BUILD A BETTER HOME

BRITAIN'S NEW BUILDING REGULATIONS ARE INTENDED TO FUTURE-PROOF THE COUNTRY'S NEW HOUSING STOCK. BUT WHAT CAN WE DO TO MAKE THE NATION'S EXISTING HOUSING MORE EFFICIENT, MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND BETTER TO LIVE IN? by

- VICKY WOOLLASTON

The UK needs more houses. Demand is outstripping supply and it's driving up prices, making affordable housing harder to come by. That's just one of the reasons behind the government's intention to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years.

But as of 2025, the UK's Future Homes Standard comes into effect, which requires all newly built homes to be more energy efficient and produce 75-80-per-cent fewer emissions than those built under the 2013 regulations.

Builders plan to meet the new regulations by orienting homes to maximise natural light, using low-carbon materials like cross laminated timber (which captures carbon dioxide - CO₂- while it grows, emitting less CO₂ than concrete to produce), and integrating renewable energy systems such as solar panels and heat pumps. Advanced ventilation systems and airtight constructions will also help new houses minimise energy loss while maintaining indoor air quality. Rainwater harvesting systems and recycling greywater (water from baths, showers, sinks and appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers) will further help with sustainability.

But what if you already have a house? One that's a little older, but could potentially benefit from some new additions to make it more energy efficient, more economical to run, more environmentally friendly and more healthy to live in? Whether it's lowering bills or doing your bit for the planet, retrofitting your home - upgrading your existing building's structure and systems can have a positive effect. Poor insulation, outdated heating systems and damp issues not only waste energy, but can also lead to respiratory illnesses and higher household expenses.