Ways to save money this winter

Cavity Walls

A property built after 1920 is most likely to have a cavity wall. The cavity walls can be insulated by a professional company. The company would drill a number of holes in the mortar and fill the cavity with polystyrene beads, mineral fibre or expanding foam. The cavity wall insulation cost is often quickly paid back through the savings on energy.

Solid Wall

A property that was built before 1920 is likely to have a solid wall. Because solid walls don’t have a gap, they can’t be filled with insulating materials. Instead, the insulation has to be done from either side of the wall.

If you were to opt-in for internal solid wall insulation, then you would have to compromise on space as it would reduce your overall floor space. 

External wall insulation is a more common way of insulating solid walls as you don’t have to compromise on the floor space inside the house. 

Solid wall insulation is much more expensive than cavity wall insulation, however, it does increase the comfort of your home and if the energy prices are high, the savings are achieved quicker.

Doors

• Keyhole – buy a purpose-made cover that drops a metal disc over the keyhole.
• Letterbox – use a letterbox flap or brush, but remember to measure your letterbox before you buy one
• Gap at the bottom – use a brush or hinged flap draught excluder.
• Gaps around the edges – fit foam, brush or wiper strips like those used for windows.

Windows

• Self-adhesive foam strips – these are cheap and easy to install, but may not last long.
• Metal or plastic strips with brushes or wipers attached, which are long-lasting, but cost a little more.