Do Sustainable Homes Cost More?

By Anne Balogh

Many homeowners assume that building green will cost more. But sustainable homes can actually save money when you factor in life-cycle costs, utility expenses, maintenance needs, and occupant health.

Building exterior walls using ICFs can save hundreds of dollars a year in heating and cooling costs. How much you save depends on the size of the house and climate conditions. The larger the house, the greater the savings. Homes in colder climates will save more in heating expenses, and those in warmer climates will have the lowest cooling costs. You can also install smaller heating and cooling equipment, which can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back into your pocket.


Reward Wall Systems.

Although the cost to construct an ICF home is slightly higher than for a comparable wood-frame home (about 2% to 4%), the added upfront expense is quickly paid back through the savings in monthly energy costs. This potential savings has become a key selling point with homeowners, according to PCA market research. A 2002 report found that 85% of homeowners would spend 1% more for an ICF home, while 23% would shell out 5% more. In 2002, nearly 15% of all single-family American homes were built with exterior above-ground concrete wall systems, with the percentage forecasted to jump to 25% in 2005.

Other ways sustainable homes can save money over time:

  • Using low-maintenance materials that will last longer (such as concrete vs. asphalt driveways or concrete roof tiles vs. asphalt- or fiberglass-based shingles) reduces or eliminates maintenance and replacement expenses.

  • Homes built with concrete walls and roofs often cost less to insure because they resist natural disasters such as high winds and fire.

  • The durability and long-term cost advantages of sustainable homes increases their resale value.

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