How can I make my home more energy efficient?
With soaring energy prices, there is a real drive towards energy efficiency in our homes. Here at Lomas and Mitchell Architects we are finding more and more clients asking about sustainability measures which they can implement to reduce their energy demands.
For years we have been advised to insulate our homes but it is only relatively recently that other aspects of a building have been considered. They are, arguably, as important as insulation as to get them wrong can create more problems than they were installed to solve. Internal insulation, such as lining external walls with insulated plasterboard, can reduce heat loss but if not carefully detailed, can introduce conditions where condensation is trapped within the wall construction which can lead to mould growth and deterioration of materials through damp. External insulation works well with homes which are rendered or which can have a different surface material which can be tricky in a country where brick and stone are very common in our housing stock.
Ventilation is key and works hand in hand with insulation. Removing uncontrolled ventilation, such as warm air escaping up an unlined chimney or around an ill-fitting window will go some way to managing energy bills. Controlling ventilation, ensuring there is a healthy supply of fresh air and that warm, moist air is removed from the home is well worth considering.
Lomas and Mitchell Architects regularly encourage our clients to improve the energy efficiency of their homes whilst embarking on other projects. Why not contact us to see if we can help not just to remodel your home but to improve its energy efficiency whilst we are there?
Transformation House: A Sustainable Renovation
At Lomas and Mitchell Architects, we specialise in energy-efficient homes, ensuring that environmental considerations are at the heart of our designs. Transformation House is a prime example of how thoughtful renovations can dramatically improve a home's energy performance while enhancing aesthetics and functionality.
This project focused on wrapping the existing structure in external wall insulation with a high-quality rendered finish, significantly reducing heat loss. Triple-glazed composite timber and aluminium windows were installed to maximise thermal efficiency, alongside a whole-house ventilation system for optimal indoor air quality. To further enhance sustainability, PV solar panels were integrated into the rear roof, paired with a battery storage system to maximise energy use.
Explore Transformation House and discover how strategic design and innovative materials can create a comfortable, energy-efficient home.