Catalogue Index

4 sections · 17 entries

Every entry in the catalogue, grouped by section. Each row gives the entry reference, how demanding the work usually is, and the time of year the job normally suits best.

Building Envelope

The shell of the house: the layer that separates warm inside air from cold outside air.

	Air Sealing Gaps And CracksClosing the small unintended openings that let outside air move through the shell.	BE-01	Straightforward Cool, still weather
	Attic And Loft InsulationLaying or topping up insulation at the ceiling line so heat stops leaving through the roof.	BE-02	Moderate Any season
	Wall Insulation ChoicesHow wall construction decides whether insulation goes in the cavity, inside or outside.	BE-03	Trade work Warm, dry weather
	Weatherstripping DoorsFitting compression seals and threshold strips so external doors close against a gasket.	BE-04	Straightforward Before winter
	Secondary Glazing And FilmsAdding a second sealed layer inside existing windows without replacing them.	BE-05	Moderate Cool, still weather

Heating, Cooling & Water

The systems that move heat around the house, and the pipework that carries hot water.

	Thermostat Settings And ZoningSetting controls so heat follows the rooms and hours that are actually in use.	HW-01	Straightforward Any season
	Duct Sealing And BalancingClosing leaks in ductwork and adjusting flow so each room gets its share.	HW-02	Moderate Any season
	Radiator And Baseboard CareVenting, clearing and reflecting so emitters give out the heat they receive.	HW-03	Straightforward Before winter
	Hot Water Pipe InsulationSleeving accessible hot pipe runs so heat arrives at the tap instead of the cupboard.	HW-04	Straightforward Any season
	Heat Pump BasicsHow a heat pump changes the way a house is heated, and what has to be ready first.	HW-05	Trade work Any season

Water & Outside

Rainwater, drainage, fixtures and the ground immediately around the building.

	Rainwater Butts And DownpipesCollecting roof water at the downpipe and keeping the overflow away from the wall.	WO-01	Straightforward Spring
	Low Flow Taps And ShowersFitting aerators and restrictors so fittings use less water without feeling weaker.	WO-02	Straightforward Any season
	Drainage And Ground LevelsGetting surface water to run away from the building rather than sit against it.	WO-03	Moderate Warm, dry weather
	Planting, Mulch And ShadeUsing planting and ground cover to hold moisture and shade the hottest elevations.	WO-04	Straightforward Autumn

Materials & Finishes

Choosing surfaces, boards and coatings that last longer and off-gas less.

	Low VOC Paints And FinishesChoosing coatings that release less into room air, and ventilating while they cure.	MF-01	Straightforward Warm, dry weather
	Reclaimed Timber And SalvageWorking with second-hand timber and fittings, and checking them before they go in.	MF-02	Moderate Any season
	Floor Underlay And AcousticsChoosing what goes under a floor covering to deal with noise, level and movement.	MF-03	Moderate Any season