Energy Efficiency in Heritage Homes

This article addresses the most common questions about making heritage properties more energy efficient. We explore which improvements are typically allowed in listed buildings and conservation areas—from internal wall insulation and slimline double glazing to renewable heating systems. The piece explains how traditional buildings differ from modern construction, highlighting the importance of 'breathability' and appropriate materials. We outline the additional steps required for heritage home improvements, including planning permissions and building regulations. Finally, we explain how Furbnow's expertise helps homeowners navigate these complexities to create warmer, more comfortable heritage homes without compromising their historic character.

Living in a heritage property can be a wonderful experience, but when it comes to making your home more energy efficient, it can feel like navigating a complex maze of regulations, materials, and specialist advice. If you own a listed building or a home in a conservation area, you're likely wondering what's possible, what's permitted, and how to approach energy improvements while respecting your home's historic character.

At Furbnow, we believe that heritage homes can be both historically significant and energy efficient. Let's dive into the most commonly asked questions about making period properties warmer and more environmentally friendly.

Which energy efficiency improvements are allowed on a listed building or in a conservation area?

The good news is that most types of improvements can be made to heritage homes, though the methods and materials might differ from standard approaches. Each property needs to be individually assessed, but here are some of the options typically available:

Wall insulation options

Internal wall insulation can be an excellent solution as it doesn't affect your home's external appearance. However, this needs careful consideration if your property has important interior features like decorative plasterwork or original joinery.
External wall insulation is generally not permitted on listed buildings, but might be possible for some properties in conservation areas, particularly detached houses that are already rendered and not traditionally constructed.

Window solutions

While standard double glazing usually isn't permitted in heritage properties, there are several effective alternatives:

Slimline double glazing fitted into existing window frames
Secondary glazing installed behind original windows
Traditional shutters restored to working order
Insulated curtains and blinds - research by Historic England has shown these can significantly improve efficiency

Other insulation opportunities

Loft insulation is generally straightforward to install and won't affect heritage significance
Roof insulation for properties with rooms in the roof
Floor insulation for both suspended and solid floors, though installation requires careful planning

Heating and renewable energy

Air source heat pumps may be suitable for well-insulated heritage homes, with consideration for visual impact and historic settings
Biomass systems work well in rural locations
High heat retention storage heaters for properties that cannot be fully insulated
Solar panels may be an option, depending on roof orientation, structural capacity, and visual impact considerations

What will differ in the design and specification for heritage homes?

Heritage properties require a thoughtfully different approach to energy improvements. Understanding how your building 'works' is essential to achieving the right balance between efficiency and preservation.

The importance of 'breathability'

Listed buildings typically have traditional construction with vapour-permeable materials that allow moisture to enter and evaporate naturally. This 'breathability' is crucial to the building's health. Modern, impermeable materials can trap moisture in the original fabric, potentially causing decay.

Material considerations

Lime-based products (mortars, plasters, renders) are vital in traditional buildings. They remain somewhat flexible, allow vapour to pass through, and are sacrificial—meaning they'll deteriorate before causing damage to structural elements.
Vapour-permeable insulation options include sheep wool, wood fibre, and insulated lime plaster or limecrete. These materials improve warmth while maintaining the natural moisture cycle.

Bespoke solutions

Custom-made joinery may be needed rather than off-the-shelf products
Careful floor insulation techniques to preserve original floorboards
Appropriate ventilation strategies that respect historic features

While these approaches may sometimes be more complex than standard energy improvement methods, they ensure your heritage home remains structurally sound while becoming more comfortable and energy efficient.

What additional steps are required for heritage home improvements?

Improving energy efficiency in a heritage property typically involves additional approvals and considerations:

Planning permission and listed building consent

External changes generally require planning permission for both listed buildings and homes in conservation areas
Internal alterations to listed buildings usually require listed building consent, even if not visible from outside
Standalone installations like air source heat pumps and solar panels within your property boundary also require consideration

Building regulations

Most improvement work will need to comply with building regulations, which can be handled through:

Competent contractor schemes for certain types of work
Building regulations applications for larger projects, especially those involving fabric improvements

Professional support

Working with professionals who understand heritage properties is essential:

Architects or retrofit designers to prepare planning applications, heritage statements, and drawings
Structural engineers and services engineers for more complex projects
Specialist craftspeople who understand traditional building methods and materials

How Furbnow Can Help

At Furbnow, we understand that upgrading a heritage home requires specialist knowledge, careful planning, and attention to detail. Our approach for heritage properties includes:

Stage 1

Professional survey by experts who understand traditional building methods
Tailored Home Energy Plan that respects your property's heritage significance while improving comfort and efficiency

Stage 2

Expert advice on appropriate materials, techniques, and regulatory requirements
Vetted specialist contractors experienced in working with heritage buildings

Stage 3

Project management to ensure work is completed to the highest standard, with regular quality checks

We believe there's always a way to make improvements to heritage homes while preserving their character. The key is finding the right balance between heritage conservation and modern comfort—something we're passionate about helping homeowners achieve.

If you own a heritage property and want to make it warmer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient without compromising its historic character, get in touch with out team today.

Make your heritage home cosy without the carbon footprint—or the heritage compromise.