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Part 2 of this blog describes some some simple measures which are free and low to medium cost which will improve the energy efficiency of listed buildings whilst being unlikely to require planning permission or Listed Building Consent.
No cost measures – simple behavioural changes
• Draw curtains/blinds in the evening to conserve heat
• Check your central heating temperature and your hot water temperature
• Avoid leaving electrical equipment such as TVs, computers or stereos on standby - switch them off at the mains
Low
cost measures
• Use energy
efficient light bulbs - they can last over 10 times longer than standard bulbs• Check you have a well-fitting hot water tank jacket and consider insulating hot water pipes
• Install draught proofing around doors, windows and letterboxes
Medium cost measures
Installing insulation in existing roof voids is in many cases practicable and can help significantly in improving a building’s energy performance. Where a building has a historic timber roof structure insulation can be installed between rafters, without any visual impact or damage to the historic building.
Insulating
floors is another medium cost option. Timber floors can be insulated by
lifting the floorboards and laying mineral wool insulation supported by netting
between the joists. Gaps and draughts around skirting boards and floors are
simple to fix by sealing with suitable sealants.
In the final part of this series, I will look into larger projects which may be applied after the above options have
been exhausted.