In an era where sustainability and efficiency are becoming paramount, retrofitting your home is more relevant than ever. Not only can it enhance comfort and style, but it can also lead to significant energy savings and a reduced carbon footprint. Whether you’re looking to modernize your space or increase its value, retrofitting can breathe new life into your home. 

Explore our Retrofitting Project where we are renovating a traditional 1930’s semi in Liverpool to Passivhaus standard, the highest standard in energy efficiency, comfort and quality.  Our goal is renovate this property to such a high standard that it will need no refurbishment for another 100 years!

We have just had 2 successful Open Days to allow all interested people, homeowners, architects, Passivehaus professionals, members of a local council,  to see some of the most beneficial building retrofitting ideas you can undertake. In terms of improving the fabric of the building we are doing whatever we can to make this house low energy, low carbon, low bills and high comfort home!

Every part of the house will be upgraded, some of the highlights :

 

Insulation Upgrades: Keeping the Comfort In

 

One of the most effective retrofitting strategies is improving your home’s insulation. Older homes often lack adequate insulation, leading to energy loss and uncomfortable temperature fluctuations.

What to Consider:  Look into adding insulation to your loft, walls, and floors. 

In our project we are using as many as possible low carbon insulation materials like woodfibres and we are fitting a lot of them!  For example 220mm on external walls, 300mm in the loft.

Benefits:  By upgrading insulation, you can lower heating and cooling costs, improve indoor comfort, and reduce noise pollution.

 

Energy-Efficient Windows: Letting in Light, Not Air

 

Older windows can be a significant source of energy loss. Retrofitting your windows with energy-efficient models can be a wise investment.

What to Consider:  Double or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings can greatly improve insulation and reduce heat loss.

On our project we are using timber triple glazed windows. They are fitted in the insulation layer to minimize thermal bridges.

 

Smart Home Technology: Modernising for Convenience

 

Incorporating smart home technology during your retrofit can add convenience and efficiency.

What to Consider:  Smart thermostats, smart lighting, and automated window treatments can help you better manage your home’s energy consumption.

Benefits: These technologies not only help you save on energy costs but also create a more convenient living environment tailored to your lifestyle.

 

Solar Panels: Harnessing the Power of the Sun

 

If you’re looking for a long-term solution to energy costs and want to lessen your environmental impact, consider structurally retrofitting your home with solar panels.

What to Consider:  Evaluate your home’s roof orientation and shading to determine the best placement for solar panels. Look into local incentives as many regions offer tax credits for solar installations.

Benefits: Solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills, provide energy independence, and increase your home’s market value.

In our project we are going to cover all roofs with solar tiles, to maximize solar gain. The roof needs doing anyway so this is the best time to do this type of work.

 

HVAC System Overhaul: Breathing New Life into Your Home

 

Gravity ventilation doesn’t work in modern, highly insulated and airtight homes. An outdated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can lead to inefficient energy use and comfort issues.

In our project we are using a centralized mechanical heat recovery system which pumps fresh air 24hrs and recovers heat from used air, best of both worlds, fresh air and no loss of energy!

 

Cost of retrofitting and funding

 

The cost of retrofitting depends on various factors, including the type of retrofitting needed (e.g energy efficiency improvements, upgrades, or modernisation of building systems), the size and age of the building, local labour and material costs, regulatory requirements, and the specific technologies or materials being used.  There is no doubt about it, initial costs are higher than typical refurbishment costs. Long term this is the cheapest way of renovating because it is done only ONCE.

 

Stay tuned

 

Retrofitting your home is a smart investment in both your property and the environment. By enhancing energy efficiency, adding modern conveniences, and improving overall comfort, you can create a sustainable, stylish, and inviting living space. Whether you tackle one project at a time or go for a complete overhaul, the benefits will resonate for years to come. With thoughtful planning and execution, your home can be transformed into an oasis of comfort and efficiency, ready for the future!

Stay tuned for more updates from our 1930’s semi to Passivhaus home project!