Many of us are watching our pennies and looking for ways to save money.
Saving energy bills and insulating our homes are essential tasks that can help you reduce your monthly expenses while also reducing your carbon footprint….a win/win right?!
One of the most cost-effective ways to achieve this is by thinking carefully about the flooring you use around your home. By choosing the right flooring materials and making necessary upgrades, you can create a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly living space that will save you money in the long run.
Here are 4 tips on how to save on energy bills and insulate your home with cost effective flooring:
1. Choose the right material
This will depend on where in the home you intend to install a new floorcovering. Do you have underfloor heating? Is the room over a garage that is colder than the rest of your home?
Carpet - Carpets help to reduce noise and have natural insulation properties, Look for a carpet and underlay with a high tog rating.
Wood - This has good insulation properties which can be improved by using an underlay.
2. Install underlay
Underlay is a layer of material that goes underneath the flooring. It acts as a barrier between the flooring and the subfloor and traps a layer of air between the flooring and the underlay which helps with heat retention, it also helps to reduce noise levels. If you have underfloor heating, you will need a special low tog underlay, with a carpet a higher tog rated underlay is better.
3. Use rugs
Rugs add an extra layer of insulation to your home. They also add warmth and comfort to your living spaces.
4. Seal gaps and cracks
Before installing your flooring, seal any gaps or cracks, especially between your floor and skirting boards. This will prevent drafts and air leaks, which can increase your energy bills and has the added benefit of stopping black edges on carpets caused by drafts.
For rooms that are colder than the rest of the house, such as over a garage, it may be worth installing thermal insulation boards under the underlay. These improve heat loss and are also a good way of helping to sound proof the room.
In conclusion, by selecting your flooring carefully you can save on your energy bills and insulate your home. With so many options available, it's easy to find the perfect flooring to suit your needs and budget.
If you’re interested in upgrading your home’s flooring or would like some advice, our friendly team of experts are always happy to be of assistance.
We’re open Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm. Please call in, we’d love to help!
