Pioneering a Thriving Future for Australia and New Zealand’s Building and Construction Industry
In a world clamoring for sustainable change, the building and construction industry holds the power to shape our future. It is crucial for companies within Australia and New Zealand’s construction sector to adopt sustainable practices as our collective future hinges on their ability to drive positive transformation.
In this blog, we will list some of the key benefits of sustainability in the building and construction industry and how new technology is enabling such change.
1. Save on maintenance and cleaning costs
Research studies, such as the one conducted by Lavern et al. (2021) referenced in “Maintenance Cost Saving by Reducing Cleaning Frequency,” demonstrate that next generation self-cleaning coatings significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of cleaning required. By minimising the accumulation of dirt and pollutants, buildings coated with these materials can maintain their aesthetics and reduce maintenance expenses, ultimately leading to long-term cost savings.
2. Reduction in waste
Waste in construction is a main cause for landfill concerns across the globe. Long-lasting coatings like ECOTONE match existing building materials to replicate the colour and appearance of concrete, brick, timber and metallic finishes. These materials traditionally require ongoing maintenance and eventually replacement. However, using long-lasting coatings on building surfaces significantly minimises waste as there is no need to replace them. It also reduces maintenance costs when compared to paints and other walling materials that need regular re-application.
3. Reduce the impact of of Carbonation in Concrete Structures
Concrete, one of the most commonly used materials in the building industry is prone to carbonation in the natural environment. Concrete is inevitably porous and deteriorates in form and appearance over time. At sufficient depth, carbonation can lead to corrosion of the reinforcing steel resulting in a weakened structure.
Research studies, such as the “Preliminary Experimental Study on the Effects of Surface-Applied Photocatalytic Products on the Durability of Reinforced Concrete” on ResearchGate, suggest that surface-applied photocatalytic products can reduce the rate of carbonation in concrete structures. These functional and protective coatings will extend the lifespan of concrete, reducing the need for repairs and replacements.
4. Achieve long-lasting coloured finishes on concrete
The use of coloured architectural concrete can be problematic. Over time the colour fades and concrete deteriorates. Long-lasting colour coatings can be used to transform ordinary concrete into architectural concrete. These remarkable coatings can match the appearance of any coloured architectural concrete, achieving the overall vision. These long-lasting colour coatings, like ECOTONE, never fade in colour and will protect the concrete from carbonation. They can be recoated at any time to change the appearance of a building, removing the need to replace the materials altogether.
5. Reduce Smog and Pollutants
Addressing air pollution is a pressing concern in urban areas. Sustainable construction practices, including the use of innovative materials like smog-eating concrete and self- coatings, offer a solution. The referenced articles, “Smog-Eating Roads” by PaveTech Inc. and “The Buildings That Clean Our Air” by TDMA, shed light on how titanium dioxide-coated surfaces can reduce smog levels. These coatings use a natural process called photocatalysis. They are activated by natural daylight, have the potential to transform buildings into air purifiers as they remove harmful matter from the air, improving air quality and enhancing the overall livability of cities. ECOCLEAN is a protective and functional coating that can be used to achieve this.
Wrapping Up
The future of Australia’s building and construction industry rests upon its resolute commitment to sustainability. From colour matching existing building materials to protecting concrete from carbonation and the adoption of self-cleaning technologies, every step taken towards sustainable practices is a step closer to creating a world that is environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially equitable.
We are constantly working towards more sustainable practices and products across our business. ECOTONE, combined with ECOCLEAN, delivers long -lasting colour applications and protective coatings to the building industry.
At ECOTONE, our motto is Stunningly Sustainable. We want to create solutions that last the test of time in visual appearance and environmental impact. It is better for people and our planet, and creates long-term value for our customers. This aligns with our promise to bring more Colour For Life.
To bring a sustainable perspective to your next building project, connect with us here.
