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350 new lung cancer cases are linked to exposure to the radioactive gas in ROI each year, with Munster and Connaught the regions most affected. OI’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently updated its radon map, which shows 170,000 homes are now predicted to be at risk from radon (red being the most affected). That’s 36 […] More
How David and Christine Adams’ contemporary new build house came in £20k under budget. In this article David and Christine Adams share their experience building their new home, including: I grew up on the farm, and my plan was always to move back home,” says David. “A few years after Christine and I got married, […] More
The pandemic has focused self-builders’ minds on the already popular topic of going off grid, meaning no electricity, gas, water or sewerage connections. But how feasible is it to totally disconnect, asks Patrick Waterfield. In this article we cover: The prospects of freedom from utilities, a more sustainable lifestyle and overall greater independence, especially in […] More
Matthew and Hannah Sterrett of @ourweecountryhome share their story of building what they call the tin house: how it started and the obstacles they came up against. In this article they talk about: Contents Part 1 – Avoiding the rent trap – Skip to Part 1 Part 2 – The tin roof – Skip to […] More
Resident construction expert John Corless chats about flash points to consider when building your home, including: • Managing heat loss, U-values and airtightness• Ventilation• Insulation• Space and water heating including thoughts on PV• Intermediate floors• Roofs• Contracts• List of other considerations: security, waste, health and safety, equipment hire, etc. Michael Doherty of the Mica Action […] More
In this windows step by step guide, find out when and how to order your windows and what to expect at the end. In this article, we cover the stages of choosing and installing your windows including: Step 1: Design and shop around for your windows The planning stage is the best time to get […] More
The new building regulations came into force on June 30, 2022. Patrick Waterfield shares what you need to know. Draft Technical Booklet F1 was published at the beginning of this year and is now published in its final form. The change is expected to increase the cost of commissioning and constructing buildings. Carbon target This […] More
Frames are an important part of making your windows and doors secure, but crucial too are their locks, latches, screws and hinges. When it comes to window and door furniture, you don’t have to settle for the factory standard, but remember that, unless you specify otherwise when placing your order, that’s exactly what you’ll get. […] More
Your window performance checklist if you’re building new or extending in Ireland today, from U-values to air leakage. In this article we cover: Windows have to tick a lot of boxes to make them fit for purpose. When comparing technical parameters, the basic point to remember is that there’s a big difference in performance […] More
How to apply for your grant to upgrade the energy efficiency of your home in Ireland today. And whether or not it’s worth it. In this article we cover: ROI grants have received a cash injection. Amounts for attic and cavity insulation almost triple and more people can apply for heat pump and solar grants. […] More
Whether you go with double or triple glazing windows will have an impact on costs, and even on your house construction. Another reason why you need to choose your windows early. In this article we cover: Double and triple glazing In a new build, you will need double or triple glazing. Double or IGU […] More
You will need to carefully select the type of frame to match the style of your house. In this article we cover: Window parts A typical window is made up of the following: Head and sill Top and bottom horizontal frames. The sill has a groove on the underside to ensure water drips away from […] More
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