Developments in the materials used in insulation mean that homes in the UK are changing for the better - there are many synthetic materials like PIR and phenolic foam boards, as well as natural versions like hemp and sheep wool.

The Great British Insulation Scheme, another government initiative to help improve energy efficiency in homes, helps homeowners, landlords and tenants afford better insulation to reduce a property's energy bills.

According to the UK House of Commons Library, an estimated 5.1 million properties in Great Britain with cavity walls have no cavity wall insulation, which suggests a huge opportunity for energy savings and improvement.

Smart home technology

Smart thermostats allow you to control heating and monitor usage in real-time. Smart plugs, radiator valves, and lighting systems can also help save electricity and energy consumption and reduce unnecessary heating of unused spaces. Being able to look at data and automate energy use can help households cut down waste and reduce bills – that’s why nearly 30% of UK homes are now using at least one form of smart energy tech.

Solar panels and battery storage systems

In England, solar panels are expected to be legally required for almost all new homes starting in 2027, which could save homeowners more than £1,000 per year on energy costs. Another thing becoming more popular is battery storage, as it allows homes to store and use solar energy even when the sun isn't shining.

Government incentives such as zero VAT on solar panels (until April 2027) facilitate the transition for retrofits.

Sustainable building materials

Low-impact, high-performance, and long-lasting materials are becoming more and more popular in the construction industry. Lime-based plasters, FSC-certified wood, recycled insulation, and eco-cement substitutes like geopolymer concrete are a few examples. In addition to reducing embodied carbon, these materials improve the thermal efficiency of homes.

Tradespeople and homeowners are also favouring breathable materials that regulate humidity and air quality, particularly important in older UK properties.

Retrofit solutions for older homes

With millions of period homes across the UK, energy retrofitting has become a high priority. Popular improvements include:

Secondary and double glazing
Internal and external wall insulation
Draught-proofing and floor insulation
High-efficiency boilers and low-carbon heating

Schemes like the Home Upgrade Grant and Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) help make these energy-efficient changes more affordable for low-income households.

How to stay ahead

Regular inspections help to spot heat loss, appliances that aren’t efficient, and poor insulation - being proactive is vital. To stay up to date with new materials and technologies, you can take part in product training or Continuing Professional Development sessions. Working with registered experts and installers ensures that you meet current requirements and are eligible for government funding. Websites like the Energy Saving Trust have helpful things such as guidance, grant eligibility tools, and household calculators.

In addition to helping homeowners, staying up to date with energy trends offers tradespeople a competitive advantage in a market that is increasingly focused on sustainability.

How can Travis Perkins help?

We are always proud to help homeowners, landlords, and trade professionals on their path to energy efficiency as one of the top builders’ merchants in Britain.

From solar PV kits, LED lighting, and smart home appliances to underfloor insulation boards and loft insulation rolls, we have a large selection of energy-efficient products in stock.

Our in-store experts can help you with planning full retrofit solutions, deciding product compatibility, and figuring out which systems are most appropriate for different kinds of properties, like new construction or Victorian terraces.

To aid you in making well-informed decisions based on your property and objectives, our website offers comprehensive buying guides, blog posts, and calculators. Renovating a home or building it from scratch, we’re here to help and provide trusted advice every step of the way.

Start to look at sustainable choices so that you can reduce costs and look forward to a greener future. You can really make a difference by keeping up with the most recent developments, from smart technology to new insulation, and not forgetting expert help!

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