How Modern Home Designs Can Save You Money in the Long Run

Although the appeal of historic homes is often irresistible to prospective homeowners, there are plenty of reasons for utilizing modern home designs in one’s next custom home project. Over the years, the design and construction industry has benefited from substantial scientific contributions pertaining to the chemical properties of certain common building materials like shingles and siding. Also, progressive developments in engineering have helped to expand the architectural design options of today’s homes. Homes with modern designs usually are less expensive to operate and maintain, and they are in most cases built to be more environmentally friendly.
 

Durable Modern Materials

 
Advancements in roofing materials like those found in modified bitumen roofing are just a few examples of how improvements in building materials help today’s homes operate more efficiently which represents long-term cost savings. Modified bitumen roofing systems are asphalt based shingles that are mixed with latex like polymers that result in improved resistance to brittleness and cracking. The roofing material also has greater reflective properties that make homes significantly cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Additionally, homeowners years ago had to rely on expensive brick or stone siding for durable, easy to maintain siding, but today’s homeowners have a variety of vinyl siding options that are less expensive than brick or stone. They also have the styles and colors characteristic of wood siding without the work of periodic repainting.
 

Innovative Design That Works With Nature

 
There are times when architects and structural engineers collaborate to extend the limits of architectural designs. Instead of automatically settling for mediocre traditional designs, architects generate state of the art creations that satisfy structural engineering constraints. Also, structural engineers employ advanced modeling software that allows them to efficiently assess design feasibility based upon structural requirements and even local building codes. These new designs often make use of landscape features or other distinctive lot features to capture natural lighting, open up the design to highlight outdoor views and allow for greater airways. These features help homeowners save on lighting, heating and cooling bills.
 

Energy Efficient Windows, Fixtures and Features

 
Homeowners know that installing energy-efficient fixtures and appliances offers a good long-term return on investment most of the time. These products range from long-lasting light bulbs that use less energy to larger investments like energy efficient windows. The two basic types of energy efficient bulbs are light emitting diodes (LED) and compact fluorescents (CFL) light bulbs; replacement of traditional light bulbs with CFL or LED lighting options has the potential to save homeowners approximately $18 per bulb yearly. Making sure to initially install Energy Star windows often leads to long-term cost savings because the double pane, vinyl wrapped windows provide great insulation at major air passages. Professional installers such as Great Canadian Roofing and Siding can help you if you need windows and doors in Edmonton, but you should speak with pros to determine what will suit your household best.
 
 
With proper workmanship being equal, owners of more modern homes often realize greater cost savings over those operating older homes. The difference generally lies in the design and technology enhanced materials used in new homes. These modern designs can be enhanced by enlightened, environmentally responsible processes that result in additional cost savings.
 
Research
 
1. Roberts, J. (2003) Good Green Homes: Creating Better Homes for a Healthier Planet
2. Dickinson, D. AIA (2004) House On a Budget: Making Smart Choices to Build the Home You Want