Our dependence on fossil fuels is at an all-time high and for economic and environmental reasons it is vitally important that we save energy and reduce our carbon footprint. This book is essential reading for all those homeowners who wish to insulate their properties effectively in order to save energy, permanently reduce fuel bills and increase the comfort of their homes. The author emphasizes the 'do-it-yourself' elements of house insulation and provides readers with information to take the practical steps that will make them significant financial savings. In this book, the author: demonstrates the opportunities for real financial savings that insulation can provide year on year; emphasizes why insulation is such a good idea and discusses the main areas of the house that lose heat, concentrating on the building fabric; describes the tools, special clothing, materials and techniques that are required for DIY house insulation; explains why refurbishments, repairs or extensions all offer the opportunity to introduce insulation into your home; examines the Building Regulations, which set the quality, best practice and safety standards for home improvements and construction work; reviews the range of insulation materials that can be used, from natural substances such as hemp and sheep's wool, to mineral insulation such as glass wool, polystyrene and phenolic foam; considers the DIY opportunities to reduce the heat lost through external walls and through floors and roofs; demonstrates how heat is lost through draughts and ventilation and suggests some DIY jobs to minimize this; discusses energy-efficient glazing and potential savings by installing double and triple, gas-filled, high-efficiency glazing systems.

Autorentext

Andy McCrea has worked as a power engineer and as a senior figure within the energy industry for over thirty-five years. Since the late 1980s, he has been involved with energy efficiency and renewable energy, working closely with policy makers and regulators. In 2003 Andy became director of Action Renewables, which was established to promote the rapid development of renewable energy in Northern Ireland. Dr McCrea is a keen DIY enthusiast, a chartered engineer, a chartered environmentalist and a fellow of the Energy Institute. In 2004 he was awarded an MBE for services to the electricity industry.