Energy-efficient windows:

The size, position, glazing and frame composition of windows all influence how much heat or cold they gain or lose for your house.

Cleverly placed windows with sound insulation and specialised glass can significantly reduce your home’s energy use. They will prevent heat loss during the winter, keep your home cooler in the summer and can also reduce noise pollution.

Windows should seal well, a good point to consider during a renovation. About 20% of a home’s heating is often lost through the windows. Most of this warm air seeps out through gaps in the frames rather than the glass.

We can work with you to install windows to the north to capture the winter sun. Using shading and eaves to prevent direct hot summer sun from hitting the windows directly is also very effective. West-facing windows tend to get low-angled, hot afternoon summer sun. Another option is removing or shading these windows where appropriate. Louvres and openable windows are also a good idea as they take advantage of the prevailing breezes to get rid of heat, moisture and stale air. Their design and style should enable passive ventilation, not prevent it.

Walls and floors with high thermal mass:

Depending on your current layout, we could suggest internal walls and flooring with high thermal mass such as stone, tiles, polished concrete, or compressed earth to regulate room temperatures. Heat is stored in them and released at night. By using eaves, the floor won’t get hit with sun over summer. Instead, it will soak up excessive heat, thereby cooling down the room.

Internal doors:

Draught-proofed internal doors to section off heated and air-conditioned areas are another very easy way to reduce energy costs.

Effective Insulation:

Many Auckland homes are cold and draughty. In fact, it’s estimated nearly half of New Zealand homes aren’t properly insulated. This creates a range of health issues as well as huge power bills.

In winter, 25-35% of an uninsulated home’s warmth is lost through the roof. Over summer, an uninsulated home will not be protected from the outside heat. Proper insulation will help regulate the temperature in your home.

Ceiling and underfloor insulation are the most effective. However, we would recommend insulating the whole shell of the house: ceiling, roof, walls and floors, including the sides or the undersides of concrete slabs on the ground. There are different kinds of materials used for insulation. Wool, recycled wool, and wool polyester are the most eco-friendly insulation options.