Do you want to install a really eco friendly loft conversion? Converting the loft is an environmentally responsible move in itself, since you will be making better use of existing space, while building regulations mean all work will have to comply with modern regulations on insulation. But there are also various ways to make your new loft conversion even greener.
Loft conversion specialists Modern Attics can extend or convert your property in north west London or any other part of the capital, depending on your individual needs as well as the size and shape of your property. Here we have put together some ideas for the environmentally-friendly householder who wants to create more space in their own home, rather than go through the difficulties of moving.
What you can actually do may depend on the building, but here are some general pointers. We can advise you on the options for your particular site.
Although adding in some of these features might add a bit to your total initial bill for your eco friendly attic extension, they should help to save you money in the long run.
Modern Attics are loft conversion specialists who operate right across north west London – in places including Finsbury, Islington, Edgware, Shoreditch, Nags Head, Tottenham, Haringey, Archway, Whetstone, Grange Park, Winchmore Hill and Bowes Park. All our work is carried out to the highest standards of design and craftsmanship, with every attention to detail. We also pride ourselves on our professional, personal service. Click here to find out more about our eco-lofts and get a free quotation.
With the arrival of the recent cold weather, millions of people up and down the country are feeling the chill. Around 25% of all heat in the home is lost through the roof, often leading to a very cold loft. One of the best ways to ensure that those cold feet are kept warm during the long winter months is to invest in the latest insulation technologies. The initial cost of good quality insulation may put people off but in most cases, reductions in heating bills mean that the investment pays for itself within just the first 24 months of installation. The newest insulation methods also are effective for at least 40 years giving you piece of mind, as well as keeping you warm.
One of the cheapest ways to ensure that your loft temperature stays nice and toasty is to upgrade your cavity wall insulation, which could save you up to £160 a year. Most homes that were built after the 1920s have cavity walls and an easy way to tell is to look at the brick pattern.
If your bricks have a regular brick pattern (left), you probably have cavity walls whereas if your bricks alternate in size (right) you probably have solid walls. If you have solid walls, don’t worry! Solid walls can still be insulated, and though it’ll cost that bit more, they actually save more money in the long run that standard cavity walls.
So how much can you save? The table below shows costs and potential savings for houses in England, Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland, the payback time is even quicker at around 2-4 years.
Britain’s building stock is one of the oldest in Europe. In order to bring it up to date, properties need to be adequately insulated. Then, once buildings are properly insulated, occupiers will spend less on energy bills to heat them. The government has recently introduced the Green Deal Initiative to help businesses and home owners to implement more green technologies in their properties. It’s a very simple idea, install green technology in your property and pay no upfront costs. The costs incurred will be repaid through your energy bill over a period of time. The ‘loan’ is associated with the property rather than the bill payer so there’s no obligation to continue paying after you move out.
The golden rule of the initiative is that the expected savings must equal or be greater than the costs attached to the energy bill. There are two main ways to apply for the scheme, through a Green Deal Provider or via a Green Deal Assessment.
You may already be aware of how environmentally conscious we are here at Modern Attics, and that we recommend the inclusion of solar panels with most of our attic conversions. We thought it was about time we provided explanations of exactly what these are and how they can benefit your home.
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We’ve entered a new era in 21st Century living where sustainability and ecological awareness are infusing throughout the global consciousness. It means that we are more alert and responsive to concepts such as carbon footprints and global warming. Modern Attics wanted to be a part of the solution and contribute towards the reduction of energy costs and their effects on the environment around us.
In recent years there has been a notable shift in the way many businesses and other organisations are run, reflecting an increasing change of political and social attitudes. That’s right, the country is going green – and Modern Attics is no exception!
As we become more and more aware of the effect we have on the environment, there’s a lot of pressure for each of us to cut back and live a simpler life in order to reduce our carbon footprint and move towards more sustainable living.
It’s December and the chill is in the air now. Many homes across the UK are stoking those fires and cranking up the heaters in order to stay warm in the home. There is only so much that these can accomplish however if your home is not prepared correctly and insulated in all the right places. Read more