Many homeowners turn to their loft when they need extra living space. Converting your loft not only gives you an extra room in the house, but it is also the perfect opportunity to improve the energy-efficiency of your home, says Derbyshire Building Control Partnership (DBCP).
Compliance with building regulations is a necessity when you undertake a loft conversion. A key part of the regulations is energy-efficiency – ensuring that a building operates in a way that uses no more fuel and power than is reasonable. Being energy-efficient also means that your heating bills are reduced.
The calculation to minimise heat loss is called a U-value and building regulations require it to be 0.18W/m2 or lower. In order to achieve the appropriate level of heat retention, there should be good insulation between and beneath the rafters, as well as between the walls and the roof.
But, good insulation isn’t the only thing you can do to help make your home more energy-efficient. Dave Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP recommends homeowners undertaking a loft conversion to consider installing a number of other energy saving measures in your property:
- Energy-efficient windows – A+-rated double glazing or even triple glazing windows can cut energy bills significantly. They’re also better for sound-proofing and reduce the build-up of condensation.
- LED lighting – LED lights are 80% more efficient than fluorescent and incandescent lights as they convert 95% of their energy into light and only 5% into heat.
- Additional heating – With the money you save on energy in other areas, it might be a good idea to invest in some smart thermostats, like Hive, Nest Thermostat E and the Tado Smart Thermostat. These devices allow you to control the heat (and other electrical devices in your home) from your mobile device. With the additional control smart heating gives you, energy bills can be cut massively.
- Solar panels – While solar panels can be used for any home with a suitable roof, there are some big cost savings for homeowners who install then during the loft conversion process. Scaffolding can be a big part of the cost that comes with the installation of solar panels. However, if you’re having a loft conversion, it is most likely already up. This means the cost will be lowered and you can start to generate your own energy.
Converting a loft can really transform your home and give you that much-needed extra space. So, why not take the opportunities that come with it and create a much more energy-efficient home, helping to cut down those dreaded bills. The money you save might even go towards decorating your new room!
If you’re thinking about a loft conversion in your home, please get in touch with our friendly expert team of building control surveyors who can help you ensure your loft conversion meets the all-important building regulations.
For more information, you can download our free Guide to Extending Your Home here, which DBCP has produced in conjunction with LABC. It’s packed full of valuable advice and information, helping you avoid some of the common pitfalls when it comes to altering your home.