Making some strategic eco friendly home improvements is not only a responsible choice but a smart investment. With rising energy costs and a growing awareness of climate change (plus the introduction of the Green Deal Energy Grant) more of us are seeking ways to renovate in a way that’s kinder to our planet. Whether that’s to reduce our carbon footprint, curate a more sustainable lifestyle or keep our homes at a comfortable temperature.

How can I make my house more eco friendly?

Start by reducing energy consumption through measures such as: upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, improving insulation and installing energy-saving lighting.

Conserve water by installing low-flow fixtures and fixing leaks. Get into good habits and minimise waste by recycling, composting and reducing single-use plastics. Choose eco friendly cleaning products and opt for sustainable building materials when renovating or decorating.

Finally, consider renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines to power your home. Take care to consult with experts before making any changes to your property and read our tips on staying positive during a big project before you dive in.

Eco friendly home improvements: Why now?

Making eco friendly home improvements has an often overlooked benefit – temperature control. The quest for a comfortable room temperature can be a challenge. A room that’s too hot in summer and too cold in winter is far from ideal. Whether that’s during sweltering summer nights or frosty winter mornings when you don’t want to get out of your toasty bed.

The temptation is always to stick the heating on for longer or invest in an air conditioning unit. These solutions may work in the short term, but they’re less than environmentally friendly. There’s also the added side effect of increasing your energy bills.

Air conditioning units across the world rely on CFCs, a type of gas that’s harmful to the atmosphere and contributes to the greenhouse effect – while traditional central heating systems rely on fossil fuel burning. So what are the alternatives? Let’s take a look…

How do I regulate the temperature in my house?

Regulating your home’s temperature involves a combination of factors. But a good place to start is with some proper insulation in your attic, walls and floors to prevent heat loss or gain. Next, consider upgrading to energy efficient doors and windows to reduce draughts.

Invest in a programmable thermostat to automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule. Adjust your blinds and curtains to control sunlight exposure – close them during hot days and open them during sunny winter days.

Finally, consider using fans strategically to circulate air and create a more comfortable environment. Use timers and smart appliances to reduce energy usage. This can help you monitor and control your energy consumption more effectively. Opt for devices which can be programmed to adjust temperatures based on your schedule and preferences, improving performance and reducing waste.

What is the most efficient temperature to keep your house at?

Typically, the most efficient temperature to keep your house at is generally considered to be between 18°C and 21°C (64°F and 69°F).

This range allows for comfort while minimising energy consumption. Lowering the temperature by even a few degrees can significantly reduce your heating costs.

However, just like everyone’s favourite pizza toppings, answers may vary. Individual preferences and health considerations may influence the ideal temperature for your specific needs.

What is the most economical way to heat a house?

The most economical way to heat a house involves a combination of factors, including efficient heating systems, proper insulation, and smart energy management. Here’s a useful checklist for getting started:

Heating	Consider upgrading to high-efficiency boilers or heat pumps, which use less energy to produce the same amount of heat.
Insulation	Ensure your home is well-insulated in the loft, walls and floors to minimise heat loss. Don’t forget the garage, utility room and front entrance.
Smart home technology	Automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule, optimising energy use when you’re not home or asleep.
Draughts	Seal any drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss. Opt for flush doors or solid core doors for a more precise fit with no gaps.
Solar panels	If feasible, consider installing solar panels to generate renewable energy for your heating system.

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and heating costs while creating a more comfortable living environment. You may also be able to enhance aesthetics and boost property value at the same time. Win win.

Browse more budget renovation ideas, property development tips and ideas for kitchen and bathroom renovations inspired by the latest trends.

Eco friendly home ideas

Insulation
We’ve touched on this already but proper insulation is crucial for energy efficiency. Consider upgrading your loft, cavity walls and other key areas with high-quality insulation materials. This keeps your home cosy in winter and cool in summer, reducing your reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Renewable Energy Sources
Solar panels and heat pumps provide a significant step towards reducing your carbon footprint. Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight while heat pumps utilise renewable energy sources to provide heating and cooling.

Water-Saving Measures
Install water-efficient showerheads, toilets and washing machines to significantly reduce your water consumption. Consider rainwater harvesting systems to collect and utilise rainwater for gardening and other non-potable uses.

Sustainable Materials
When renovating or decorating your home, choose sustainable materials such FSC Certified doors made from responsibly sourced wood. These materials have a lower environmental impact than traditional materials and can create a more eco-friendly living space.

Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances (refrigerators, washing machines and dryers) to significantly reduce your energy consumption. Look for appliances with high energy-efficiency ratings and take note of smart features that allow you to monitor and control energy use.

Learn more about biophilic design and wellness design by reading our detailed trend reports. Add a little extra nod to the natural world with our earth tones interior design decorating tips.

Eco friendly house examples

A modern, sustainable home might have some unexpected features that go beyond the usual eco friendly home improvements .

Expect to see rainwater harvesting systems to collect rainwater for gardening or flushing toilets. In addition to composting systems which divert food waste from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for the garden.

Living walls or a green roof could also be incorporated, adding greenery and improving air quality. Natural pools, glass sliding doors and rustic materials introduce more ways to connect with the wild.

Some homes may even feature greywater recycling systems that reuse water from showers and sinks for purposes such as watering plants. These unique features demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and a holistic approach to eco-friendly living.

Eco friendly house features
Entrance doors, interior doors & patio doors

Doors are an integral part of both energy efficiency and temperature control.

Upgrading to double- or triple-glazed windows and doors with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings significantly reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This not only lowers your energy bills but also ensures your comfort as the seasons change.

But which doors are the most energy efficient? For interior doors, solid core doors are generally the most energy-efficient option. They offer good sound insulation and help to contain heat within a room.

Meanwhile composite front doors are often considered the most energy-efficient due to their multi-layered construction and insulation properties. They also offer excellent security and durability.

Patio doors have a number of benefits from boosting natural light to letting in fresh breeze. Modern uPVC patio doors with double or triple glazing are a highly energy-efficient choice. They provide good thermal insulation and reduce heat loss through the glass.

Bonus tip: When choosing any type of door, consider factors such as the door’s U-value (a measure of thermal transmittance), the quality of the seals and the overall fit and installation.

Learn more about composite doors and explore the latest patio door trends to help you make the most of your outdoor space.

Eco friendly home improvements made simple

There’s never been a better time to create a more sustainable and energy efficient home. The benefits include: reducing your environmental impact, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature and saving money on your energy bills. And it all starts with the right doors. From solid core internal doors to energy efficient French doors our collection has it all. Browse and order online or contact our team for more eco friendly home improvement ideas.