Older homes are not always energy efficient and lose heat from several areas: walls, roof, windows and draughts and floors.
Contrary to modern buildings, old buildings were built to breathe, if you try to insulate older buildings on the inside, then the outside wall could get cold, condense moisture, and saturate the wall. Insulating the outside the building will retain moisture on the inside and could cause damp and mould.
So, how do you stop an older property from leaking energy?
It is essential to maintain the fabric of the building, regular maintenance can stop problems before they start.
Windows and Draughts
Repairing any broken glass and filling gaps as well as some simple solutions such as fixing draught excluders to outside doors and letter boxes, hanging heavier curtains, will help keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
Roof
Clear drains and gutters – when these get blocked it can cause damp and cold.
Insulating the loft area can help eliminate heat escaping through the roof.
Floors
Again, fill any gaps and use floor coverings such as carpets and rugs to keep the warm air in.
Other solutions to be more energy efficient.
Switch off any electrical items when you are not using them.
Replace halogen bulbs with LED, all these things will keep your home generally much more energy efficient.
Ensure your heating system is properly maintained.
Insulate heating and hot water pipework and invest in some programmable thermostats.
Unblock radiators by removing furniture that is situated too close and stopping the warm air circulating freely in the room.
If you are living in or purchasing an older property, Mace Davies offer a series of surveys that can assist you with your property, from condition reports through to planned maintenance programs.
For all your surveying needs, contact Chris at Mace Davies.
