Light emitting diodes or LEDs have long been talked about as the sustainable and cost efficient future for lighting. It’s only now that LED lights for home use have emerged from being a tantalising possibility to a mainstream option that can match huge energy savings with the right sort of light at sensible prices, albeit with some caveats.

This is a highly technical subject, but lack of an insulation vapour barrier can lead to serious damp problems. It applies particularly to internal insulation.

Internal wall insulation is insulation of the internal surface of external (heat losing) walls, so it is an alternative to external wall insulation. If you are having a new kitchen or bathroom this is an unmissable opportunity to insulate the walls before installing the new fitments. Likewise if you plan to redecorate  this is good time.

Mid floor flats can be kept warm by adjacent flats, above, below and on both sides and then eco renovation is only needed on the exposed wall and windows and for improved heating, ventilation and lighting.

Yes, you can! MVHR system installation in a Victorian house can even be DIY’d but there will be some challenges as this video explains.

Itteringham Mill in the Norwich area is a guest house with a difference. It is also a SuperHome! This means it is a great place to stay if you want to find out what it feels like to live in a converted mill that has been made over 60% more carbon efficient by a major retrofit and innovative use of renewable energy.

What is a U-value and how do you explain its importance in a way that connects? Enter the world of When Alan met Sharon (A U-value Romance), a story which leads us in just 2 minutes 44 seconds to a deeper understanding of both U-values and the art of seduction.

To truly green your home you should work to improve the building fabric first. For older properties the 3 steps below will produce greater comfort, lower energy bills and lower carbon emissions by giving you a structure around your living spaces which keeps the heat you pay for where you want it  – in your home.

There are a growing number of Green Open Home Networks across the UK hosting annual events to encourage you to retrofit and refurbish your home. They usually take place in the months shown. For groups opening for the first time in 2014 also see the Green Open Homes website.

The Sustainable Traditional Building Alliance has voiced strong concerns in its report, Responsible Retrofit of Traditional Buildings, which examines existing research and guidance on the retrofit of pre-1919 buildings.