Rainwater Retention Systems for Your Custom Home

As the world embraces sustainable living practices, the concept of green building has taken center stage in the construction industry. When envisioning your dream custom home, it’s essential to consider not only the aesthetics and functionality but also its ecological footprint. One such eco-friendly addition that is gaining popularity among conscientious homeowners is a rainwater retention system.

What is a Rainwater Retention System?

A rainwater retention system, also known as a rainwater harvesting system, is designed to capture, store, and manage rainwater that falls on your property. This system involves collecting rainwater from rooftops, driveways, and other surfaces, then channeling it into storage tanks or underground reservoirs, commonly called cisterns.

Collected rainwater can be used for various non-potable purposes, such as irrigation, flushing toilets, washing clothes, and even for some cleaning tasks. A filtration system can turn rainwater into suitable water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene, as was the case for this home where we recently completed a whole home renovation and addition project. Served by a well system, the home consistently dealt with low water pressure, which was becoming increasingly untenable.

Benefits of Rainwater Retention Systems

1. Sustainable Water Management: By using rainwater for various household needs, you reduce the demand on municipal water supplies or on your well, if you live in an area not served by municipal water. This sustainable approach helps conserve water resources, as well as supplements output from a well.
2. Cost Savings: Incorporating a rainwater retention system can lead to substantial savings on water bills over time. While the initial investment might seem significant, the reduced reliance on treated water can lead to noticeable financial benefits in the long run.
3. Reduced Stormwater Runoff: Rainwater retention systems play a pivotal role in managing stormwater runoff. Collecting rainwater prevents excessive runoff that can lead to soil erosion, flooding, and contamination of lakes, ponds, and mountain streams with pollutants from paved surfaces.
4. Mitigation of Water Pollution: By collecting and treating rainwater on-site, you contribute to the reduction of pollution entering local water systems.

Why Consider Adding One to Your Home?

For anyone building a custom home, integrating a rainwater retention system offers numerous advantages:

1. Environmental Stewardship: By installing a rainwater retention system, you demonstrate your commitment to environmentally responsible living. Your home becomes an example of sustainable practices that can inspire others in your community.
2. Independence from Municipal Systems: A rainwater retention system grants you a degree of autonomy from municipal water supplies. In times of water restrictions or shortages, you can still maintain essential water-dependent activities using your stored rainwater.
3. Long-Term Investment: While the initial cost might seem like an investment, the long-term financial benefits, along with the positive impact on your home’s resale value, make it a prudent choice for many.

Rainwater Retention and Green Building

Rainwater retention systems align seamlessly with the principles of green building, which prioritizes resource efficiency, energy conservation, and environmental sustainability. These systems contribute to green building practices in several ways:

1. Water Efficiency: Green building emphasizes reducing water consumption. Rainwater retention systems promote efficient water usage by providing an alternative source for non-potable water needs.
2. Site Sustainability: Integrating a rainwater retention system demonstrates your dedication to preserving the natural water cycle on your property and mitigating the effects of urban development.
3. Innovation and Design: Incorporating such a system showcases your forward-thinking approach to home design, integrating modern technology with environmental consciousness.

From our perspective as a Certified Green Building Professional, including a rainwater retention system in your custom home project is a smart, sustainable choice. It aligns with the heart of green building, reduces your environmental impact, and positions you as a steward of the planet’s resources. By harnessing the power of rainwater, you contribute to a more resilient and ecologically balanced future for your community and beyond.

More About Green Building

We have a library of articles dedicated to building green homes for you to peruse. The whole green building library is available on our blog, and these articles might be a good place to start:

• Learn ways to reduce your carbon footprint on our blog.
• Read more about our experience as Asheville green builders on our About page.
• Find your green comfort zone here.

When you’re ready to build a custom home or commercial project that will reduce your energy costs, we’d love to talk. Click the button below to contact us.