12 RETROFIT Where old and traditionally constructed buildings are to be retrofitted, it is best practice to start with the ‘easy wins’, the alterations and improvements that make the greatest difference to the energy-performance of the building, with least risk to the fabric. This might typically include: 1. repair and maintenance work to eliminate damp, as damp walls conduct heat out of a building 2. eliminating draughts, particularly around windows and doors, while ensuring that there is sufficient natural ventilation to prevent damp 3. increasing insulation in the roof space carefully, avoiding reducing the temperature on the far side so much that condensation and decay develop 4. improving the thermal performance of the windows, either by secondary glazing or, where appropriate, by double glazing. External wall insulation is generally the last on the list to be considered, because all systems have their disadvantages and in the worst case can lead to dry walls becoming damp, leading to increased heat loss, black mould and decay. A stonemason at the Scottish Lime Centre learning to use clay tiles with lime mortars to fill a cavity (Photo: Roz Artis, Scottish Lime Centre Trust)
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