The Role of Eco-Friendly Materials in Comprehensive Home Inspections

The Role of Eco-Friendly Materials in Comprehensive Home Inspections

Eco-friendliness is a term homeowners hear tossed around a lot these days. Many are aware that it is important for reversing the effects of climate change and helping curb rising energy costs associated with homeownership. 

However, it can also help the home stand out come inspection time. Home inspectors will be paying close attention to how well a property is positioned to perform in an increasingly environmentally-conscious market. With this in mind, keep reading as we dive deep into the role of eco-friendly materials in comprehensive home inspections. 

Enhanced Durability

The most eco-friendly building materials are durable and long-lasting. They will significantly lower requirements for ongoing maintenance, upkeep, and repair. Some of the most durable products to include in home construction include ICF framing, metal roofing, polished concrete floors, and engineered quartz countertops. Home inspectors will recognize that these types of materials are built to last and will maintain their safety and functionality for many, many years. 

Improved Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency standards are constantly rising in the contemporary real estate market. Not only are governments tightening building codes, but buyers want to save on energy bills and do their part to reduce their environmental impact. 

As such, the home’s energy efficiency will be put under the microscope at inspection time. The inspector will look at factors such as insulation quality, airtightness of the window and door frames, HVAC efficiency, and the age and condition of household appliances. The inspector may even perform a blower door test to assess the quality of the building envelope and see if there are any unexpected points of air transfer that may cause the home to perform below its advertised R-value. 

The basement will also be closely examined. While basements can be a great area to efficiently cool down during the summer, they do become a bit nippy in the winter. Modern heating for basements uses a series of subfloor heating mats that warm the area much more evenly than traditional forced-air systems–a factor the inspector will definitely consider when assessing the basement’s energy efficiency. 

Optimal Air Quality

Air quality is a top concern in the modern real estate market. Clean air and optimal circulation are crucial for limiting illness and triggering ongoing respiratory conditions in residents. 

The window infrastructure is a top priority along these lines. Not only will quality windows enhance natural daylighting and limit unwanted air transfer through the building envelope, but they will be easily adjustable to allow fresh air to circulate as needed. Inspectors will also assess the quality of the HVAC ducts to ensure that they are clean and not circulating allergens and dust. Regularly replace HVAC filters and install backdraft dampers for optimal quality. 

In addition, natural insulation products, such as hemp, cork, and sheep wool, do not give off harmful VOCs when exposed to fire or extreme heat.

Better Moisture Resistance

Moisture damage is one of the top causes of homes failing their inspection. Rotting walls and moldy roofing substrates are conditions many homeowners are unaware of until it is too late and the inspector approaches them with the bad news. 

By choosing eco-friendly building materials, such as fiber cement siding, aluminum gutters, and metal roofing, homeowners can get a major leg up on thwarting any potential moisture damage. It is also critical to promote optimal exterior drainage. If water pools around the home, there is a high likelihood that it will eventually seep into the foundation and wreak havoc in below-grade areas of the home. Make sure that all landscaping is adequately sloped away from the home. 

Consider upgrading from concrete driveways to permeable gravel options. Also weigh the advantages of modern exterior flooring. Many people compare porcelain vs concrete pavers for patios and fire pits, but composite options offer elite durability and seamless compatibility with slot drains for optimal runoff control. 

Increased Comfort

Livability is an important component of any property. Inspectors will be on the lookout for how well a property establishes comfort and enjoyment for residents. 

Many eco-friendly building materials score top marks in this regard. Expansive low-E windows not only reduce energy usage through natural daylighting and advanced thermal transmission properties, but they help establish a bright and inviting interior ambiance that any homeowner is sure to enjoy. Nonporous quartz countertops are not only easy to clean and maintain, but they provide a stunning stone aspect in which homeowners will take pride. 

Sound mitigation is another critical component of a comfortable home. Residents need to be able to relax and enjoy moments of peace within their property. Features such as decorative screens, acoustic wood panels, and modular partition walls all play a role in light, heat, and noise control for a more comfortable, eco-friendly interior. 

Choose Eco-Friendly Building Materials to Shine at Inspection Time

Modern homes must adhere to a higher standard of eco-friendliness in 2024–a fact that will undoubtedly come under the microscope at inspection time. From enhanced durability to increased comfort, consider any of the factors listed above to better understand the importance of eco-friendly materials in home inspections. For more of the latest insights into contemporary home inspection, explore the resources at Bee Sure Home Inspection Services for ideas and inspiration today! 

Author Bio

Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.