Over the last five to ten years, an increasing number of houses are being constructed with eco-friendly blocks instead of those made with regular concrete. Not only are they durable, but they can also withstand the impact of climate change. Furthermore, their presence can increase home value for appraisal significantly.
What makes property value increase:
1. Insulated concrete blocks are made from polystyrene or polyurethane foam and then filled with concrete. Introduced in Europe in the 1960s, these blocks are easy to stack, lightweight (they weigh 40% less than regular concrete blocks) and provide thermal protection. Houses in which these blocks are used are 15 to 25% cooler during the summer and warmer during winters. Their presence can be the best home improvements to increase value by 10 to 15%.
2. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) is a building material that contains air pockets within the concrete and this makes it 30 to 40% lighter than regular concrete. Available in the form of blocks and slabs, it provides thermal and sound insulation and is fire-resistance. Its presence can increase a home value for appraisal by 25 to 30%.
3. Straw bales have been sued for centuries to thatch roofs and building walls. This renewable material is usually covered with cement to make sturdy building blocks that are resistant to fire and decay. Straw bale walls can also be used in houses to create positions. Their presence is what home improvements add the most value by 10 to 12%.
4. Green blocks are made of concrete and covered with a plant-based slide. Mostly used on the facades of houses; they are durable, eco-friendly and low maintenance in terms of their cost. They are also effective insulators and keep homes cool during summer and warm during winter. These are what makes property value increase by 8 to 10%.