Multifoil insulation is sparking some debate as to it’s effectiveness.
So here are the key points to consider:
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We’re considering a new build project at the moment. Exciting times.....!
However, a debate with our architect arose about whether to incorporate underfloor heating. The crux of the matter is that it’s more expensive to install, but more efficient in terms of heat distribution and costs.
Umm, personally I’m all for it and the long term heat cost savings are fairly compelling in the current climate. However, who do you go to for advice installation. Well one company we found (but haven’t tried) are Nu-Heat. They claim to be the largest supplier of warm water underfloor heating systems to the domestic market. Interestingly they have also recently added heat pump technology, including ground source, air source and exhaust air to their offering.
Two things to consider here:
1. Underfloor heating is likely to save on heating costs, but costs more to install.
2. It’s likely to make your home more desirable when it comes to sale time.
Keeping abreast of planning permissions in your area can be a great way of determining what you might be able to achieve with your own property. This has taken on an increasing importance as people delay moving in turbulent market conditions.
The web site Planning Alerts.com allows you to scrutinise planning applications and consents in your area. Check out what your neighbours are getting consents for and then apply for something similar. For instance, if they’ve just got consent for a 500 sq ft flat roof extension - then you know that you will be in with a good chance of achieving a similar consent. This can be absolutely vital, considering it can take several expensive amendments and applications to get a consent - why not just piggyback someone else’s work.....
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Wed 23rd July 2008 at 06:00 AM, Filed in DIY News, Green DIY
If you’re considering going down the eco friendly route next time you replace the roof, consider cedar shingles. They offer a sustainable and long lasting roof covering - plus their very attractive to boot.
Shingles are also lightweight and create improved ventilation within the roof void. The lightweight nature of shingles means that they require a less strong supporting structure.
They also have an impressive durability of 30 years and thermal insulation value is 0.1067. That means a reduced heating bill.....
If you’re sprucing up your house with some DIY, (with a view to selling up) - don’t forget to give the garden some thought. For not very much money you can make some quite dramatic improvements for little investment.
One helpful tool to consider is Shoot Online Garden Expert. It’s effectively a web site that allows you to experiment with garden layout, within a garden shape and size that matches your own. You can then place the plants you already have and also experiment with new combinations. You can then utilise a “how to guide” to apply appropriate care to your plants, ready for the all important viewings.
The how to guide has access to 5,700 different plants on it’s database, which can help pick plants that match the conditions of your garden.
If you think a garden is unimportant when it comes to selling your property - think again. With one buyer for every 10 properties being reported by estate agents - it’s important that you take care of every detail.
