New climate data for thermal modelling of buildings will help building designers better take into account overheating. In this article we cover: Recent modelling data from Met Éireann shows that overheating is “expected to become more severe in the future”. On new builds, typical ways to prevent overheating include designing the house so that large […] More
Architect Hugh Wallace says Ireland needs a zero VAT rate for home improvements, and vacant homes grants need less red tape. In this article we cover Hugh Wallace’s presentation at the Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) 2023 conference, including: Architect and TV personality Hugh Wallace railed against the VAT regime, building regulations, and conservation officers’ inconsistent […] More
If you’re thinking of installing an air to water heat pump, find out what your options are what to look out for. In this article we cover: A round the turn of the millennium, the market for heat pumps in Ireland (north and south) was still in its infancy – only a handful of heat […] More
Upgrade your home to be more energy efficient and discover a new world of comfort, thanks to this simple guide from Pipelife Eco. Why should you invest in a home energy upgrade? Every home is different and has unique heating requirements. Often, a heating system upgrade comes about because of a breakdown or to upgrade […] More
Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) has a lot to offer as a construction method – here are the benefits. In this article we cover: Airtightness Unlike a porous concrete block, ICF gives you a monolithic concrete core wrapped with a continuously insulated blanket, giving you an airtight house that allows the internal temperature to be controlled […] More
Insulating concrete formwork (ICF) is now a popular way to build Irish homes; here are the pros and cons. In this article we cover: In the ever changing world of modern methods of construction, Insulating Concrete Formwork is up there with the best of them, says Daithí McGourty. Over the years working on large commercial […] More
Where to start with your house design in Ireland, from getting your design brief just right to house shapes and sizes. In this article, Les O’Donnell talks about: The design brief: what to include in it, what to avoid Working with an architectural designer: what to expect Common house shapes and sizes to maximise energy […] More
Practical house design is a balancing act. At the end of it you will get a beautiful, functional and affordable eco home. In this article, Les O’Donnell talks about: The basic principles of good house design How to approach your self-build How to design a contemporary home suitable for modern day living How to define […] 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
An Oireachtas Committee was told buildings account for one third of all emissions in Ireland. Houses in Ireland today pollute as much as agriculture, if both operational carbon (the energy used to run the home) and embodied carbon (the energy it takes to build, repair and demolish) are taken into account. That’s a figure the […] 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
Local authorities are offering up to €50k for you to renovate a vacant property to live in. In this article we cover: In a bid to tackle dereliction and encourage people to move back to rural towns and villages, the ROI government is now offering renovators up to €50,000 to refurbish vacant buildings. Croí Cónaithe […] More
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