Sustainability 'should be prioritised'

Many Britons may have been inspired by shows such as Grand Designs to build their own dream home, however, when planning such a project they should make sustainability a priority, one sector commentator has advised.

Tim Pullen, an author and eco expert, explained that a sustainable property will last longer and cost less to maintain and run, which could boost its value for when the time comes for its builder to sell.

With this in mind, Britons who are building their own home may wish to ensure it features double glazing and composites doors.

As doors and windows ( http://www.force8.co.uk/index.php ) can be a major contributor to heat loss, having the most efficient and draught-proof fixtures in place could mean that its owners do not have to rely on their central heating as much and watch their bills climb as a result.

"If the house is going to last longer and cost less to run then you have added value to the house, so you have actually increased the value of the house just by building it sustainably," Mr Pullen stated.

The recent AMA Research Self Build Housing Market - UK 2009-13 report revealed that new self-build completions declined by some 11.1 per cent in 2008.

Force 8 the North West's leading window ( http://www.force8.co.uk/index.php )and door manufacturer.

Written by Ted Powell