What is the difference between a 7-star energy rated home and a sustainable home?

Sustainable homes and 7-star energy rated homes share a focus on eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, but they differ in scope.

Sustainable homes prioritise broader environmental considerations, while 7-star energy rated homes primarily emphasise energy efficiency.

Home Design, Orientation and Accessibility

Sustainable homes aim to minimise environmental impact by considering factors such as design orientation, accessibility features, and the use of sustainably sourced materials.

Design choices optimise passive heating and cooling, promote accessibility, and prioritise materials with low environmental impact.

For instance, Live Green Homes selects Weathertex for external

cladding as they are made from Australian hardwood, have no nasty chemicals and have a less than zero carbon footprint.

Construction process

Construction processes in sustainable homes prioritise durability and energy efficiency.

Thorough insulation installation and ventilated cavities enhance energy performance and longevity.

Live Green Home uses Californian Junctions in every custom home build to guarantee thorough insulation distribution throughout your entire home.

Additionally, having a ventilated cavity between the walls and external cladding is very important for airflow. This allows any moisture or condensation to quickly dry out.

Not only does a ventilated cavity help with the energy performance of your custom home, but it contributes to the longevity too.

7-star energy rated homes

The 7-star energy rating for new homes under the National Construction Code 2022 focuses on increasing the energy efficiency of homes being built, which in turn reduces the cost of living for the household. Key features include optimal home orientation, double glazing, and insulation to minimise heat transfer. Energy-efficient appliances, such as heat pumps and electric appliances, are favoured, along with rooftop solar installations to offset energy usage.

Live Green Homes integrates both sustainability and energy efficiency in its projects, sourcing sustainable products and employing responsible building techniques to create healthier, more sustainable homes for the future.

Contact Live Green Homes for more information on 7-star energy requirements or building a sustainable custom home in Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast or surrounding regions.