What is a Net Zero Home?
Did you know a Net Zero Home is up to 80% more efficient than a home built to conventional standards and is comparable in cost?
Net Zero Homes only account for a small fraction of all homes built, which is why you may not be familiar with them. But this is starting to quickly change.
As we become more aware of the impact we all have on the environment around us, many of us are looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint. We’re also constantly seeking ways to improve the quality of our lives. Net Zero Homes help us achieve both.
What is a Net Zero Home?
A Net Zero Home produces as much clean energy as it consumes and is up to 80% more efficient than a home built to conventional standards. Every part of a Net Zero Home is designed to work together to produce exceptional energy performance and comfort.
Why would you want to build a Net Zero Home?
There are numerous benefits to designing and building a Net Zero Home. Many of these benefits can be grouped into one of the following three categories
- Value: Net Zero Homes are not just about energy efficiency, they provide exceptional value. Because Net Zero Homes are built to a higher standard, they not only reduce your energy consumption, but they help protect you from increases in energy prices. The cost of operating and maintaining a Net Zero Home can save you a lot of money as a home owner.
- Comfort and health: Net Zero Homes are tightly built and well insulated. This reduces outside noise penetration, which provides you with a quieter indoor living space. Because they utilize advanced design practices, materials and building processes, they provide even temperatures throughout the home all year long. They also provide better air quality, reducing allergens and asthma triggers.
- Environmentally responsible: A Net Zero Home’s systems are designed to work together to significantly reduce your household’s environmental footprint. Because a Net Zero Home produces as much energy as it consumes, you’re doing your part to preserve natural resources and protect against climate change.
Are Net Zero Homes more expensive?
The cost to design and build a Net Zero Home will vary from region to region. In general, Net Zero Homes may initially cost 5% to 10% more than a traditional home. However, through good design, and advances in materials and construction methods, this cost gap is narrowing.
When you factor in the cost of operating and maintaining a home, a Net Zero Home can save you money. With the right plan and people it is possible to design and build a Net Zero Home that costs less to own from the minute you walk in the door.
Designing and building a Net Zero Home may be more affordable than you think. Many provinces and municipalities throughout Canada have energy rebate programs that can save you thousands of dollars. A reputable Net Zero Home builder in your local area should be able to assist you with any available rebates and determining a budgeting for your Net Zero Home.
Is a Net Zero Home worth building?
The short answer is yes. While a Net Zero Home requires a higher standard of construction and may cost more up front, long-term a Net Zero Home is an investment that can pay for itself.
Not only will you enjoy a home that is more energy efficient, provides a healthier living environment and greater comfort, Net Zero Homes maintain their resale value. So, before you design and build a traditional home or cottage, consider the cost and benefits of building a Net Zero Home.
Net Zero Homes continue to grow in popularity as more and more people learn about the benefits they provide and realize the cost is not as much of a barrier as they once thought. If you want a healthy, comfortable, and affordable home, it’s time to start thinking about a Net Zero Home.
Request a Net Zero Home consultation
If you are considering building a Net Zero Home or cottage in Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes or the surrounding areas contact Spotlight Home and Lifestyle. We are experienced at designing and building Net Zero Homes and would be happy to assist you on your journey to a more energy efficient home or cottage. Request your Net Zero Home consultation today.