How to improve energy efficiency in older homes
Whilst older homes have charm and character and are strong and stable, they don’t retain energy very well. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can retain these qualities whilst improving thermal performance. So, as we are specialists in energy-efficient home improvements, we thought we would show you how.
Upgrade your windows
Old homes usually come with single glazing and up to 10% of heat loss occurs through the windows. However, upgrading to double glazing is a simple and effective way to retain more heat. We recommend a double glazing option that retains traditional features, such as flush sash. You can also get sliding sash windows with double glazing. And for an even bigger boost to your home’s thermal performance, triple glazing is available.
Check your current heating system
If you have just moved to an older property, or even if you’ve lived in one for a while, it’s important to check if the heating system has been upgraded in the last 10 or 20 years. Having an annual service ensures your boiler is working as best as possible, but if your boiler is over 10 years old, you should think about replacing it with a more efficient model to save money. It’s also a good idea to check if your radiators are working properly in every room. If they are colder at the top than at the bottom, air could be trapped, and bleeding them would fix this.
Insulate your floorboards
A surprisingly large amount of heat can be lost through the gaps between the floorboards. You can lay down a large rug to insulate the space in the short-term, but you can also fix drafty floorboards by adding a sealant. Underfloor insulation is another option that really combats heat loss.
Replace the front and back door
Front and back doors that are very old are two of the biggest causes of heat loss in older homes. So, we recommend swapping them out for some modern, energy-efficient equivalents. We have a wide selection available here at T&K, and our composite doors are 17% more efficient than panelled and solid timber doors!
Draughtproof your home
Adding draught excluders around doors and using draught strips to fill gaps in windows and letterboxes is another way to prevent heat from escaping.
Transform your older home with T&K!
Are you interested in turning an older home into a more energy-efficient living space? T&K Home Improvements can help. For more information or a free quote, give us a call on 0800 622 716 or contact us online.
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