How to renovate for energy efficiency

Optimising the way our homes use energy is very important. Houses generate over a fifth of Spain’s annual CO2 emissions. It might seem like a big task, but with the right steps in place, an energy-efficient retrofit is easily within reach.

The push for energy-efficient homes in Spain

When it comes to energy, 80% of Spanish buildings are classed as very inefficient. An initiative has been announced that will see over €7.8 billion put towards energy efficiency in public, private, and social housing buildings.

The Spanish government is also promoting initiatives around energy renovation and improving efficiency. They say it is a current priority.

Benefits of a green home renovation

Improving your homes energy efficiency has a multitude of potential benefits for both you and the environment, including:

• Responsible energy consumption
• Greater comfort and better standards of living
• Increased house value
• A more desirable house upon resale

When should I renovate?

Only you can decide when you’re ready to take on a new home remodelling project. Energy efficiency might be the main reason for renovating or it might be a factor in other plans such as an extension.

Either way, it’s important to have the right team around you. Make sure to do thorough research and consult experts, so that your renovations are of the highest quality.

First step - Carry out an audit

Before starting your energy retrofit or renovation, you will need to assess your property. When and how was it built? Which areas are most in need of an upgrade?

In reality, you might find there are many areas that could be improved. 55% of homes in Spain were built before 1980 and 36% were built between the 60s and 80s without following any regulations on energy efficiency.

So, where does heat really escape from? You might be surprised. According to the Energy Saving Trust in the UK, buildings tend to lose heat in the following way:

Walls	33%
Roof	26%
Windows	18%
Ventilation	12%
Floor	8%
Doors	3%

 

Breakdown of the causes of average domestic home heat loss – Energy Saving Trust

Improving insulation

Insulation is key when it comes to energy efficiency. Good insulation helps to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. You might also notice noise reduction.

Walls, attics, floors, and roofs should be properly insulated. However, exactly what you need depends on your home and this is something that an expert can assist with.

Preventing thermal bridges

Thermal bridges might sound complicated, but ultimately it’s just the areas where heat is transferred and then lost between the interior and exterior of a building.

On warm days, this might mean you get unwanted heat entering the house, on cold days, it will cause inefficient heating.

Replacing doors and windows

Doors and windows are considered a weak point when it comes to energy savings in buildings. A lot of heat can escape through inefficient windows which might be single glazed or poorly fitted, allowing air leakages.

Heat recovery ventilation systems

You might have heard of the Passive House movement, which aims to build houses to a very high standard of eco-efficiency. One of the elements of a Passive House is an HRV or heat recovery ventilation system.

This system brings in filtered, fresh air which is then warmed to the right temperature before it is introduced to the home. Old air is expelled. This can improve comfort and importantly provide a way to regulate airflow through a house.

EPIC Constructions – Your Mallorcan experts

At Epic Constructions, we specialise in building and renovation projects across Mallorca, using high-quality materials and excellent finishes. We deliver forward-thinking and bespoke constructions.

Whether you need renovations, restorations, or luxury constructions, our team can help you achieve the highest standards.

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