Creating a Sustainable Home via Retrofit

When EAL Consult was asked to assess a 1930s residential property for a sustainable Retrofit, they found their clients were a professional couple with dreams of off-grid, self-sufficient living who were determined to futureproof their home by investing in renewable technology and sustainable improvements.

They knew they needed expert advice which led them to EAL Consult.

The Initial Survey

EAL Consult’s survey began with a detailed inspection. The original walls were solid brick with a cavity but no insulation, while the loft conversion and extension both used more modern construction techniques. Most of the windows were double-glazed PVC, with aluminium-framed windows in the 2018 loft conversion. The central heating ran on gas, with an ‘A’ rated combination boiler. Feedback from the clients identified construction elements that caused drafts and cold bridging.

A thermal imaging survey was carried out and highlighted cold spots demonstrating areas of low insulation and drafts. The thermal and ventilation performance of the existing property was evaluated. An EPC carried out in 2021 had given the house a ‘D’ rating, so there was certainly scope for improvement by the current owners.

Next Steps

Before recommending any renewable technologies for the house, EAL Consult was careful to build up a comprehensive picture of the property through a ‘Fabric First’ approach – assessing the existing structure to make sure that issues with insulation, cold bridging and drafts were addressed before suggesting alternative systems for heating and power.

Considering options

In order to prepare the property for the installation of a renewable heating system, it would be necessary to rectify the issues with insulation and drafts. Most renewable heating technologies require high levels of fabric efficiency and air tightness, and effective mechanical ventilation in order to work efficiently. EAL Consult was able to offer several options for external insulation, draft prevention, and upgrades to the fabric of the building.

Having considered a wide range of options for renewable technologies the team provided the homeowners with a detailed report. This included five options with calculations demonstrating the effect of each combination of fabric and energy efficiency on the property’s energy performance, with predicted EPC ratings.

Evidence-based reporting and cost savings

As a result the property’s potential EPC rating jumped from ‘D’ to  ‘B’. The clients had a clear and concise specification to pass on to the contractor for accurate costings that would deliver the home of their dreams without costing the earth.

If you’d like a initial FREE conversation about how a Retrofit Assessment can help you make informed decisions, get in touch