Advice on how to renovate your home sustainably

Need to improve your EPC? Whether you’re renovating your home to sell it or extending it for a growing family, it’s worth thinking about incorporating some environmentally friendly features. 

Not only could green credentials increase resale value, but they could attract more prospective buyers too. Survey results published by Statista indicate that at least eight in ten first-time buyers would consider a green home.

Whether you’re renovating now or you’re planning your next project, it’s worth knowing why you should make some essential green upgrades…

Sustainable renovation: is it worth it?

Renovating with an emphasis on sustainability can drive up the costs involved. 

Add to that the time it takes to source recycled materials, contact responsible traders, and arrange governmental grants for green technologies, and it’s hardly surprising that this type of project can take months to complete. So, why do so many home builders and private renovators opt for green improvements?

According to the Rightmove Greener Homes Report 2023, homes that improve their EPC rating from F to C fetch almost £56,000 more on average. Moreover, with the modern home buyer prioritising low energy bills, efficient technologies are high in demand. It’s highly likely that green homes not only sell faster but sell for more than those without green credentials too. 

Top three sustainable upgrades for home renovation projects

 – Insulation

The most important thing you can do in any serious renovation project is to replace and upgrade the insulation in the loft and wall cavities. 

Over time, fibreglass insulation breaks down and small gaps form, rendering it ineffective. As a result, home heating systems need to work harder to maintain desired temperature levels inside. Newer insulation presents a greener and longer-lasting alternative. 

Sheep’s wool is a firm favourite across the globe, offering superior breathability and insulation due to millions of tiny air pockets. Modern developers also turn to Icynene, rigid polystyrene, and cotton fibres.

– Greener appliances

From water-saving taps to kitchen appliances with strong eco-credentials, replacing older appliances is an effective way to make any property more energy-efficient. 

Whether you focus on one room, like the kitchen, or kit out the whole property with state-of-the-art machines, the savings will be clear and immediate too. For buy-to-let landlords, this step is integral in attracting prospective tenants – not least because modern appliances are more attractive than older ones. 

Don’t be put off by high costs for efficient appliances: covering upfront costs with finance options could boost your credit score in the meantime. Once you’re paid up, you’ll enjoy cost-savings through lower maintenance and energy bills too.

– Solar panels

Also known as photovoltaics, solar panels convert the sun’s energy into electricity that can be used in households and commercial buildings alike. They’re available with funding options too, so they make an attractive option for those renovating their own home. 

The main advantage of solar panels is reduced costs. Along with saving hundreds of pounds per year on energy bills, you could also get paid for the excess energy you generate if you choose to sell it back to the grid. For modern homeowners looking to stay in their home or sell it for a higher asking price, solar panels are a no-brainer.

Overview

If you’re serious about increasing the value of your property and making it easier to sell, green upgrades make a foolproof choice. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice before you start your project.