With the myriad environmental concerns associated with suburban sprawl lengthy commutes, infringing on farmland and wildlife habitats, increased stormwater runoff developers are turning their attention to revitalizing historic homes. By using existing structures, it can create less construction waste and keep population clusters closer to existing infrastructure.
With that said, renovating historic homes will not be palatable unless the end product is up to speed with existing construction and living standards. Keep reading as we explore some of the best ways to retrofit homes for contemporary energy efficiency standards, helping to upgrade older houses for modern living.
Upgrade the Insulation
A great place to start when renovating for energy efficiency is with the insulation. Hopefully, the existing structure is not still using asbestos-based insulation. The health risks of asbestos became widely-known in the 1970’s. If the home was built after the 1970’s, it is likely using some type of cellulose batt insulation.
While cellulose batt insulation works well enough when new, years of exposure to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures can cause it to break down. Standard batt insulation usually starts losing R-value in 20-30 years. However, the process can begin in as little as 15 years in extreme climates.
In addition to the R-value of the home, factoring in the embodied energy required to make an insulation product is an increasingly important factor for determining its overall energy efficiency. If it requires significant energy to make a product, much of its eco-friendliness in application is offset. As such, contractors are sourcing more sustainably-sourced insulation products, such as hemp, sheep’s wool, and recycled denim batt insulation.
Enhance the Windows
New windows are one of the premier retrofitting projects to consider for a home. Not only will they fortify the building envelope by enhancing weak window-to-wall transitions, but modern window technology is far more energy-efficient than the single-paned windows of yore.
For example, low-E window glazing uses a microscopic, transparent coating that reflects heat. This allows for the natural transmission of sunlight without any accompanying heat loss or gain, guaranteeing a well-lit, comfortable interior that consumes as little energy as possible.
Create Functional Exterior Space
There has been a huge focus on the exterior of the home over the past decade. Admittedly, this trend was expedited during the COVID pandemic, as homeowners sought new ways to use their property while quarantined.
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With that said, the energy efficiency benefits of functional exterior space should not be overlooked. By stepping outside to pass the hours of the day, homeowners can take advantage of the natural environment and rely less on conditioned interiors. As such, it is a great idea to check deck building codes in your area and see about creating your own exterior hangout.
If you have enough lawn space, outdoor kitchens are trending additions to modern properties. They more effectively dissipate heat and require less meticulous attention to cleaning than standard indoor kitchens, making them an energy efficient venue for switching up mealtime routines.
Open the Interior
The open interior is one of the most prevalent trends in modern homes. Residents are eschewing the walled-off, sequestered houses of their parents’ generation in favor of more open, flowing spaces.
Not only does this create a more inviting, functional interior, but it has numerous energy efficiency benefits. Light can flow more freely through open spaces, reducing the need to run multiple light banks concurrently. There are fewer barriers to block conditioned air for more efficient heating and cooling. Renovation and redesign becomes streamlined, as less energy is required to knock down interior walls.
Some of the best ways to maximize the open interior are through the inclusion of a large kitchen island that ties together cooking and dining areas, light-colored walls to better reflect the sun, and large window area to improve daylighting and enhance the sense of spaciousness in the interior.
Establish Stylish Waste Removal
It is pretty scary to think about the amount of waste created in the consumer culture. According to the EPA, Americans produce more than 290 million tons of municipal solid waste each year. Traditionally, much of that has gone into landfills, harming habitats and polluting ecosystems.
While it is impossible to completely eliminate all waste from our society, modern homeowners are much more mindful about practicing sustainable refuse removal. In addition to a standard residential dumpster, explore recycling and composting options to guarantee that your home’s waste does the most good.
To keep these various waste receptacles from detracting from the home’s exterior ambiance, look into stylish sheds for waste bins. Not only can a waste shed enhance curb appeal, but it keeps your refuse safe from loiterers, varmints, and inclement weather.
Get Up With the Times Via Energy Efficient Home Renovations
Retrofitting older homes offers myriad sustainability benefits over new construction. Take this to the next level by choosing energy efficient renovations from upgraded insulation to modern waste removal that will help older houses thrive for modern living purposes.
For more of the latest trends shaping the home renovation industry, explore the resources at Structures Insider - Real Estate