London is home to various beautiful period properties that reflect the city’s rich architectural past. Whether you own a Georgian townhouse or an Edwardian semi-detached home, these buildings have a unique charm and character. However, many of them were built long before energy efficiency became a concern.
These homes usually have solid walls, single-glazed sash windows, and outdated heating systems. As a result, they tend to lose heat quickly, which leads to high energy bills and discomfort during colder months. You can improve their energy efficiency by adopting some practical strategies. Let’s go through them without further ado.
Effective Ways to Improve the Energy Efficiency of Period Properties
Repair and Refurbish Original Windows
Sash windows are a key feature of many period homes in London. Though they add beauty and historical value, they are one of the biggest sources of heat loss. However, you cannot replace them, especially if the property is in conservation areas. Therefore, the best option is to opt for sash window refurbishment in London.
You can easily find professionals in this city who can restore the timber, replace broken cords, and improve the fit. They also offer the option of fitting slimline double glazing within the original frames. Refurbishing your sash windows enables you to retain their charm while reducing heat loss.
Install Secondary Glazing
If your home still has single-glazed windows and you cannot replace them due to building regulations, secondary glazing is a good alternative. It involves fitting an extra pane of glass on the inside of the existing window. This added layer reduces heat loss and outside noise without changing the external appearance of the property.
Secondary glazing is particularly useful in London homes within conservation areas where double glazing is not permitted. It is a cost-effective way to improve thermal performance. Moreover, it is easy to remove if needed.
Insulate the Loft or Roof Space
A lot of heat is lost through the roof of a home, especially in older properties. Insulating your loft is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency. If your loft is accessible, adding a thick layer of insulation material, such as mineral wool, can significantly reduce your energy bills.
In London, many period homes have pitched roofs that are ideal for insulation upgrades. Make sure the insulation is installed properly and doesn’t block ventilation because it can cause condensation problems. If your loft has been converted, consider using insulation boards under the roof.
Upgrade the Heating System
Many period homes in London still rely on old boilers or outdated radiators. An inefficient heating system will use more energy to keep your house warm. You can upgrade to a modern condensing boiler to improve comfort and reduce running costs. You may also consider fitting smart thermostats to control heating zones more efficiently.
If your home still uses old cast-iron radiators, make sure they are well-maintained. You should also add reflective panels behind them to stop heat escaping through the walls. These small changes help make the system more responsive and energy-efficient.
Add Insulation to Internal Walls
Period properties usually have solid walls without a cavity. It means you can’t use standard cavity wall insulation. However, internal wall insulation is a practical solution. This involves adding a layer of insulating material to the inside of external-facing walls.
You can use rigid boards or stud walls filled with mineral wool or foam. It may slightly reduce room size, but it significantly reduces heat loss. Make sure the job is done by experienced professionals because poor installation can lead to damp or mould issues.
Drought Proofing
Draughts are common in older properties due to gaps in windows, doors, floors, and chimneys. Uncontrolled draughts often lead to heat loss and higher bills. Draught proofing involves sealing these gaps. You can easily find skilled professionals for draught proofing in London.
They are specialised in handling period homes without affecting their appearance. Draught proofing involves applying brush seals on windows, sealing skirting boards, using chimney balloons, and blocking unused vents.
Use Heavy Curtains and Blinds
It is a simple but effective method to reduce heat loss in your period home. Windows are a major point where heat escapes, especially at night. You should invest in heavy curtains to retain warmth, especially if you close them before the temperature drops in the evening.
Thermal blinds are another good option, particularly for sash windows. They add an extra layer of insulation. This solution not only helps with energy efficiency but also improves privacy and adds a touch of style to your rooms. It’s a low-cost fix with visible benefits.
Making a period property in London more energy efficient may seem challenging. However, it is achievable with the aforementioned strategies. You can adopt them to not only reduce bills but also the carbon footprint of your home.
