BCR 'Whole Building' Retrofit Process

Service Description

By taking a comprehensive ‘whole building’ approach and considering the following factors, we can create energy-efficient and sustainable homes. * Prioritizing Energy Efficiency: It is often said that "the most sustainable energy is the energy we don't use." The primary goal in retrofitting buildings is to conserve energy, not just generate it. Reducing demand first minimizes the size and operating costs of future upgrades to systems * Follow a "hierarchy of responsible retrofit": Behavioural changes: Taking appropriate measures to conserve energy. Optimal Insulation: Maximizing insulation and air tightness, while ensuring proper ventilation. Efficient Heating: Installing a correctly sized heating system to meet specific needs. Harnessing Solar Power: Incorporating solar collectors for hot water. Exploring Renewables: Considering other renewable energy sources for heating and electricity. * Understanding the Building's DNA: To achieve successful energy-efficient retrofits, it is essential to first understand the building's unique characteristics: Structural and Fabric Survey: Assess the building's construction, past performance, and energy consumption. Identifying Defects: Analyze existing defects, past alterations and repairs to inform the retrofit strategy. Damp Assessment: Understand how the building handles moisture, whether ‘open’ - through absorption and evaporation or ‘closed’ - barrier methods and impermeable materials. Exposure Evaluation: Consider the building's location and how it has weathered the elements. Thermal Performance: Use tools like air tightness testing and thermal imaging to identify areas for improvement. Planning Considerations: We advise on planning and building regulations. * Bringing it all together: Retrofit Coordination & Design: We analyze all this data to create an initial "Improvement Options Evaluation" which is then refined with your input to create a bespoke "Medium-Term Improvement Plan" - your strategic roadmap of what to upgrade and in what order. Works can be completed either in steps over a period of time to suit available funds or in a single phase. Please get in touch if you require advice or assistance with your retrofit plans.