When we talk about sustainable materials, we think of ecology, health, design... We envision a sleek and modern environment that reminds us of our latest Pinterest saves. Sure, yes... but first, you have to get through the construction phase. Above all, you need to find a contractor who doesn't run away at the mention of the words "earth," "natural," or even worse, "ecological."
Indeed, it's been a long time since natural techniques and reuse were the norm in construction. The products most commonly used by contractors are often industrial, mass-market products with a not-so-great carbon footprint.
The problem is that these products are deeply ingrained in construction practices, and for a contractor, working with unfamiliar materials requires disrupting their routines.
Price, suppliers, implementation, dimensions, technical properties and performance, material combinations, methods of calculating quantities... All these factors may differ from the materials they usually work with, and they need to get up to speed.
As a result, it's not uncommon to see a contractor struggle or even inflate their prices in the hope of discouraging the client or architect. So how can you guide your contractor toward a more positive attitude? After all, they are your best ally in making your dream project a reality, so it's better to convince them than to rush them!
Here are some arguments to help you change the situation:
First of all, health!
Most conventional materials are harmful to workers' health: dust from industrial waste in plaster, itching and irritating effects from certain insulations or (petro)chemical products, VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and/or CMRs (carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic substances) affecting eyes, throat, respiratory organs, causing heart, digestive, and nervous system disorders, and having carcinogenic and mutagenic effects...
Working with natural materials, with minimal chemical additives, significantly reduces health risks for workers and the need for protective equipment!
It's not rocket science
Contrary to popular belief, the implementation of a so-called sustainable material is rarely very different or more complicated than its conventional equivalent. While some techniques—particularly with natural plasters—require a bit of practice, for others, the installation is identical. Most of the time, a careful reading of the manual and a little preparation are all that's needed.
Some material choices even save time! Dry screeds, loose stabilizers, insulating panels, or plasters that can be left exposed are all options that avoid drying times or painting work.
Anticipating the transition
Ecological awareness in construction isn't just for a privileged few. Public authorities continuously update their specifications, building demolition is becoming increasingly difficult, not to mention a European carbon tax that could hit carbon-intensive products.
Companies that anticipate this transition by training in the use of sustainable materials will be better equipped to face this inevitable change!
A commercial opportunity
Currently, companies specializing in sustainable materials are few and therefore more expensive. A contractor who knows sustainable materials and is comfortable using them will be sought after by an eco-conscious clientele, which is growing by the day. This is an opportunity to stand out by offering a valued service!
The advantage of buying local
While conventional materials are subject to price increases, materials from local sources maintain stable prices.
In fact, they are less affected by global market fluctuations. As a result, sustainable materials are becoming just as, if not more, competitive, allowing contractors to secure a reasonable profit margin on the purchase price.
Is your contractor still hesitant? Keep in mind that we support contractors in understanding, purchasing, and implementing sustainable materials!
Any questions or need more information? Contact us at hello@naturamater.eu 😉