Is Your Home Properly Insulated?

As the UK experiences a particularly cold spell, the importance of proper insulation in homes becomes a (excuse the pun!) hot topic.

We know that effective insulation not only keeps your home warm during winter, but as global warming changes the way we live, it’s important to remember that it also helps maintain a cooler indoor temperature during the summer months, creating a comfortable environment year-round.

As part of ongoing professional development, architects must stay abreast of changes in construction processes. Ben is always on the lookout for innovative ideas and cutting-edge technologies to meet the challenges of energy efficiency and climate resilience.

Research from the Passivhaus Trust highlights that well-insulated buildings can reduce heating demand by up to 90% compared to standard construction methods. This is achieved through measures like high-performance insulation in walls, roofs, and floors, and airtight building designs. Similarly, the Building Research Establishment (BRE) has demonstrated that retrofitting homes with high-quality insulation materials can significantly lower carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s net-zero targets.

If you’re planning a new-build, home extension, or renovation, prioritising insulation at the design stage is crucial. Poorly insulated structures can lead to heat loss, draughts, and condensation issues, undermining the comfort and usability of your space. They also make homes more costly to run.

At Ben Parsons Design, we consider energy efficiency and future-proofing at the earliest possible stage of the design process. On a new-build project in Edgbaston, we specified insulating formwork (shown above, left), where concrete is poured into hollow insulated forms that remain in place to provide very high levels of insulation throughout the building. On the renovation project at Moor Hall Drive, underfloor heating (image shown to the right), high levels of insulation, and a Mechanical Heat and Ventilation Recovery (MVHR) system vastly improved the building’s thermal performance.

Whether it’s a new-build, a full renovation, or a modest extension, our sustainable design approach ensures your home works better for you and the environment. Contact us to discuss how we can help you achieve your vision as well as making your home more energy efficient.