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Insulation – Insulating any accessible loft areas is a cost-effective way to improve occupant comfort and reduce energy consumption. Where insulation is present but is less the 15cm (6 inches) thick, top it up.
Damp – Damp causes significant damage to the building structure and reduces its insulating properties. It can also lead to mould growth in the building fabric, which can be a health risk to building occupants.
Check around building joins, including skirtings, window and door frames and between the roof and wall. If some areas of the wall feel colder than others, it could be an early warning sign of damp. Repair split down-pipes, faulty gutters and leaky roof tiles. Check for signs of damp and condensation at least once a year, preferably prior to winter months. Seek specialist help to resolve problems as soon as possible – delaying it will increase repair costs and your heating bills.
Pipework insulation – Check insulation is present and dry. Replace any missing or damaged sections. All external pipes should be insulated using weatherproof insulation to at least 50mm, to reduce heat loss and protect against frost damage. Internal pipes should have at least 25mm of insulation. Don’t forget flanges and valves should ideally have removable insulation, to allow access for maintenance.
Windows – Check windows fit well within their frames and are not cracked or damaged. They should also be clean enough to allow maximum daylight to enter the space.
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