Issue 47 JUNE - Flipbook - Page 32
Roger Hunt discusses
the perils and delights
of beautiful old buildings
Content developed by award-winning writer Roger Hunt. His books include the bestselling Old House
Handbook, Old House Eco Handbook and New Design for Old Buildings.
Mitchell & Dickinson specialises in delivering bespoke
insulation solutions for period homes and listed buildings.
Products include a unique, advanced secondary glazing
system known as CosyGlazing, high-quality draught
proofing for windows and doors, and specialist sheep’s
wool insulation for underfloor and lofts which will greatly
improve the energy savings and ventilation. Mitchell &
Dickinson’s insulation solutions are installed on site, by
expert craftsmen all of whom are direct employees and
fully trained in house. The company also offer restoration
services which often precede the installation of insulation
measures.
One of the founding principles of Mitchell & Dickinson
is to cut carbon; the carbon savings that result from the
work carried out are 50 times greater than their carbon
footprint which ensures Mitchell & Dickinson is a
carbon-negative, climate-positive company.
The words that often spring to mind when thinking about
old buildings are cold, draughty, damp – and beautiful.
They are certainly not uncommon issues and are among
the many perils of owning or living with these historic
structures. Finding solutions can be challenging, especially
as we aim to improve energy efficiency and comfort, but
the process can also be exciting and rewarding.
Old buildings are a precious and finite resource, so many
occupiers see themselves as guardians rather than owners.
This is particularly true with listed buildings, although
they come with their own set of issues. Strict rules govern
what can and cannot be done, so ownership may seem
particularly daunting although it is immensely satisfying.
