Top 5 Green Building Practices You Should Consider Today Posted by Best Access Doors Canada on 15th Apr 2025
Look around. “Green” is no longer just a nice idea—it’s quickly becoming the standard.
More people are paying attention to how their choices impact the environment. You’re seeing it in homes, neighbourhoods, and now, in how buildings are designed and built. From everyday folks recycling at home to architects and designers rethinking entire structures, sustainable thinking is everywhere.
If you're planning a project this year—big or small—now’s the time to get serious about green building.
Not because it sounds good, but because it actually works. It helps cut down waste, lowers energy bills, and creates better spaces to live and work in.
So, where should you focus your efforts?
Here are five green building practices that are worth your time.
1. Use Sustainable, Low-Impact Building Materials
What you build with matters just as much as how you build.
Choosing materials that are low-impact and responsibly sourced is one of the simplest ways to make a big difference.
Think recycled steel, reclaimed wood, bamboo, or concrete alternatives with a smaller carbon footprint.
These materials don’t just reduce waste. Many of them last longer, look great, and are easier to work with than you might expect. You don’t have to change everything—just swapping out a few key products can already lower your project’s impact.
2. Design for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Integration
A well-designed building uses less energy without even trying. Good insulation, natural airflow, and plenty of sunlight can keep the space comfortable while lowering energy bills.
You can also add renewable energy, like solar panels, to power things in a cleaner way. Even if you're not ready for that, it helps to plan for it now. That way, it’s easier to upgrade later when the time is right.
Another way to improve energy efficiency and building performance is by using access doors that provide both insulation and fire resistance.
The BAC-PFI Fire-Rated Insulated Access Door with Flange, for example, can meet your needs. It provides easy access to building components while contributing to energy savings and maintaining fire-resistance standards. This durable, fire-rated access door is built to last, offering a secure and practical solution for walls and ceilings.
Key Features
- Enhanced Fire Resistance: Rated for up to 3 hours in-wall applications, slowing the spread of fire for added peace of mind.
- Easy Installation: Built with a flange for straightforward mounting, this fire-rated access door is a hassle-free addition to your building.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel, including a 16-gauge cold-rolled steel frame and a 20-gauge galvanneal steel door for long-lasting durability.
3. Pursue Net-Zero Energy Goals
Going net zero is about using as much energy as you need but generating it all on-site. The goal is to balance your energy consumption with renewable energy, so your building produces as much energy as it uses.
Start with energy-efficient design, such as better insulation, high-performance windows, and LED lighting. These steps help reduce your energy bills while lowering your carbon footprint.
It might take some upfront investment but net-zero buildings save money, increase building value, and have a smaller environmental impact over time.
Plus, they’re built to last, making them a smart choice for today and the future.
4. Enhance Indoor Environmental Quality
The quality of the air and light in your building has a huge impact on comfort and productivity. Focusing on indoor environmental quality helps create a healthier space for everyone inside.
Start by improving ventilation with energy-efficient HVAC systems and using materials that don’t release harmful chemicals. Natural light can also do wonders—large windows or skylights help brighten a space, reduce energy use, and improve mood.
Investing in better indoor air quality and lighting makes your building more comfortable and can boost the well-being of everyone who uses it.
5. Implement Comprehensive Water Management
Water is a valuable resource, and using it wisely in your building can pay off. Effective water management helps reduce waste and ensures your systems run efficiently.
Simple steps like installing low-flow faucets and showerheads can reduce water use without sacrificing comfort. You can also collect rainwater for things like watering plants or cooling the building. Greywater systems, which recycle water from sinks and showers, are another great option for reducing water consumption.
With smart water management, your building can minimize its water footprint and save money over time. It's a practical solution that benefits both the environment and your bottom line.
Why Choose Best Access Doors Canada?
Best Access Doors Canada offers high-quality, customizable options designed to support your green building initiatives and meet various design requirements.
Here are five reasons why Best Access Doors Canada is the right choice for your next project:
- LEED Certified Options: Best Access Doors offers LEED certified products that help you meet LEED certification standards, supporting your commitment to sustainable building practices.
- Drywall Access Doors: Designed for easy installation in drywall applications, drywall access doors provide seamless access to building systems without compromising aesthetics.
- Recessed Access Doors: Ideal for creating smooth, unobtrusive wall finishes, these recessed access doors help maintain a clean, modern look in your designs while providing convenient access.
- Custom Access Doors: Best Access Doors offers custom access doors to meet your specific project needs, ensuring the right fit for any design or function.
- Architect and Designer Friendly: These doors are crafted with architects and designers in mind, offering flexible design options and ensuring easy integration into a variety of building styles.
Conclusion
Green building practices are all about making smarter choices that help the environment and save you money. You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with small steps like using sustainable materials, improving energy efficiency, and making your building more water-wise.
It’s not always about making huge changes overnight but making smarter choices that add up over time!