Although life will settle into a new normal post-COVID, the experiences of spending more time at home will resonate for years to come. Not only are homeowners thinking about home design and furnishings, they’re also exploring how the systems in their homes can affect their health and finances.
In the coming year, homeowners will be seeking out features for their homes that improve their comfort, wellness and efficiency, according to a new report from the National Association of Home Builders.
Among the top high-performance improvements most wanted from homeowners is improving comfort. To increase comfort, homebuilders are eliminating drafts, ensuring consistent indoor temperatures and minimizing noise in the home.
Common high-performance approaches to improve comfort include weatherstripping around windows and doors and installing high R-value insulation in floors, walls and ceilings.
The R-value is a measurement of the flow of heat in and out of your home. With a high R-value, the home is well insulated, which not only improves comfort but can also translate into saving money on heating and cooling bills.
Homeowners are not only focused on comfort, they have also expressed interest in improving wellness. Builders focus on creating an overall healthy indoor environment that includes preventing mold, eliminating odors and incorporating natural light.
A few of the common high-performance strategies to help improve wellness include installing bathroom exhaust fans, improving HVAC filtration, balanced ventilation and installing double or triple-pane windows.
Other common home features homeowners are seeking out are ways to improve their overall home energy use. To lower water bills, builders have installed features such as leak detection systems and WaterSense-labeled fixtures.
WaterSense-labeled products and services are certified to use at least 20% less water, save energy and perform as well as or better than regular models, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
To help lower energy bills, homebuilders install a smart thermostat to regulate temperatures and install Energy Star appliances.
“A connected smart thermostat can act as a smart home hub and work with lights, doors, water sensors and more,” says Rivertech Heat and Air owner Rico Loprinzo. “It adjusts to keep your house comfortable in the most efficient way possible.”
To find a local professional who can help you with remodeling your home, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga’s member directory at www.HBAGC.net.