Recycling has become an important part of every industry and the commercial construction industry is no different. Now, so many of the basic materials used in almost every construction project are made from recycled materials.
Below we take a look at some of the many benefits of recycling materials in the commercial construction industry as well as six ways to use recycled materials. So, when you start a new commercial construction project, be sure to choose a team that cares about the environment too!
The Benefits of Recycling Materials In The Commercial Construction Industry
When it comes to using recycled materials in the commercial construction industry, there are several benefits. Not only do the materials work to reduce waste and protect the environment but they also add several cost and environmental benefits to the completed building.
In other words, these recycled materials help to protect the environment for the rest of their lifespan and not just during the building phase.
For example, some recycled materials are able to absorb carbon dioxide. As a result, they protect the atmosphere from greenhouse gasses omitted from the building.
Another example is sustainable insulation. This is a great addition to an office building as it assists with trapping heated or cooled air in the building. This means that you can save a ton on the heat or air conditioning costs as the office will be warm in winter and cool in the summer.
So, it’s clear that the benefits of using recycled materials go further than the construction process. While it does assist with building waste and the cost of materials, it is also beneficial to those who put the commercial building to use.
6 Ways Commercial Construction Companies Can Use Recycled Materials
Here are six different ways to use recycled building materials in the construction industry.
Roofing Tiles
Recycled plastic is a great alternative to slate or terracotta. It is far more cost-effective, works to reduce waste, and has several other benefits.
For example, recycled plastic roof tiles are a far lighter material which means that installation is easier and faster.
So, it requires fewer construction workers to assist with installation and saves you labor costs. But, just because they are lightweight doesn’t mean you are compromising on quality. Recycled roof tiles provide the same high quality as traditional roof tiles with a lower carbon footprint.
Concrete
Studies at MIT have recently shown that recycled materials like plastics can make concrete 15% stronger than regular concrete. The students took recycled plastics with exposure to gamma radiation and mixed them with cement paste.
This stronger, eco-friendly concrete is long-lasting and a great alternative when it comes to your commercial construction project.
Bricks
Another great use for recycled materials is for one of the oldest and trusty building materials. Now, commercial construction companies are using recycled plastics and materials to make bricks.
Using recycled materials to build bricks is not only good for the environment. Because of the makeup, the bricks are easy to lay and can be connected in a LEGO-like manner. This is super helpful when it comes to completing the build timeously and cost-effectively.
Structural Lumber
Recycled plastics have slowly started replacing wooden structural lumber. This is beneficial to the commercial construction industry for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures the protection of natural resources.
Furthermore, it is more environmentally friendly. This is largely because recycled plastic is not susceptible to rot or damage due to insects and the weather. As a result, it does not require treatment with pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
PVC Windows
PVC windows are another example of recycled materials put to good use. Not only are these windows easy to design and install, but they’re also super adaptable to ensure they suit the needs of your build.
By using PVC windows made from recycled plastics, you reduce your carbon footprint without compromising on quality. In fact, these windows have a lifespan of up to 40 years.
Insulation
Insulation helps to keep a building’s temperature regulated throughout the year. In other words, keep the cool air in during the hotter months and the warm air in during winter. This in itself helps to save costs and energy when it comes to air-con and heaters.
Now, insulation is made from recycled plastics which not only does the job, but it’s also easy to install and lasts longer than traditional insulation materials.
Conclusion
It is now more important than ever that we reduce our waste and its impact on the environment. The commercial construction industry has taken leaps forward to do so by using recycled materials.
So, if you are about to embark on a new project, be sure to choose the right team. Reach out to Chad Fischer Construction today to discuss how to proceed with your build in the most environmentally-friendly manner possible.