Homeowners can save money on their energy bills by making simple changes to their flooring, an expert has revealed.
A flooring expert from Simply Underlay, explained “The type of flooring and underlay you choose can have a significant impact on your energy efficiency. Insulating your floors properly can help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.”
According to this expert, choosing the right underlay is key. “Underlay acts as an additional layer of insulation, helping to trap heat within your home. Many modern underlays are designed with materials that reflect heat, ensuring that warmth stays in the room rather than escaping through the floor.”
He continued: “Carpet underlay is particularly effective, as it adds an extra layer of warmth while also providing sound insulation. However, for those with hard flooring, there are also specific underlays that can be used with laminate, vinyl, or wooden floors to improve thermal efficiency.”
One of the most effective ways to lower energy costs, according to Simply Underlay, is by upgrading your flooring.
“If you have older, less efficient flooring, replacing it with more energy-efficient options can help. For example, modern carpets with thick, high-quality underlay can improve your home’s insulation and reduce your reliance on heating systems.”
Simply Underlay gave an example: “If you were to replace an old carpet with a new, high-quality one and a thick underlay, you could save up to £150 a year on your energy bills. This might not sound like a lot, but over time, these savings can add up, and the flooring could pay for itself.”
For those considering a more cost-effective solution, they also recommended adding extra insulation beneath existing floors.
“In many cases, homeowners don’t need to replace their entire flooring. Adding an insulated underlay beneath existing carpets or hard floors can make a noticeable difference to your heating bills. The investment can be as low as £30 per room but can save up to £100 a year on energy costs.”
However, they cautioned that while upgrading flooring can help reduce energy bills, it’s important to consider the bigger picture.
“Before making changes to your flooring, it’s vital to assess your home’s overall energy efficiency. You should ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed and that your home has adequate loft insulation to maximise the benefits of flooring upgrades.”
He also advised, “If you’re unsure about which flooring or underlay to choose, it’s always worth speaking to a professional. A flooring expert can help guide you to the best options based on your home’s needs and your budget.”
By following these simple flooring tips, homeowners can enjoy a more energy-efficient home and start saving on their energy bills.