42070
28 April 2025

Striking the right balancebetween ventilation and heat savings with window repairs

A 70-80% reduction in draughts still allows for 20-30% background ventilation, reducing the risk of damp and condensation.

Draught proofing in older buildings should never come at the expense of necessary ventilation. The goal is to make a building more comfortable and energy efficient while respecting its original design and ensuring it continues to breathe properly.

For instance, a 70-80% reduction in draughts still allows for 20-30% background ventilation, reducing the risk of damp and condensation. A 100% seal is not only expensive to achieve but is also undesirable. All buildings need to allow for a healthy exchange of stale air for fresh air. Traditional buildings, and indeed many retrofits of 20th century buildings, must address breathability, allowing moisture to move through the fabric relatively freely. Regular window opening should complement background ventilation to maintain a healthy indoor environment. In some cases, for instance if there is an underlying damp issue, further mechanical ventilation may be required.

By understanding where and how air movement occurs, conservation professionals can implement solutions that improve energy efficiency without introducing risks of damp and deterioration. Whether through traditional draught stripping methods or modern glazing technologies, a well-planned approach to draught proofing ensures that historic buildings remain comfortable, sustainable, and structurally sound for the future.

Draught proofing in period buildings is a specialist task that requires careful planning and an understanding of traditional construction methods. Retrofitting energy efficiency measures without compromising the building's integrity is challenging and working with an experienced company likeMitchell & Dickinsonis highly recommended.

A contractor with expertise in historic buildings will be able to identify key areas of heat loss quickly. Their knowledge ensures that the most appropriate solutions are applied, balancing modern energy efficiency standards with traditional building materials and techniques. Conservation specialists will also be familiar with the nuances of listed buildings and conservation areas, ensuring that all work is compliant with regulations and does not detract from the historic character of the property.

An experienced team can provide tailored recommendations, from selecting the right type of secondary glazing to advising on underfloor insulation techniques that maintain breathability. With professional input, homeowners and conservation professionals can significantly reduce heat loss while preserving the integrity of the building.

For more information on Mitchell & Dickinson, call 01237 871 127 or visitwww.mitchellanddickinson.co.uk  

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With compliments:

Taylor Alden
media@tayloralden.co.uk