In all parts of the country, eco-friendly features are taking the real estate market by storm as homeowners look to conserve resources and limit their carbon footprint. However, it is far from a stretch to say that homeowners in the Mile High City value sustainability just a little more. 

Surrounded by stunning mountain views and being intimately connected to nature like few areas in the country, Denver-area homeowners go above-and-beyond to make their homes as sustainable as possible. Therefore, if you are looking for ways to add some extra eco-friendliness to your property, keep reading for 5 ideas on how to add sustainability to your Denver-area home!

Durable Siding

One of the most noticeable trends in energy efficient buildings is the use of durable, low maintenance materials that do not require a lot of ongoing resource consumption. This starts with the siding, where sustainable homes are increasingly being sheathed with inorganic options that can withstand the snowy Denver winters and mile-high sun rays.

To this effect, fiber cement and steel log siding are excellent options for homeowners looking to create eco-friendly homes in Denver. Both materials are highly durable and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for busy families.

Fiber cement siding is composed of a mixture of Portland cement, cellulose fibers, and water. It is inorganic and non-combustible, making it resistant to fire, pests, and moisture. Fiber cement siding is also low-maintenance, as it does not need to be painted or treated to maintain its insulative properties.

Steel log siding is another great option for eco-friendly homes in Denver. It is made from 100% recycled steel and is highly durable, withstanding extreme weather conditions. Steel log siding is also fire-resistant and requires minimal maintenance, as it is pre-painted and does not need to be treated.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Impact-resistant windows are a crucial component of eco-friendly homes in Denver, where severe weather conditions are known to arise from time to time. These windows are designed to withstand the force of high winds and projectile impact, ensuring the structural integrity of the home.

In addition to their protective qualities, impact-resistant windows also offer energy efficiency benefits. They can help reduce the amount of artificial lighting needed in the home, as they allow for more natural light to enter. This reduces the strain on electrical systems and lowers energy consumption.

Furthermore, impact-resistant windows are often made with low-maintenance materials that can withstand the elements, such as structural steel frames and double-paned, impact-resistant glass. This can help reduce the need for frequent replacements, further contributing to the sustainability of the home.

Radiant Floor Heating

Radiant floor heating has been a popular method for heating basement areas for some time, but it is growing in popularity throughout Denver homes as a highly efficient and eco-friendly way to heat your home. It uses a series of subfloor electric heating mats that provide a gentle and consistent heat that rises evenly throughout the room. Unlike traditional forced air systems that can waste energy by blowing hot air through ducts, radiant floor heating delivers heat directly to the areas where it is needed most—your feet on those cool Rocky Mountain mornings!

A radiant floor heating system can save you money on your monthly energy bills. Radiant floor heating systems operate at a lower temperature than traditional forced air systems and because they don't require the use of fans or blowers, they consume less electricity. These systems can also be paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels, further reducing your carbon footprint and increasing your energy independence.

In addition to its energy efficiency, radiant floor heating offers several other advantages over traditional systems, including improved comfort, better air quality, and reduced dust circulation.

Engineered Quartz Countertops

Engineered quartz countertops are an outstanding option for a sustainable home. They are exceptionally low maintenance and rarely need to be repaired or replaced, which reduces the environmental impact associated with frequent renovations.

Engineered quartz countertops also require few resources for cleaning. A simple mixture of water and mild dish soap is usually all that is needed to keep them looking their best. This reduces the need for harsh chemicals and saves money on cleaning supplies.

In addition, engineered quartz countertops are resistant to staining, which further reduces the need for toxic cleaning agents. This can help to preserve the environment by reducing the amount of harmful chemicals that are released into the water supply.

Functional Exteriors

Maximizing functional exterior space is a great way to make your home more eco-friendly. By spending more time outdoors, you are leveraging nature instead of relying on conditioned interiors 24/7. This can reduce your energy consumption and help you save money on your utility bills.

For those in the Denver metro area who do not have a lot of exterior space, rooftop decks are a growing trend. Rooftop decks offer a number of benefits, including:

• Increased living space - A rooftop deck can provide you with additional outdoor living space, perfect for entertaining guests, relaxing, or enjoying the view.
• Reduced energy consumption - A rooftop deck can help to reduce your energy consumption by providing a natural cooling space during the summer months.
• Increased property value - A rooftop deck can increase the value of your home, making it a wise investment.

If you are considering building a rooftop deck, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you should make sure that your roof is structurally sound and can support the weight of a deck. It is often a good idea to put down some metal b-decking to the roof substrate to provide some shear support for the added weight of a rooftop deck. Second, you need to choose the right materials for your deck, such as low profile railing and durable composite or rubber rooftop pavers. Finally, perform due diligence to ensure that your deck is built safely, following all applicable building codes and regulations.

Get Started Today Toward Your Eco-Friendly Denver Home

Although sustainability is a nationwide trend, it is hard to argue that the scenic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains puts Denver squarely at the heart of the movement. If you are interested in eco-friendly properties in the Denver area or are simply looking for ways to make your existing property more sustainable to stay ahead of emerging environmental standards, contact The Steller Group today for the latest trends in Denver-area real estate.

Sam Willis is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise in residential and commercial real estate, as well as engineering and construction. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Sam’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource site.