Transforming a 1980s Home to a B2 BER – Retrofit Design Ltd Case Study
Why 1980's Homes in Ireland Need Retrofitting
Many Irish homes built in the 1980s were not designed with energy efficiency in mind. Poor insulation, outdated oil boilers, and single-glazed windows often led to high energy bills and low comfort levels.
In this case study, we show how one typical 1980s home retrofit in Ireland was completed – moving from an E2 BER rating to a B2 BER rating. The works not only reduced energy bills by more than 60% but also made the home warmer, healthier, and more valuable.
Before the Retrofit – The Homeowners’ Experience
- Thin insulation in attic and cavity walls, causing major heat loss
- An old oil boiler consuming large amounts of fuel
- Single-glazed windows and draughty doors, leaving rooms cold and uncomfortable
- Annual heating bills averaging €4,000
- A low E2 BER rating that affected resale value and mortgage eligibility
After the Retrofit – A 1980's Home Upgraded to B2 BER
- External wall insulation to eliminate heat loss
- High-performance triple-glazed windows and insulated doors for comfort and security
- An Air-to-Water heat pump with modern heating controls, replacing the oil system
- Solar PV panels to generate renewable electricity and reduce reliance on the grid
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) for fresh, filtered indoor air
- No more draughts or cold rooms
- Consistent indoor temperatures
- Improved indoor air quality
- Heating bills reduced by over 60%
- Energy costs dropped from €4,000 to €1,200 per year
- BER rating improved from E2 to B2, increasing property value and qualifying for green mortgages
The Results – Energy Savings & Comfort That Last
This retrofit delivered:
- €2,800 annual energy savings (over 60% reduction)
- B2 BER rating, future-proofing the home for decades
- A healthier, more comfortable indoor environment
- Reduced carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels
- Higher resale value and access to green finance options
Key Takeaway for Homeowners
This case study proves how a 1980’s Irish home retrofit can transform an inefficient property into a modern, efficient, and comfortable property. With upgrades like insulation, a heat pump, and solar PV, the homeowners dramatically cut bills and increased long-term value.
If you’re considering a retrofit, this example shows that every step – big or small – delivers measurable results in comfort, savings, and sustainability.
Ready to start your retrofit journey?
At Retrofit Design Ltd, we make retrofitting simple and stress-free:
- Assess your home’s energy needs
- Identify your SEAI grant entitlement
- Advise on finance options, including green loans
- Deliver high-quality retrofit works from start to finish
Click Here to contact us today to arrange your Home Energy Assessment and receive your personalised SEAI retrofit roadmap.
or Call us on 066 9762746
Whether it’s a full deep retrofit through the SEAI One Stop Shop or individual upgrades via the Better Energy Homes Scheme, we’ll handle the process from assessment to completion – so you can enjoy the benefits without the stress.
