Energy efficiency matters not only because it's a costly resource that we have to pay for but also because the less fossil fuel-based energy we consume, the smaller our carbon footprint is. What that means is that we have to factor energy efficiency into all we do, including when we extend our homes. The good news is that you can find out all about how to do this in my guide below.
Always install double or triple-glazed windows
One of the smartest ways you can make sure any home extension is energy efficient is by adding double or triple-glazed windows. These types of windows have multiple panels of glass, with gas trapped between them. These layers act as insulation both for heat and noise, ensuring your extension will not only be comfortable but energy efficient to heat and cool as well.
Always add plenty of insulation to your walls and loft
Another thing you need to do to make an extension as energy efficient as possible is to add plenty of insulation to the walls and, if applicable, the loft. This will help keep the temperature inside the rooms of your extension more stable, which means you will use less energy in heating or cooling it.
Choose the most energy-efficient extension option
Not all extensions are the same when it comes to energy efficiency. For example, a traditional conservatory can be problematic because it will sap heat from your home during the winter, making your entire property harder to keep at a consistent temperature.
However, by choosing a more energy efficient option like these tiled roof conservatories, you can greatly reduce this problem. The great thing is that you’ll still get to enjoy your conservatory, and they will stay cool in the summer too, meaning you can do your bit for the environment while staying comfortable all year round.
Choose local building materials
A great deal of energy is used in transporting building materials used in extension from their place of manufacture to your property. This means that you can save a great deal of energy by choosing materials that are sourced locally.
Additionally, you can save even more energy by choosing materials that have been reclaimed from previous structures and projects. This is because no energy is expended in their production as they are already made.
Add ways to generate your clean energy
When building an extension with energy efficiency in mind, it makes sense to add a way to generate clean and renewable energy. The most convenient option for this is usually to install solar panels on the roof, which can convert the sun’s rays into electricity that you can use to heat and power not only your extension but your whole home.
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Add rainwater collection systems
You can also make your extension even more energy efficient by optimizing it for rainwater collection. This is pretty easy to do, as all you need are some rainwater barrels, a tank, and some guttering that drains directly into them. Then you will be able to collect grey water for tasks like watering your plants or washing your car, which will save all the energy that is used to clean, process and transport fresh water from the tap.