Whatever your position is on climate change, its effects, and environmentalism, we here at Home Porch & Patio Kits firmly believe that we all carry a responsibility to steward our planet’s resources well.

Increasingly, people consider the environmental impact of their choices. In 2024 and beyond, those considerations will play out in people’s backyards. Choosing materials for decks, patio covers, landscaping, and even sunrooms will focus on eco-friendly materials. 

We decided to laud the benefits of two foundational materials to our product line(s).

Aluminum

Aluminum is found in virtually all the product lines we represent.

You would not have to search too hard to see aluminum within the category of ‘green.’

First, from a recycling point of view, it is super-efficient. If you recycle aluminum to create another aluminum product, it would take 95% less energy than if made from its raw materials! That’s impressive! When talking about sustainability, few products enter the competition at that level. 

Second, the rage is to try to measure a product’s carbon footprint. It is a difficult job because so much of the ‘science’ is politically tainted. That said, in North America, where Canada exports 90% of its aluminum production to the US, most of it is produced using renewable and clean hydroelectric power.

Lastly, though driven by the oil & gas industry, aluminum production practices are increasingly exploring carbon capture & storage options. Advances in smelting technologies coupled with the industry’s push to educate both manufacturing and end users on the recycling benefits of aluminum it is quickly becoming known as a ‘low carbon’ or ‘green’ building material.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

You will find this material in our insulated roofing panels and in the walls of our Modular Sunrooms. It is used where thermal insulation (preventing a transfer of heat/cold) is needed. It is lightweight and long-lasting.

As a ‘green’ material, it reduces energy consumption for both heating and cooling. Known to carry an average R-value of about 4 per inch of thickness, its stability over long periods makes it highly efficient.

Finally, EPS products resist mold (safer indoor environments) and are easily recycled. 

Our EPS core materials laminated with aluminum and/or our TuffCore sunroom finish provide an effective and economical solution to helping you make the right choice for your backyard project!

So yes, aluminum and EPS remain a smart and green choice for your building materials!

We are proud to use them, and they will look great in your backyard!