What is a retrofit project?
In recent years, improving energy efficiency and reducing energy bills have started to vie with wood-burners and bi-fold doors on many home-owner’s project wish lists. If you are thinking of making other significant changes to your house, such as extending and or remodelling for instance, it could be the perfect time to consider a retrofit. This is essentially where you make changes to improve the energy efficiency of your existing home.
Insulation wasn’t a consideration when most of our homes were built, so it is not surprising that they are draughty and costly, or even impossible to keep warm. Most people will have considered some additional form of insulation for their homes, particularly with increasing energy costs. What isn’t talked about so much, but which is essential to consider at the same time is ventilation. Controlling ventilation within our homes is important, as losing warm air up the chimney or through draughty windows can be expensive.
It is possible to develop a phased retrofit plan, so you can carry out the work in a planned, logical sequence over a number of years/projects. Whatever measures are adopted, it is vital to have professional input from an architect who understands building physics. Lomas and Mitchell Architects are very experienced at working with home owners as they try to improve the energy efficiency of their properties.
What is a deep retrofit project?
When does a retrofit project become a deep retrofit project? A deep retrofit will usually entail going back to the structural ‘bones’ of the house, to give you the opportunity to improve airtightness and add insulation to the thermal fabric (roof, external walls and floors). Mention airtightness and many people wince as they don’t like the thought of living in a sealed box. Ensuring there is plenty of fresh, healthy air in our homes is vital, so removing the warm, moist air which is generated by bathing, cooking and, indeed, breathing forms part of an overall retrofit strategy.
Lomas and Mitchell Architects have a great deal of experience with deep retrofit projects and can help you avoid potential pitfalls whilst helping you to make best use of your budget. Contact our friendly team and take the first step toward your perfect project!
Lomas and Mitchell Architects' co-founder, Richard Lomas, had the perfect opportunity to turn a career ambition into reality—carrying out a deep retrofit on an older property. With a keen focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, the house, in need of extensive renovation, provided the ideal canvas for a full strip-out and transformation. Richard’s approach prioritised improving thermal performance and airtightness, ensuring the home would be warmer, healthier, and more energy-efficient for years to come.