There is a near-universal assumption that only new builds can be eco-friendly. The truth is that any home can become sustainable if it takes steps to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. One of these is ensuring that your new house extension project follows certain green building practices, many of which are outlined below and can be applied throughout the home afterwards.
Underfloor Heating
Wall radiators are falling out of favour due to their bulk and excessive use of energy resources. Underfloor heating is relatively simple to install in new extensions and is especially suited to bathrooms. Take some time to source builders in Chelmsford who can also install it in other areas of your home.
Insulate Cavity Walls
If your house extension has cavity walls, be sure to insulate them. These walls are a major source of energy wastage and can result in massive gas bills. To save money, invest in insulating the entire house this way.
Local Building Materials and Tradesmen
When you’re sourcing builders in Chelmsford, a company whose offices are two streets over represents less energy usage than a firm whose employees have to drive 40 miles to reach the project site. The sample principle applies to using materials produced locally: fuel costs associated with transportation and delivery will be lower.
‘Recycled’ Furniture
Furniture made from recycled materials is making its way from artisan shops into big box shopping malls. Reduce your carbon footprint by furnishing the new extension with green options. The same principle also applies when you purchase second-hand furniture instead of an entirely new set, thereby reducing the need for new production output.
Energy-Saving Bulbs
Energy-saving bulbs temporarily fell out of favour for looking too cold and sterile, but modern versions have ditched this image and are an attractive asset to any extension.
Double-Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows consist of two layers of glass with inert gas in the space between them, creating a powerful insulation seal that can result in huge energy savings.
Wood Window Frames
Window frames made of wood are more insulating, longer-lasting, and easier to repair than those made from metal or UPVC. (The latter is known for emitting toxic compounds.)
Water-Based Paint
The majority of paints used in homes are oil-based and not as energy-efficient. Water-based paint that uses natural pigments is not only more pleasing to the eye, they also have a beneficial effect on your energy bill.
Thick Curtains
Adding thick curtains at your windows will help keep out the cold during winter and minimize the need to turn up the heat. To conserve energy, get rid of the blinds and invest in something more substantial.
Solar Panels
While they can be expensive to install, the long term savings are considerable. You can use the energy that the solar panels produce in your home, but also sell it on to the National Grid.
Heating Panels
Infrared heating panels use radiation instead of convection to produce heat, warming your extension area more efficiently. These panels are available in a variety of materials to match any design or preference.
About Connection Construction and builders in Chelmsford
Connection Construction is a main contractor providing both residential and commercial building services in Essex, including Chelmsford, Braintree, Colchester and Maldon.
Our team of contractors and subcontractors have years of experience in completing successful garage conversions, extensions, and complete new builds in the Essex area and we always show exceptional attention to detail in our construction work. We take great pride in every contract, where even the smallest of jobs is delivered with the same level of detail and care as major, high profile, developments.