Disadvantages of sustainable construction

Many believe the costs associated with green building make the building methods cost-prohibitive.

When utilizing green building cooling components, such as natural ventilation, consumers do not have a precise mechanism to increase or decrease exact temperatures: This is a difficult hurdle for many green building occupants to overcome.

In order to best optimize sun exposure, green building may demand structural positioning opposite of other neighborhood homes, causing friction among neighbors. In addition, differences in structural orientation will affect how natural daylight enters the building structure: with this in mind there may be a need to install more overhangs, blinds, or shades.

In general, green roofs are comprised of multiple layers including a vegetation layer, growing medium, drainage or water storage, insulation, a waterproofing membrane, and roof support. Since they are usually heavier than a traditional roof, builders need to improve upon the existing roof’s strength in order to install a green roof.

Labor law compliance requirements, in regards to green building, have not fully solidified. For this reason, it is advisable to seek experienced legal counsel in order to avoid costly liabilities.