Sustainable Builder Blog

When building a new home, you have the opportunity to build it correctly from the beginning, saving yourself thousands of dollars. With some upfront planning, you can ensure that your home is ready for an optimized solar array, maximizing the output of your system and minimizing the installation cost.

Build Native CEO Lloyd Lee was proud to speak with the next generation of solar power supporters at two events in Central Texas: his daughter’s second grade class at Dripping Springs Elementary School and the annual Science Day at Eanes Elementary School. Getting out in the sun was both exciting and educational!

Thirsty Planet, a local Austin brewer, contracted NATiVE to convert an existing 50,000 square foot building into their new brewery and tasting room. This collaboration enables Thirsty Planet to dramatically increase their brewing capacity without sacrificing their commitment to sustainability and the environment.

A nonprofit birthing center in the impoverished country of Haiti was not even tied to the unreliable electrical grid. Build Native volunteers raised funds, flew to Haiti, and installed an off-grid solar inverter to provide solar power to the clinic.

The Cool House Tour 2016 features one Build Native net-zero custom home and two Build Native solar installations in Austin. The Cool House Tour is an annual, self-guided tour featuring energy efficient homes, produced by Austin Energy Green Building and Texas Solar Energy Society.

When building an energy efficient, net-zero home in Texas, it is vital to eliminate or greatly reduce energy loss with a high performance thermal envelope. Spray foam insulation, an alternative to traditional building insulation such as fiberglass, saves on energy costs and greatly lowers utility bills.

There are six key ingredients to a net zero energy home. Learn more about how to achieve net zero energy usage with proper orientation, responsive envelope design, rainwater collection, solar power, and more.

Rainwater harvesting and collection systems are good for your family in so many ways. Learn why rainwater is a better, healthier choice when it comes to your water usage—for you and your family, for the environment, and for your budget.

What’s inside over 90 percent of American homes, looks like cotton candy, and can kill you over time if not properly installed? Fiberglass insulation is the cheapest thing on the market, but introduces an array of problems.

While “green” is good, ultimately it is sustainability that matters. Something that is “green” may, in fact, not be sustainable. Cut through the clutter of green-washed philosophies and products out there vying for your attention and for your money.

Building design encompasses a holistic approach, from the spacing of studs to the spacing of shrubs. A well-built, quality house will save money in the long run through reduced maintenance and time costs. The home becomes an expression of individuality and a celebration of living.

Floor coverings have been cited as sources of contaminants as well as a significant burden on the health of the environment. Learn about good, sustainable flooring materials such as wood, bamboo, and concrete—as well as bad floor coverings that should be avoided.