Once characterized by significant pollution and unsustainable production practices during the Industrial Revolution, the United States and other developed nations have increasingly prioritized environmentally conscious commercial construction methods over the past decade. While governmental regulations often initiated this shift, commercial enterprises are rapidly recognizing the benefits of “going green,” including reduced energy expenses and enhanced public perception. Even traditionally conventional businesses, such as the commercial construction industry, are discovering advantages in embracing sustainable practices.
As a local general contractor in Houston, we make it our business to stay on the cutting edge of technology and sustainability practices. We’ll work with you to optimize your commercial construction project, giving you long-term value and helping reduce your operational costs. Contact our team at Keeton Construction Services today to discuss your next building project.
The Expanding Green Building Industry
A large industry now focuses on making commercial buildings more environmentally friendly. More and more company architects are including green technologies in new building designs. Some common ideas for both old and new buildings are listed below, many of which we can work with you to customize to your building as your Houston general contractor.
Key Green Building Technologies and Practices
LED Lighting: Upgrade to LED lighting for significant energy savings and better light quality. It’s affordable and widely available. LEDs are crucial for reducing the high energy demands associated with cooling large commercial spaces in the Gulf Coast heat. Consider durable, vapor-tight LED fixtures for industrial facilities that need to withstand humidity and potential contaminants.
Solar Power: Install solar panels to cut energy costs and gain energy independence. Prices have dropped dramatically for this technology over time, and Houston’s abundant sunshine makes solar power a highly effective way to offset electricity usage and reduce reliance on the grid. Installation can include adding battery storage solutions to maximize the benefits of solar power and provide backup during power outages, which can be common during hurricane season.
Energy-Efficient Windows: Choosing windows with high energy efficiency will help reduce your heating and cooling costs over time. High-performance, low-E windows are essential for blocking intense solar heat gain.
High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Investing in high-efficiency HVAC systems is critical for managing energy costs and maintaining comfortable indoor environments, especially if the processes or equipment in your building generate additional heat that needs to be managed effectively with ventilation. Properly-sized AC units and corresponding equipment like chillers and dehumidifers allows your system to run at a more consistent level instead of reacting to surges in temperature, which should result in energy savings and lower maintenance for you. You may even want to look at options for smart thermostats and zoning systems to optimize HVAC performance and reduce energy waste in different areas of the building.
Vegetative Roofs: For something quite literally green, and depending on your type of building, you could even consider adding a living vegetative roof. A roof layered with soil and plants help cool the building in summer, warm it in winter, and improve air quality. It’s a relatively simple way to save on energy. Vegetative roofs can help mitigate the urban heat island effect prevalent in Houston and reduce stormwater runoff, a significant concern in a flood-prone area. For the most effective results, you should choose drought-tolerant, native plant species that can thrive in Houston’s climate with minimal maintenance.
Long-Term Value for Your New Building
Integrating green technology and sustainability isn’t just an ethical choice for a new commercial building in Houston – it’s a smart business decision. It’s all based on long-term value: lower operational costs through energy and water efficiency, a healthier and more productive indoor environment for occupants, and enhanced marketability in an increasingly eco-conscious world. By incorporating strategies like efficient HVAC, LED lighting, and optimized building materials, you get a high-performing, resilient, and future-proof asset that benefits both your business and the environment.
Partner with an Experienced Houston General Contractor
If you are looking for a Houston general contractor committed to quality and sustainability, Keeton Construction Services delivers innovative commercial construction solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a consultation!