Upgrading a home can be a rather challenging task. With so many new technologies and materials, you should have an expert’s opinion on what to use if you want to have a more modern and possibly energy-efficient home. However, if you don’t want to splurge on hiring an architect you can find out everything about some of the best materials for upgrading your home.
Plant-based polyurethane foam is a good choice
When you start thinking about modern upgrades, artificial science products will probably first come to mind. However, this time nature offers a fabulous solution to all of your insulation problems. Namely, as the better alternative for fibreglass, and similar options, we offer polyurethane foam which is not only safe but also made from natural products. Plant-based polyurethane foam is usually made from kelp, hemp or bamboo. It’s a perfect insulation solution because it offers moisture-wicking properties and is also heat resistant. Moreover, you’ll never have to worry about mould and pests if you decide to upgrade your home with polyurethane foam. You’ll get much better insulation than with polystyrene or fibreglass.
Rely on polycarbonate
If you’ve been hearing about polycarbonate, Lexan® and Makrolon®, you were learning about the same material. Some of the reasons we strongly suggest you use polycarbonate sheets when you decide to upgrade your home is because the material is a thermoplastic noted for its high strength, durability and impact resistance. It is very similar to acrylic because it’s clear and almost as heavy as acrylic. However, polycarbonate is more durable and outperforms acrylic in other areas. For example, you can use polycarbonate across a wider temperature range, and it spreads up to 90% of visible light. What’s more, it can withstand high impacts without you worrying it will break or crack.
Go for structural insulated panels
Are you looking for both a fire-resistant solution that won’t cost you a fortune? If so, you should consider structural insulated panels. They’re made from a layer of foam insulation that is inserted between cement or plywood panels. Not only will it protect your home from fire hazards, but it will be a wonderful solution for upgrading floors, basements, foundations, and it’s suitable for load-bearing walls. If you start doubting your decision, just know that by choosing structural insulated panels, you’ll significantly lower your utility bills. Feel free to consult a professional services company for more information and all the benefits.
Try vegetative roofing systems
In the sea of suitable home upgrade materials, you should also think about using a vegetative roofing system. So-called “green” roofs will provide you with long-term resilience. What’s more, they’re a great solution to keeping water out of a residence. They’re also very successful at reducing stormwater run-off, decrease run-off related pollution in waterways as well as reduce stress on urban sewer systems. Did you know that some systems can also prolong a roof’s longevity? Not only that, but they can also increase energy efficiency because of it. All of that is possible thanks to waterproofing membranes that are used in green roofing systems. Namely, they incorporate PVC material science which then shields a roof from the effects of UV rays and temperature extremes. Those very often cause a roof system to contract and expand, but not with green roofs. If you install a new vegetative roof, it can pick up as much as 17,000 gallons of stormwater per storm event. That quickly adds up to 1,819,000 gallons a year. Once you have the rainwater stored, you can later put it to better use and water the plants, which will reduce irrigation needs significantly.
Vacuum insulation panel (VIP) for smaller homes
Vacuum insulation panels are the next big step into the future of home construction. While currently, you can see them being used for commercial refrigeration units, soon enough VIPs will be found in every modern home. They include a textured silver frame that enfolds a core panel in an airtight covering. Due to its construction, homeowners can reduce heat loss to a minimum, making their future homes more environmentally-friendly. The air trapped in VIPs porous core material which is encased in an airtight envelope is eventually expelled and the envelope becomes heat-sealed afterwards. Thanks to the core material, the insulation panels cannot crumble after the air disappears.
Final thoughts
Remodelling a home is anything but easy. From choosing the proper materials to knowing who to hire to help you out, it can cause a lot of stress on you. However, if you take a look at the material suggestions we’ve made, you’ll have a fresh look on what to search for when you decide to upgrade your home. Make sure you hire professionals if you are not construction-savvy because it will save you time and money that you’d need to pay if you ended up messing something on your own.