Monday, September 26, 2011
Category:
Secured Loans
It has been predicted that winter will be arriving early this year, whilst utility bills continue to increase. Therefore, the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) is encouraging homeowners to ‘take advantage of the simple solutions currently on the market that can help properties retain heat and save on energy costs’.
The NAEA has offered the following tips to those who are looking to make these improvements:
- Cavity-wall insulation: The benefits of insulated walls can be felt straight away because they harness the heat generated in the property, which in turn results in significant savings. This type of job should be carried out by a specialist installer who is Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA) qualified.
- Draught-stripping: Draughts and air permeation in a property can be greatly reduced by installing specialist foam around doors and windows, which assists with heat retention and results in savings.
- Replacing your boiler: By replacing an old boiler with a new one, emissions and bills can both be reduced. The funding database on the Energy Saving Trust website can be checked to find specific details on what incentives are available.
- Loft insulation: This is a ‘cheap and easy’ means of topping up existing insulation. For optimum efficiency, it is recommended that the insulation thickness is increased to between 250mm and 300mm.
- Pipe cladding: Well insulated external pipes can minimise additional heat loss and can reduce the chances of freezing in the event of a property being left unoccupied during a cold spell.
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Homeowners who would like to make improvements to their property, but cannot currently afford to do so, could consider taking out a secured loan. One of many finance options available,
secured loans for home improvements could allow borrowers to embark upon an array of projects in and around their property. Energy-saving measures could be put in place, in addition to any other work that is required or desired. For example, homeowners who have been longing to re-decorate and re-furbish their property could make this a reality.
