ALKI DESIGN

architecture studio
wānaka, NZ

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ALKI DESIGN

architecture studio wānaka, NZ

The Comprehensive Benefits of Retrofitting New Zealand Homes
New Zealand’s performance-based Building Code was loosely derived from the Norwegian model and was New Zealand’s first nationwide Building Code. Before this, both central government and municipal authorities enforced building control legislation. While safety and structural issues were considered in the late nineteenth century, it took almost 100 years for a national building act to be established in 1991, with the New Zealand Building Code following in 1992. The performance code was selected over the common ‘prescriptive code’ to allow innovation and technology to be incorporated into New Zealand’s construction industry and to have a stronger focus on the durability of homes. However, B2 (durability) only covers 50 years, so homes built in the Pre, Inter, and Post War Eras are starting to degrade, requiring homeowners to retrofit, renovate, or simply live in dangerous, wet, cold, and toxic environments. With climate change redefining what ‘performance’ should mean in a building, retrofitting can offer significant benefits across various dimensions, including financial savings, improved health outcomes, and energy efficiency.
Financial Benefits

Reduced Energy Bills: One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits of retrofitting a home is the reduction in energy bills. Insulating walls, ceilings, and floors, along with upgrading windows to double glazing, can dramatically reduce the amount of energy required to heat or cool a home. This results in lower electricity or gas bills, providing homeowners with more disposable income over time.  Windows and doors are only as strong as their weakest part. So, although having triple or double glazed insulated glass is great, using this expensive glass in an aluminium frame (even thermally broken aluminium) is not as effective as one might hope. The orientation of glazing, glass-to-frame ratio, fixing windows to frame centres, and the material of joinery and seals make a large difference to heat loss and gains.

Windows and doors are only as strong as their weakest part - the frame.

Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly attractive to buyers. A well-insulated, energy-efficient home often has a higher market value compared to a less efficient counterpart.

By investing in retrofitting, homeowners can potentially increase the resale value of their property.

Government Incentives: The New Zealand government offers various incentives and subsidies for homeowners who choose to retrofit their homes. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront costs of improvements, making retrofitting a more affordable option for many.  Talk to us about Homestar and see where your bank can offer lower mortgage rates or rebates.

Many banks incentivise Homestar homes by offering lower mortgage rates or rebates.

Energy-Saving Benefits

Lower Carbon Footprint: Energy-efficient homes consume less energy, which means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Retrofitting helps New Zealand meet its environmental goals by reducing the overall carbon footprint of residential buildings.  

The most sustainable building is the building already built. By opting to retrofit, we save waste from our landfills and reduce the extraction of materials for new construction.

 

Sustainable Living: Using less energy for heating and cooling means relying less on non-renewable energy sources. This shift towards sustainability supports global efforts to combat climate change and encourages a culture of environmental responsibility.

 

Future-ProofingHomes: As energy prices rise and climate change impacts become more pronounced, energy-efficient homes will be better equipped to handle these challenges. Retrofitting now ensures that homes remain comfortable and affordable to run in the future.  

Consider installing solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, or other renewable energy systems to generate your own electricity and further reduce reliance on the grid. Integrating smart technology such as home automation can control lighting and heating from mobile devices, ensuring your home is powered when you need it – and conserving resources when you don’t.

Consider installing solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, or other renewable energy systems to generate your own electricity and further reduce reliance on the grid.

conclusion

Retrofitting New Zealand homes offers a trifecta of benefits: financial savings, improved health, and enhanced energy efficiency. By investing in these improvements, homeowners can enjoy a more comfortable living environment, lower their energy bills, and contribute to a sustainable future. The combined impact of these changes not only improves individual well-being but also supports national goals of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.