The building industry is firmly set on the sustainability path with greater acceptability of green and energy-efficient homes, as well as growing realisation about the many benefits of an alternative lifestyle.
Housing standards worldwide are evolving to become more stringent and environment-friendly. Positive development, which is development that has net positive ecological and social impact, is a major goal in the housing industry.
For Wayne Kelly of Eco-Essence Homes, sustainability was more than just a foreseeable housing future. It was a good business opportunity and a job full of passion towards Mother Nature.
To the question what it takes to make a sustainable and energy efficient home, Wayne says optimal utilisation of building materials to avoid any waste is the best way to go about it. This is the reason Wayne chose Scyon Linea weatherboards from James Hardie Wall & Floor Products for his project. Having read all the technical documents about the product including the MSDS, Wayne was convinced that Scyon Linea weatherboard was the right product for his projects.
The tongue and groove joint option and the robustness of the advanced fibre cement composite deliver strength and efficiency in Wayne’s sustainable home projects.
Wayne was confident that the Scyon Linea weatherboards, once installed, would remain rock solid for years. He avoids bricks because of the process involved in its manufacturing, which is not as sustainable as fibre cement composite.
So is constructing a sustainable home an expensive affair? Eco-Essence Homes says it’s not. For instance, they do not put any air conditioners in their projects as they believe the in-house temperature can be maintained by applying the proper building science in the design. Over a period of time, the homeowner achieves significant savings in their monthly electricity bills. Installing Scyon Linea weatherboards is also an inexpensive process as it involves a lesser number of trades than bricks.
According to Wayne Kelly, sustainable and high performance homes require liveability and affordability; with James Hardie on their side, they have got that covered.
