While everyone else is looking at reducing the need of cement (concrete) by means of changing the cement itself (‘green cement’, using more recycle materials, geopolymers etc.); we reduce the need for cement plus reinforcement steel simply by changing the construction method. (see more…) and simply use up to 50% less concrete… while making your building stronger…
Reducing our carbon footprint; a sustainable construction industry in the Philippines.
The reality is that ‘zero cement concrete’ (using many fly ash etc.) or other replacements of cement truly won’t be as affordable as the ordinary cement we use now.
How ‘Green’ is cement (concrete) in the Philippines?
Well;
– It last, it’s durable. We don’t have to replace it for a very long time. Romans built with it.
– It’s strong.
– Inedible, termites don’t have it on their menu.
– A Locally-Sourced Material: Philippines has most ingredients like sand and stones plentiful, reducing CO2 emissions from transportation.
– To achieve the same structural integrity with wood you would need a lot of that.
If we simply use time as a factor, concrete would win over all other materials in sustainability, longevity, functionality, strength, and energy use, recyclables and emissions. Do we have a comparable alternative? Cutting down more trees??? No.
All our construction methods are focused on Green Building:
1. Insulated Poured Concrete
2. Solid Poured Concrete
3. Waffle Box Building
It all starts with ‘Sustainable Design’ by our ‘Green Architects’;
‘meeting your needs while thinking of the needs of the next generation’.
Here are some GREEN features:
– We promote the building of ‘Better and Healthy Homes’ (not bigger) and we prefer Quality (and character) over Quantity.
– Efficient use of energy; energy saving lamps, solar panels etc.
– Reuse of rainwater.
– Solar water heater.
– ‘Permanent Soil Termite Control’ without harmful chemicals.
– Reducing waste while building (less scaffolding wood, no wooden casting forms for column and beams as used in traditional hollow block construction).
– ‘Natural Building’; we use locally available materials to avoid transportation (= gasoline pollution) to lower the carbon emissions, reducing your carbon footprint.
– Optional insulation inside the concrete wall so you can use a smaller HVAC system; enjoy yearly savings with lower energy bills.
– Reflective surfaces and special paints help bounce light around, enhancing the natural light within your rooms.
– We design your house ‘ready for additions’; to expand your home to suit the needs of a growing family.
– We can apply ‘Passive Cooling’ and ‘Solar Chimney’ features to design your home for optimal cross-ventilation by installing ceiling fans, strategic placement of windows etc. creating a comfortable atmosphere in your home.
Of course we also address your particular needs and aesthetics;
– Which rooms do you spend the majority of your time in?
– What colors, shapes, or artwork do you enjoy looking at?
Just contact us for a free consult…
by Rob Sibonga
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