It is possible to significantly improve the energy performance of the existing building fabric.
Why consider building fabric as part of an energy efficiency programme?
Improving a site's building fabric leads to:
- Reduced energy costs as a result of minimising the loss of treated (heated or cooled) air
- Better temperature control - it can lower ventilation and air conditioning costs and prevent overheating
- Improved productivity - the output and morale of the people in the building can be enhanced by providing a more comfortable working environment through reducing draughts, solar glare, overheating and noise
- Lower capital expenditure - a more efficient, well-insulated building needs smaller heating and cooling systems
- Good investment - better insulation can increase a building's value and attractiveness
- Compliance with regulation - businesses may need to consider building fabric under Government Building Regulations
What can you do to improve the energy efficiency of your building?
- Cavity wall insulation - Simple to install at minimal cost but can reduce heat loss by 35%
- Solid wall insulation - More disruptive to install but you could be losing up to 45% of your heat through solid walls
- Roof insulation - Insulation at ceiling level or above suspended ceilings - simple to install and could reduce heat loss by 25%
- Roof level insulation - if you don't have any ceilings, you can still insulate the roof at roof level using traditional insulation
- Draughtproofing - easy, inexpensive and improves occupant comfort. Reduces heating costs by up to 10% and pays back your investment in a year or two.
How much does it cost?
The costs can range from a few pounds upwards depending on what you want to have done - some ways to save energy don't cost anything !
