Sustainability and energy efficiency are now expected for new construction projects. More and more, we’re seeing aging buildings get a facelift using greener, more sustainable methods. While incorporating these building methods into a construction project is gentler on the environment, it’s also easier on the budget for business owners and developers.
From reducing energy costs and construction waste to specifying recyclable materials, there are plenty of ways to make your building more sustainable. Here are just a few ideas to consider for your next project.
Reduced construction waste
Sometimes new construction isn’t possible or cost-effective. Renovating in place, however, can be a challenge, but it’s an excellent choice for reducing construction waste and costs. A simple way to update an existing building facade, a tension facade can bring a whole new style and identity to an outdated building.
This option has a minimal environmental impact and is far more affordable compared with demolishing the old structure and starting over. Any way to repurpose and work with existing materials will automatically be a more economical as well as eco-friendly choice.
Shade and energy use
Tensioned membrane architecture, which can include tensile facades, roof systems, retractable shade structures, and free-standing forms, are an ideal solution for passive cooling. As UV rays heat a building when sunlight pours through its windows, this increases energy use and cooling costs. Because these tension structures shade a building, they can block out those UV rays and reduce energy consumption from A/C units (and fading and damage to furniture and more).
Additionally, some translucent tension fabrics bring in natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and thus reducing energy use.
Water conservation
Every building needs some element of water control, and tensile membrane structures can help. Tension structures can protect from rain, but they can also divert rainwater from cascading down where patrons would walk. The water then moves through scupper drains and into a draining system that’s then collected for reuse for landscaping, which reduces water use and landscaping costs.
Greener materials
When you consider the life cycle of any product or material you use in your project, you’re likely to stumble upon many sustainable or recyclable materials during the specification process. Compared to traditional building materials, tension structures are made from fewer raw materials and are lighter in weight. Some PVC membranes are 100 percent recyclable.
Architects and designers may be interested in LEED certification for their project, and tension structures can contribute toward your goal. Use tensile structures for your next project, which can qualify for LEED certification in Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation in Design, and Urban Heat Island Effect.
In the Tension Structures Division of Eide Industries, we specialize in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of structurally complex and creatively challenging commercial, government, and prototype design projects. We provide expertise and support for architects, landscape designers, general contractors, and property owners to develop their custom tensile membrane project ideas and construct iconic structures.
Explore the options for your next project. Contact one of our experts today by calling 800-422-6827.