Replacement doors may make homes more energy efficient

There are many reasons why people choose to invest in new period doors. In many cases, they do so for aesthetic purposes, while sometimes they purchase the doors to boost energy efficiency. Replacing ill-fitting and poorly designed or made products with new versions can minimise drafts and help consumers keep their homes warm.

It seems as though many homeowners in England and Wales could do with making improvements to the energy efficiency of their properties. A survey conducted by property services company LMS has found that private house and flat owners could bring down their bills by an average of £162 per year if they made certain modifications.

The poll, which was conducted last year, used Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and discovered that the average grade was ‘D’.

EPC grades range from ‘A’, which is the most efficient rating, to ‘G’ at the other end of the scale. According to LMS, most homes could move to a grade ‘C’.

The firm also revealed that the worst performing dwelling type was maisonettes, followed by bungalows and semi-detached houses. On the other hand, middle-floor flats were the best performing.

Commenting on the issue, LMS chief executive Andy Knee said: “With energy prices on the rise, we could see many more homeowners opting to improve the energy efficiency of their home in 2013, particularly with the government throwing its weight behind its new Green Deal scheme.”

He added: “As well as the significant monetary savings home-owners stand to make, and their property being more attractive to buyers and tenants, it could also help them to unlock more competitive mortgage products. Lenders are already beginning to open their eyes to the benefits of financing an energy efficient house with some already offering competitive rates to those that want to borrow more to pay for such improvements.”

As well as investing in improved Georgian doors or other door products, people may wish to replace their glazing and fit cavity wall and loft insulation.