Providing heat and power for our homes is becoming more and more expensive, and many are now looking for different ways to combat the issue. We all need to make our homes more energy-efficient.
Whether you are building a new home from scratch or just looking to improve the home you live in, the principles remain the same. Naturally, with a blank canvas such as a new build project, your options are somewhat more vast, but the main solutions remain the same.Here’s how to more your home more energy-efficient.
If you are renovating an existing property, insulation can be an easy way to prevent heat loss. Your builder/contractor will be able to offer expert advice on which insulation is right for your loft space and any external walls where it is required. For new build houses looking to be more energy-efficient, this should have already been dealt with by your architect at the design stage, as the type of design for your build will have an impact on what types of materials can be used. Nonetheless, there’s no home in getting an expert opinion.
Using the correct insulation will naturally make your home warmer, but you will need to find a way to circulate and extract the hot air to avoid damp and mould caused by condensation. This can be a particular problem in shower rooms and kitchens, especially where no windows are present.
How far you want to take your renovation project will determine what ventilation system you put in place. The way your house was previously built may not allow for a full mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system to be installed. Smaller extraction systems and ventilation through windows may be your only option.
A new build project should be looking at a fix that both compliments the house and its occupants
Once you have insulated and ventilated your property, you should then examine the best way to heat and cool your property when required. Air conditioning units can be installed within a refurb project or a new build, but these can be costly to install and run. Another issue with this method is that they can be unsightly if not done correctly or misuse in design.
Underfloor heating is also becoming more popular in bespoke properties where people are wanting an alternative to radiators. Government grants and schemes are generally available to help people upgrade their boilers to more energy-efficient ones, too.
New technologies in UPVC windows and insulated glass units can reduce heat loss from a property in the winter while keeping it cool in the summer. Replacing your existing windows with more efficient ones can considerably reduce costs to both a new build and existing properties.
MKS Builders Edinburgh has become the go-to builder on many a refurb where energy-efficiency has been at the forefront of peoples thoughts. We’ve also carried out bespoke property builds using only the very best craftsmen available. Whatever your building needs, MKS Builders are guaranteed to leave you with a job you can be completely satisfied with for years to come.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you.