The Importance of Proper Ventilation When Retrofitting Social Housing

Retrofit projects in social housing are critical for achieving sustainability goals, reducing energy costs, and enhancing tenant comfort. However, ensuring that ventilation systems are correctly specified is a major challenge when retrofitting older buildings. As homes become more airtight through insulation, upgraded windows, and sealed doors, the need for effective and tailored ventilation becomes increasingly urgent. A generic ventilation system simply won’t suffice, it is essential to select one suited to the unique characteristics of each property and its residents.

In this post, we’ll explore why proper ventilation is vital in retrofitting social housing and how specifying the right system can mitigate risks such as damp, mould, and poor air quality.

Why Ventilation is Crucial in Retrofitting

When homes are retrofitted, they become far more energy-efficient but also significantly more airtight. While this improves insulation and reduces heat loss, it can create a range of issues, primarily due to moisture build-up. Moisture from everyday activities—such as cooking, bathing, and even breathing—has no means of escaping without adequate ventilation. This leads to high humidity levels, condensation, and eventually damp and mould, all of which can seriously impact residents' health.

Ventilation is a key component of any retrofit project. It ensures that stale indoor air is replaced with fresh air, reducing moisture and maintaining indoor air quality. However, it’s not just about having ventilation; the system must be tailored to each property to ensure effective moisture management without compromising energy efficiency.

Tailored Ventilation Systems: A "One-Size-Fits-All" Approach Won’t Work

One of the most common mistakes in retrofitting projects is assuming that a single type of ventilation system will work for all properties. Homes vary significantly in size, layout, construction, and occupancy, and all these factors influence how moisture behaves inside a property. Additionally, tenant lifestyles and habits also play a crucial role.

1. Tenant Lifestyle and Occupancy

Every household is unique. Larger families generate more moisture due to frequent cooking, bathing, and laundry. Conversely, a single-occupant home may require a less robust system. Understanding these differences is vital for specifying an appropriate ventilation solution.

2. Property Size and Layout

The size and design of a home impact airflow and moisture distribution. A small, open-plan flat may need a different approach from a large, multi-room house. Proper assessments ensure that the ventilation system meets the specific requirements of the property.

3. Age and Construction of the Building

Older properties often present additional challenges, such as thermal bridging or inadequate insulation, which can exacerbate condensation risks. Tailored ventilation systems address these issues and prevent future problems with damp and mould.

Types of Ventilation Systems for Retrofitted Homes

There are several ventilation options available, each suited to specific scenarios. Choosing the right one depends on the property’s airtightness, size, and other factors:

• Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): Ideal for airtight homes, MVHR systems provide continuous ventilation while recovering heat from outgoing air to warm incoming air. This improves air quality without sacrificing energy efficiency.

• Positive Input Ventilation (PIV): PIV introduces fresh air from a central point, balancing airflow and reducing moisture. It is particularly effective in homes with limited space for larger mechanical systems.

• Extract Fans and Trickle Vents: Best for smaller or less airtight homes, extract fans remove moisture from kitchens and bathrooms, while trickle vents provide controlled airflow through windows.

Why a Tailored Approach Matters

Adopting a "one-size-fits-all" approach to ventilation can lead to inadequate moisture control and suboptimal airflow, particularly in airtight retrofitted homes. Tailoring the system ensures that moisture is effectively managed and energy efficiency is maintained. Moreover, it’s important to integrate ventilation with other retrofit measures. For example, a highly efficient heat recovery system may work well in a fully insulated home but could be unnecessary in a property with minimal insulation upgrades.

PM+ Delivering Tailored Ventilation Solutions

At PM+, we specialise in tailored ventilation solutions for social housing retrofit projects. Our comprehensive air quality assessments consider factors such as tenant lifestyles, property design, and moisture levels. This ensures that every retrofit project benefits from the most effective ventilation system, resulting in healthier, well-ventilated homes free from damp and mould risks.

Achieve Healthy, Sustainable Retrofits

Retrofitting social housing is an excellent way to enhance energy efficiency and tenant comfort, but overlooking ventilation can result in significant problems. The right ventilation system is essential to manage moisture, maintain air quality, and support long-term sustainability goals.

Visit our Environmental Air Monitoring page today to discover how PM+ can help you specify the most effective ventilation systems for your retrofit projects. Let’s work together to create healthier, more sustainable homes for every resident.