Built before 1939
Home Performance Audit
Built between 1970-1989Energy Efficiency and Construction through the years
Below are a list of energy efficiency and construction methods over the years
Insulation
The widespread introduction of insulation into the wall cavity began in the 1970s with it becoming compulsory in building regulations during the 1990s. Typical attic insulation at six inches in the 1970’s and 9 inches in the 1980’s with an R value of 30.
With environmental conditions becoming more of an issue, people now take much more interest in reducing energy wastage and cavity wall insulation is a cost effective way to reduce the amount of heat (as much as 35%) lost from convection off walls. As well as being more environmentally friendly, it can reduce heating costs as more of the heat is used effectively and it is often used as a first step, due to its low payback time and smaller initial installation costs. As the demand for energy efficiency in buildings increases the issue of thermal bridging in cavity wall openings is becoming more prominent. Solutions to thermal bridging include cavity closers, an insulated frame seals the cavity at apertures for doors and windows
Air and Duct Sealing
Over the years your house can develop cracks in the foundation, window and door frames, and other areas as the house settles. Air sealing your cracks and ducts is one of the most cost effect solutions in saving money on your utility bills.
Asbestos
Through the 1970s, asbestos was used to fireproof roofing and flooring, for heat insulation, and for a variety of other purposes. Some homes and buildings constructed during this time may contain asbestos.