Building a water-smart home in Nevada’s desert climate can be a challenge. This arid climate can make it difficult for plants to thrive and heavy rains can often lead to flooding. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to create a home that is both efficient with water use and resilient to its environmental conditions.
As you design your home, pay special attention to the materials used. Look for materials that can stand up to extreme temperatures and have a high resistance to fire, dust, and wind. Exterior shingles and soffit should also be weatherproof to resist mold and rot. Installing restorative plants and rocks can also help reduce water runoff.
When selecting appliances for your home, look for models that have power saving features. Low-flow toilets and shower heads, water-saving dishwashers, and tankless water heaters can all help conserve water. Investing in smart irrigation systems can also help to maintain your lawn and gardens while using minimal amounts of water.
Taking Advantage of Natural Resources
When considering how to design a water-smart home in Nevada’s desert climate, it’s important to take advantage of the area’s natural resources. Utilize windbreaks, such as berms and dense vegetation, to help protect your home from the strong winds. Look into a solar water heater for energy efficient hot water all year long. Natural materials such as stucco, stone, and brick can be used to protect your home from the elements.
Harvesting rainwater can also be a great way to conserve water and create a sustainable source. Investing in rain barrels or cisterns can help capture and store rainwater for future use. Incorporating light reflecting surfaces such as white roofing and awnings can also help reduce your home’s energy use.
Building for the Future
When creating a water-smart home, it is important to think ahead. Research types of landscaping plants that can survive in Nevada’s desert climate and the appropriate watering times. Invest in rooftop solar panels and ground-based solar collectors to generate clean, renewable energy.
In addition, consider including a water capture and storage system in your home. By using solutions such as permeable paving, rain gardens, and swales, you can collect and store rainwater to help with outdoor watering needs. These water capture systems can also help to reduce water runoff and protect the local environment.
Finally, design your home with future needs in mind. Choose high-efficiency energy systems and green building materials that can stand the test of time. By taking advantage of the area’s natural resources and building a home that is energy-efficient and resilient to its environment, you can create a water-smart home that you can enjoy for years to come.
Conclusion
Designing a water-smart home in Nevada’s desert climate can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you’ll be able to create a home that is efficient in its use of water. By using materials that can withstand the climate, incorporating energy-saving appliances, and taking advantage of natural resources, you can create a home that is both water-wise and resilient.