Thinking of a renovation or perhaps a new build? Cowan Building looks at what you can do to future-proof your home and investment to ensure the long-term sustainability of your property. 

 

Future-proofing your home cannot only increase the value of your property, but it can also save you money in the long run while making it very attractive to possible future residents. Particularly when it comes to heating and cooling. However, many homeowners building from scratch or considering an extensive renovation of an existing property tend to overlook the advantages of future-proofing. 

 

With the cost of living at an all-time high, and climate change featuring heavily in the media, homeowners are encouraged to look at the advantages of future-proofing when undertaking any building work.

 

The great news is with a bit of consideration and investing in the right things with your new build, you can substantially secure your investment well into the future. While also saving money on power, having a healthier, warmer home in the winter, and building a home that will be much more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

 

Heating & Double Glaze

One of the easiest ways to future-proof your home is to invest in a good quality heat pump and consider double-glazing options for your windows and glass doors. Double glazing can reduce heat loss from escaping the glass by a whopping 83%. Meaning your home will stay warmer for longer during the coldest parts of the year. This can save you hugely on the cost of electricity and allow your heating sources to be much more efficient in warming and keeping your home warm. Double glazing can also reduce noise by 70%, a win-win if you live in a busy neighbourhood.

 

Heat pumps have also come a long way over the past decade. Many new models are super energy efficient while producing good quality warmth for your home. A high-grade heat pump system can keep your family warm and healthy all winter. 

 

Also, consider:

• Reducing drafts

• Updating insulation

• Installing extraction fans in bathrooms

• Good quality external range hoods in kitchens

 

Increasing your home's ability to ventilate and retain heat while reducing moisture is a big step in the right direction for future-proofing your home.

 

Going Green

Solar power is also a good option for those wanting to build a sustainable home that will last well into the future. Considering this investment can also save you money in the future. Particularly for heating water sources and harvesting electricity. The popularity of self-sustaining homes will only increase in the years to come. Although it can be a costly investment, the benefits and appeal will only reap the rewards in the future. 

 

As demand increases for electric vehicles, adding charging points can also increase value while ensuring your home's future appeal. In addition, going green with your home renovation or new build can help improve your property's efficiency. 

 

Also, consider replacing old appliances with new ones. Many of the outdated appliances drain energy and can be costly to run. Modern appliances are built to be very energy efficient; this will save you money and allow your home to be much more environmentally friendly. This can be your regular appliances – think ovens and tumble dryers – to installing new water-friendly toilets and restrictors in showers.

 

The Rise of the Home Office

The home office has undoubtedly seen a significant surge in popularity since the pandemic. Creating the perfect workplace is highly appealing, and this trend is only set to continue for many years to come, as the work/home balance has been completely rewritten since COVID-19. It's a good idea to think about this when renovating or starting your new build. It is much easier to consider what wiring you'll need before you start than trying to install it afterward. WIFI connections, USB ports, and the like should be carefully considered during the initial stages.

 

Think outside the box! USB charging points on Island benches in kitchens are also increasing in popularity. The home office or workstation does not need to be a completely separate room. In the planning stages, thinking through what tech you need and where you need it can ensure your home is not only future-proofed but also considerably more functional. 

 

Getting Techy

Innovative technology is only set to increase from lights and heating applications that can be turned on from your phone to remote alarm systems and cameras. There are oodles of smart tech for the modern home. Keeping up to date with this type of technology will only increase the value of your home and its ongoing appeal.

 

Other Tips

·      Consider multigenerational spaces and features that suit the young and the old

·      Making your leisure areas more inviting – updating decks and pools

·      Create flexible spaces

·      Make doorways and corridors wider

·      Choose a sustainable design

·      Sound-proofing options

 

With a bit of consideration, you can invest in a little – or a lot – when it comes to future-proofing your home, allowing it to grow and change with you as the years tick by, while also increasing its value and appeal.