5 home improvements that save you money in the long run

They say you've got to spend money to make money. This is nowhere more apparent than in the world of home improvements.

Many people, however, shy away from making those much-needed improvements. It's understandable – a big payment is a big decision that's not to be taken lightly.

That said, many of these improvements will save you money in the long run – from heating to insulation to our speciality, windows and doors.

This is primarily a case of making your home more energy-efficient. And when that's the aim, financial help is sometimes available.

5 home improvements that will save you money

1. Draught-proofing

Does your house have a draught? Sealing those unwanted cracks is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve your home's thermal efficiency.

You can either do it yourself or get a professional to do the job for you. Either way, it's estimated to save you between £25 and £35 a year.

2. Loft insulation

If your property has a loft, you may be losing heat unnecessarily. Getting your loft insulated can help slash your heating bills and carbon footprint. This is possible whether you have a "cold loft" or one with heating.

MoneySuperMarket estimates that loft insulation in a typical semi-detached house will cost, on average £930, and save £270 a year. Meanwhile, a detached house can cut its CO2 emissions by 1,000 kilogrammes a year.

3. Solar panels

Solar panels work by capturing energy from the sun and converting it into electricity. They provide free, renewable and clean electricity.

As well as cutting your electricity bills, solar panels let you store extra electricity for later use – or sell it to the grid. 

The savings can be considerable. Energy Saving Trust estimates that "a typical home solar panel system could save around one tonne of carbon per year".

4. Getting a new boiler

If you've got an old boiler, you could be spending more than you need on your heating bills. That's because modern boilers are much more efficient, especially those of the condensing variety.

But the advantages of a new boiler don't stop at energy efficiency and lower bills. They can also be space-saving. This is all thanks to a combination of advances in technology and efficiency regulations such as Boiler Plus.

5. Upgrading your windows

Did you know that 18% of heat loss is because of old windows? This makes them one of the biggest culprits for energy inefficiency in homes across the UK.

By upgrading windows, you're improving their thermal performance and saving money in the long run by cutting your electricity bills.

This could be a case of upgrading your single-glazed windows to double or triple glazing. It could mean adding a secondary pane to an existing window. Or it could be as simple as fitting your windows with heavier curtains.

Whatever you choose, you need to make sure you get windows with a high energy rating. These ratings run from E (lowest) to A++ (highest). Calder Windows' triple-glazed windows meet the BFRC's A++ rating. 

Can I get help with the cost of home improvements?

The most common barrier to home improvements is the initial outlay. You can, of course, pay for them on credit. But there are also schemes available to help you with the cost, on the condition that the result is a more energy-efficient home.

If you're looking into installing insulation, a new boiler or a renewable heating system, you could apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the Connected for Warmth insulation scheme, the Energy Company Obligation scheme, the Great British Insulation Scheme or the Home Upgrade Grant scheme.

As with all such schemes, you should check whether you're eligible before applying.

Do you live in an older home?

If you live in an older home, you may be resigned to the idea that it will always be draughty and energy-inefficient. In fact, old homes can have modern standards of performance with the right repairs and maintenance.

Improvements that will save you money in the long run include internal and external shutters for enhanced thermal control, roof insulation, and hot water storage tank and pipe insulation.

You can also replace the windows to ensure the heat stays in or out, depending on the weather. This will have the added advantage of improving the durability and security of your windows.

Should I get spray foam insulation?

Some companies and customers swear by spray foam insulation. However, the government advises against it, pointing to "risks that could cost you money" and potentially undo its money-saving effects.

These include condensation, dampness, property devaluation and the risk of covering problems such as leaks or damaged wood that should be fixed. The government advises you to seek independent advice from a building surveyor before committing to spray foam insulation.

What if you're a renter?

When it comes to home improvements, renters have different rights than homeowners. If you're a renter, you must seek your landlord's permission before making any improvements.

Your landlord should make improvements if your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) classifies your home as band F or G. However, homes in this band can be registered as exempt from minimum standards of energy efficiency.

Complaining to your landlord or letting agent about a lack of home improvements can be risky. In some cases, it can lead to eviction. For this reason, it can be advisable to seek independent advice from a housing charity before complaining.

What if you live in social housing?

If you live in social housing, the landlord is legally obliged to make sure your heating and insulation are up to standard and your home is "reasonably warm". If this isn't the case, you have the right to request repairs and improvements.

Are you looking to upgrade your windows? When you buy double-glazing from Calder Windows, we'll upgrade you to triple glazing at no extra cost. Get in touch today to take advantage of this cash-saving offer.