Warwick Retrofit

This 1960s detached suburban dwelling was undergoing a full renovation and extension and the client wanted to achieve very high levels of energy efficiency. After discussions with their builder who I’d worked with previously, I was appointed to provide the expertise needed to develop a whole house retrofit strategy. By providing PHPP energy modelling, and advising on the pros and cons of various strategies for airtightness, insulation and ventilation, the team were able to make precise and informed decisions about how to improve the building’s fabric and mitigate risk. The strategy was integrated into the detailed design which was undertaken by the existing architects, while I continued to provide on-site advice to the client and contractor during the construction phase.

It is estimated that as result of the careful planning and energy modelling, the works will bring about an 80% reduction in heating energy. The heating system was able to be much smaller (3kW instead of 12kW) and the client’s comfort will be greatly enhanced, with a more stable (and on average warmer) indoor air temperature, and a high-performing ventilation system to improve air-quality.

In addition, by helping the team to select environmentally responsible materials – wood fibre insulation, modern lime plasters, monolithic clay blocks - the impact of the build has been substantially reduced compared with more standard methods of construction.

Key statistics
Estimated heat demand: 26 KWh/m2·yr (PHPP)
Airtightness: 0.6 ACH