A house with energy efficient floor plans takes care of the environment

Before thinking of designing a new home or trying to remodel the one you already live in, it is worthwhile to consider investing in some form of energy efficiency. If you do this, not only will you save on energy requirements but also a lot of money in the long run. In fact, it is a good time to invest in a renewable form of energy system in the house that will provide all the electricity, heat for water and the room as well as cooling requirements. The best way to go about doing this is to look at the whole house systems approach to energy efficient floor plans.

If you already have a house, look at conducting an assessment of energy requirements to assist in determining the improvements that can and should be made to the house and do this through energy efficient house plans. Energy can be optimized in a number of ways and through energy efficient floor plans through the techniques of designs and construction-

• The wall framing techniques: For a traditional wood framed house, the best way will be to reduce the use of wood or lumber and waste in the construction of the house. This will not only improve energy efficiency but also prevent cutting of forests for the wood.
• Roofs can be cooler if they reflect light and do not absorb too much heat from the rays of the sun. If they are painted in white or pale colors, the sun’s rays will be reflected better.
• Earth is the most abundantly available material to make energy efficient floor plans . The earth underneath your feet can be both cooling in summer and warm in winter thus reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. Some of the long lasting earthen structures are adobe, cob and rammed earth buildings. Each of these techniques requires a special mixture of earth and clay to form solid walls that are durable and stable. Other fibres that might give it added strength can be straw. To make it weather resistant, another stabilizer can be added.
• Wooden logs can be used to provide structure and insulation to the frame of the house. It can then be incorporated into an energy efficient floor plan.
• There is another method of making your home and each floor energy efficient – you can buy manufactured homes that require only assembly. This is especially necessary if you are looking to feature energy efficient options for new home or to make improvements for older homes.
• You can also take advantage of the rays of the sun and the climatic conditions in your area to provide heat in winter and cooling in summer.
• And lastly, the house owner can use both energy efficient and renewable energy resources inside the house to lessen the energy use.