Tag: sustainable

Architecture & Building

What are the benefits of Sustainable architecture?  

7th March 20230

Firstly, sustainable architecture is also referred to as green architecture or environmental architecture. It is architecture that seeks to minimise the negative environmental impact of buildings. Through improved efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, development space and the ecosystem at large.   

Why is sustainable architecture so important?  

With global warming increasing, it is important to create buildings that decrease the negative effects of carbon use and emissions. This is achieved via materials, construction and internal systems. Building and construction account for more than 35% of global final energy use and for nearly 40% of energy related CO2 emissions. 

Material impact and waste –  

The goal of sustainable architecture is to create buildings that have low carbon footprint throughout their life cycle.  

Every material used contributes significantly to a building’s embodied carbon footprint, as the manufacturing, transport and installation of materials produces greenhouse gas emissions.  

Furthermore, green architecture minimises the environmental impact and waste of materials by prioritising recycled and recyclable materials.  

Sustainable building features –  

  • Energy efficient  
  • Water efficiency  
  • Green roofs  
  • Stormwater management 
  • Solar power 
  • Recycling  
  • Landscaping  

Benefits of sustainable architecture –  

  • Conservation and restoration of natural resources  
  • Reduction in energy consumption and waste  
  • Protection of ecosystems and environmental biodiversity  
  • Improvement of air and water quality 
  • Competitive advantage  
  • Upgrade asset and property values  
  • Reduction in long term costs and dependence on traditional energy sources  
  • Minimises demand on local utility infrastructure  
  • Improve the living conditions, health and comfort of inhabitants 

Overcoming challenges –  

Finally, it is proven that sustainable architecture benefits everyone, from businesses, individuals, the economy and the environment. However, although there are benefits to sustainable architecture there are also challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the cost. While sustainable building might save you money in the long run, the materials and methods are way more expensive than traditional construction.  

Image: WOHA
Materials

The advantages and disadvantages of thermally modified wood

2nd February 20220

Thermally modified wood definition – 

Thermally modified wood is wood that has been modified by a controlled pyrolysis process of wood being heated. In absence of oxygen inducing some chemical changes to the chemical structures of cell wall components in the wood in order to increase its durability. 

How to modify the wood –

The wood is placed in a chamber and is gradually heated to 210 – 230 Celsius, and completely void of oxygen to prevent combustion.

The purpose of the wood –  

The bending strength of the wood is reduced during the heating process. So, thermally modified wood is not suitable for structural applications. It is commonly used for non-load-bearing applications such as decking, flooring, wall paneling. As well as ceilings, accent walls, and interior and exterior doors.  

the sustainability of modified wood – 

Going green has never been more crucial than it is now. The process of thermal modification involves zero chemicals, eliminating the harsh toxic substances, that are often in building materials. Sourcing the wood carefully and thoughtfully, while thinking about how to best optimize performance is key for sustainable growth.  

Advantages and disadvantages to using this wood –  

Advantages –  

  • Free of chemicals  

This process only heats and cures the wood. There are no harmful chemicals or toxins that go into the process. Chemicals in wood are dangerous to touch and breathe but you won’t have to worry about that with this wood.  

  • Sustainability  

The modification process will naturally create longer-lasting wood, which will lead to less deforestation in the future. Although, this is contributing to a sustainable building future. 

Disadvantages –  

  • More expensive  

As well as, the original lumber, you will also be paying for the modification process. However, the price will also depend on where you live and the type of wood that you use.  

  • Becomes brittle  

After heating the wood to such a high temperature, a popular complaint is that the wood becomes brittle. This has people wondering how stable the wood can actually be.  

  • Could burn faster 

Due to the low moisture content, the thermally modified wood could end up burning quicker and easier.  

Americana™ Thermally Modified Wood Decking

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