Renovate an estate-style house for energy efficiency
Estate-style houses and energy efficiency
Estate-style houses are typically built with brick veneer walls, a concrete slab on the ground, aluminium windows and a metal roof. Concrete slabs are more efficient that uninsulated timber floors, and they provide excellent thermal mass when paired with areas of north facing glass. The sun will heat up the concrete or tiles in winter and release the heat during the night.
What will renovations cost?
| Cost | Saving | |
|---|---|---|
| Draught proofing | $1,650 | $100 |
| Insulation – Ceiling | $2,070 | $150 |
| Insulation – Wall | $1,900 | $230 |
Assumed improvements to existing estate style home with 145m2 floor area in Melbourne climate zone, 'always home' usage profile, Lee, T., Wu, C., Guthrie, K. and Dewsbury, M., 2014. Costs rounded to nearest $5.
Renovation tips for estate-style homes
Smart lighting
Adding LED lighting options and installing the right light for the task at hand will give you a well-lit and energy efficient renovation. Pendant lights are great in smaller rooms and over dining tables. Downlights should only be over kitchen or bathroom benches where you need direct light.
Update windows
Any uncovered, aluminium windows may be the cause of a house that's too hot or too cold. Consider upgrading your windows over time or as part of your renovation. Add curtains and pelmets to stay warm in winter.
Draught-proof your home
Draught-proof your home by placing covers over air conditioning vents during winter. This will keep the warm air inside your rooms. Install covers in your roof space over exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen. This will prevent air from leaking into your roof.
