Retrofit is a process which makes a series of changes to existing buildings so that energy consumption and emissions are reduced.
Completed retrofit works should also bring the added benefit of a more comfortable and healthier home. There are a number of measures which can be carried out such as; loft or wall insulation, double or triple glazing or replacing a gas boiler with a ground or air hear-source pump. In some cases when other home improvements like loft conversions are carried out, it can prompt the opportunity to carry out other energy-reducing measures on the house at the same time.
When referring to retrofit there are two approaches that you will hear people talk about: ‘Fabric First’ and ‘Whole House’.
What is Fabric First?
Fabric First is a straightforward approach which is aimed at improving the fabric components like the walls, lofts and floors of the building first. This ensures that the correct amount of ventilation is there before looking at the more complex parts of the building such as heating, hot water and lighting. There is not much point in having a brand new heating source installed if the insulation isn’t keeping the heat in and cold out. So, for example, insulation will need to be addressed, and any ‘leaky’ parts like doors and windows will need to be improved to reduce heat loss. Although, there is the risk of mould and dampness arising if there is a lack of ventilation. The answer here is not to block every single ‘leaky’ part of the house and be wary of considering some forms of ventilation.
What is Whole House?
Whole House is an assessment which is carried out by a qualified Retrofit Professional on the whole house, including the fabric (walls, lofts), services and systems (heating, lighting and hot water) and the energy used. As every household is different, this assessment will consider how the occupants live and use their home, along with any other circumstances that may affect the dwelling. A plan is put together and then split into phases. Each phase will include an estimate of the cost of works that can be undertaken, an estimate of the energy savings for each individual measure and the amount of carbon reduction that can be made within each phase. It will then be down to the homeowner to decide which measures will be completed and when. The planning for this process will be developed and managed by a qualified and accredited Retrofit Professional.
Improving the building fabric to minimise heat loss and maximise air tightness is not only important but sensible as insulation has a low cost and a long life which should only be required once before 2050. For services and systems, they will have a shorter lifespan and will most likely need replacing every 10-15 years.
What a typical project will include:
Step 1 – Assess the property
Step 2 – Prepare a Whole House plan
Step 3 – Agree on the plan and gather quotes
Step 4 – Sign contracts and start work
Step 5 – Evaluation and completion
Why is retrofit important to you?
1. The UK Government’s target is to tackle Climate Change and reach net zero by 2050. As a country, we are all aware of the changes that need to be made to reduce our energy consumption and the emissions we produce. UK homes use 35% of all energy in the UK and emit 20% of carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, it is crucial that we reduce these wherever possible.
2. In the current climate, energy prices are rising and are likely to continue. Actioning and completing the measures that reduce the amount of energy will not only help reduce emissions but also lower household energy bills.
3. The introduction of these measures can help make homes warmer, more comfortable and healthier environments to live in. Studies and reports from WHO, NHS, Universities and Parliamentary Groups have all highlighted the impact of cold, damp and mould as well as poor air quality on health.
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