when it comes to deciding which one of these methods is the most sustainable, you can’t choose just one. What increases the effect of sustainable efforts is the combination of the methods driven by the needs of your company's project. 

What are the 5 principles of green building?

Green buildings are more about efficiency and creating living and working spaces that allow people to live in harmony with nature. However, there are 5 principles of green buildings to help clarify. These principles include: 

  • -Livable communities

  • -Energy efficiency

  • -Indoor air quality

  • -Resource conservation

  • -Water conservation