Beyond BER Ratings: The Hidden Benefits of a Deep Retrofit
When considering an SEAI home energy upgrade, most homeowners focus on the obvious benefits – lower energy bills and a better Building Energy Rating (BER). But beyond the numbers and cost savings, a deep retrofit offers a range of hidden advantages that can transform your home and your quality of life. From increased property value to improved comfort and even better health, here’s why investing in a deep retrofit is about more than just energy efficiency.
Boosting Property Value
When people think of increasing their home’s value, they often focus on cosmetic upgrades – new kitchens, modern bathrooms, or fresh landscaping. But one of the most cost-effective ways to increase property value is improving the home’s energy efficiency through a deep retrofit.
A home with a higher BER rating is far more attractive to potential buyers. Buyers today are increasingly aware of rising energy costs and are actively looking for properties that are cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in. A home with high-performance insulation, modern heating systems, and energy-efficient windows reassures buyers that they won’t face having to undertake upgrades themselves in the near future. In many cases, a home that has undergone a deep retrofit sells faster and at a higher price compared to one with outdated insulation and heating.
In addition to increasing market value, a deep retrofit future-proofs your home. As building regulations continue to tighten and energy efficiency standards become more important, homes with poor BER ratings may become harder to sell or rent in the future. Retrofitting now means you’re staying ahead of these changes and protecting the long-term value of your property.
Even if selling isn’t on your radar right now, a deep retrofit is an investment that pays off in multiple ways – not just in potential resale value but also in reduced maintenance costs, better living conditions, and long-term energy savings.
Better Indoor Air Quality
Many older homes suffer from poor ventilation, leading to issues like damp, mould, and stale air. A deep retrofit doesn’t just improve energy efficiency – it also transforms the air you breathe inside your home.
One of the key upgrades in a deep retrofit is the installation of a modern ventilation system. Traditional homes often rely on natural ventilation (like draughts and open windows), which can be inconsistent and ineffective. With a properly designed ventilation system, fresh air is continuously circulated throughout the house, helping to remove pollutants, allergens, and excess moisture.
This is especially beneficial for those with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions, as better air quality reduces exposure to dust, pollen, and indoor pollutants. It also helps prevent condensation and mould growth, which can cause serious health issues over time.
In winter, modern ventilation systems ensure that fresh air enters without creating cold draughts, while in summer, they help regulate humidity and keep the indoor environment comfortable. When combined with proper insulation and airtightness measures, these systems create a healthier, fresher living space all year round.
With a deep retrofit, you’re not just investing in energy savings – you’re investing in a home that supports your well-being.
Comfort All Year Round
A deep retrofit isn’t just about cutting energy bills – it transforms how your home feels in every season. Many homeowners associate insulation with keeping warm in winter, but a well-retrofitted home also stays cool and comfortable in summer.
During colder months, high-quality insulation, airtight construction, and upgraded heating systems work together to maintain a consistent, cosy temperature. No more cold drafts, uneven heating, or chilly spots in certain rooms. Modern heating solutions, such as heat pumps and underfloor heating, provide steady warmth without sudden temperature fluctuations, creating a more comfortable and predictable indoor environment.
In summer, the same airtightness and insulation that keep the heat in during winter now work to keep excess heat out. Many older homes overheat due to poor insulation, direct sunlight exposure, and lack of proper ventilation. A deep retrofit addresses this by using high-performance windows, insulated walls, and controlled ventilation systems that help maintain a cool, pleasant atmosphere, even during heatwaves.
The result? A home that feels just right – whether it’s the middle of winter or the height of summer. Instead of constantly adjusting thermostats or relying on fans and electric heaters, you’ll enjoy a naturally stable indoor climate, making your home a more relaxing and enjoyable place to live.
A Quieter, More Peaceful Home
We all know that a deep retrofit improves energy efficiency, but it also makes your home noticeably quieter. If you live near a busy road, in a built-up area, or simply want a more peaceful indoor environment, the right insulation and high-performance windows can significantly reduce outside noise.
Upgraded windows are a key part of this transformation. Older windows often let in a lot of noise because of thin glass, poor sealing, or outdated frames. Retrofitting your home with double or triple glazing creates a strong barrier against external sounds, whether it’s traffic, construction, or noisy neighbours. Modern windows also come with airtight seals, further reducing sound infiltration.
Insulation plays an equally important role. High-density insulation materials, such as those used in deep retrofits, don’t just keep the heat in – they also absorb and dampen sound. This is particularly beneficial if your home has thin walls, a loft conversion, or shared walls with neighbours. Properly insulated walls, floors, and roofs create a soundproofing effect that helps keep your home calm and undisturbed.
Finally, controlled ventilation systems included in retrofits ensure that fresh air circulates without the need to constantly open windows, which can let in unwanted noise. Instead of being woken by traffic in the morning or hearing every passing car, you can enjoy a quieter, more restful living environment – perfect for better sleep, improved focus, and a more relaxed home atmosphere.
A More Comfortable Home – All Year Round
A deep retrofit transforms your home into a place of consistent comfort, no matter the season. Many older homes in Ireland struggle with extreme indoor temperatures – too cold in winter, too hot in summer. By upgrading insulation, windows, and heating systems, a deep retrofit helps maintain a stable, comfortable temperature all year long.
Winter Warmth Without the Chill
In colder months, poor insulation and inefficient heating systems mean heat escapes easily, leaving rooms feeling cold and draughty. A deep retrofit addresses these issues by improving wall, roof, and floor insulation, reducing heat loss and creating a cosy indoor environment. With an upgraded heating system – such as a high-efficiency heat pump – your home stays warm without the need for constant thermostat adjustments.
Cooler Summers Without Overheating
While many people focus on staying warm in winter, summer comfort is just as important. Homes with poor insulation often trap heat, making upstairs bedrooms uncomfortably warm. A deep retrofit introduces better ventilation systems and insulation that prevent overheating, ensuring that even on the hottest days, your home remains cool and comfortable.
Eliminating Draughts and Cold Spots
Many homeowners notice that certain parts of their home – such as hallways, corners, or near windows – stay cold no matter how high the heating is turned up. This is often due to air leaks, poor insulation, or inefficient radiators. A retrofit fixes these issues by sealing gaps, upgrading windows, and optimising heating distribution, so every room in your home feels evenly warm.
The result?
A home that stays at the perfect temperature year-round, without the frustration of extreme hot or cold spots. With better insulation, efficient heating, and improved ventilation, your home won’t just be energy-efficient – it will be a far more pleasant place to live every single day.
The Leetherm One Stop Shop Advantage
A deep retrofit or home energy upgrade may seem like a big project, but with Leetherm’s One Stop Shop, we handle everything – from grant applications to project management – so you can enjoy the benefits without the stress.
Thinking about upgrading your home? Submit your enquiry today to see how a deep retrofit could transform your home beyond just its BER rating!
Leetherm is registered with SEAI as a One Stop Shop for home energy upgrades. Grants offered are provided by the Government of Ireland through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
The figures used in this blog post are for illustrative purposes only and based on typical savings from home energy upgrades. Actual savings will vary depending on factors such as home size, energy usage, and upgrade measures. Grant amounts and financing rates are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information and a personalised assessment, get in touch with Leetherm’s team today.
