Improving the energy efficiency of older homes can be challenging. Many pre-1940 traditional buildings were constructed using materials and techniques that require careful treatment during renovation. Standard retrofit solutions designed for modern buildings may not always be suitable for historic or traditionally built homes.
To address this, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) introduced the Traditional Homes Scheme, a programme designed to help homeowners upgrade the energy performance of older properties while protecting their architectural character.
What is the Traditional Homes Scheme?
The Traditional Homes Scheme provides specialised grants and technical guidance for improving the energy efficiency of older or traditionally constructed buildings.
Traditional homes are typically those built before the 1940s, using materials such as:
- Solid stone walls
- Solid brick construction
- Lime mortar and lime plaster
- Timber floors and breathable materials
These buildings often need different retrofit approaches than modern cavity-wall homes. The scheme encourages upgrades that improve energy efficiency while preserving the building’s ability to “breathe,” which helps prevent moisture and structural issues.
Why Traditional Homes Need a Different Approach
Older buildings behave very differently from modern homes. Their materials are designed to absorb and release moisture naturally, which helps regulate internal humidity.
If modern retrofit methods, such as impermeable insulation or incorrect sealing, are applied without care, they can cause problems including:
- Damp and condensation
- Trapped moisture within walls
- Damage to historic materials
- Reduced indoor air quality
For this reason, retrofitting traditional homes requires specialist design and materials that maintain the building’s natural performance.
Which Upgrades the Scheme Supports.
The Traditional Homes Scheme supports a range of improvements that are suitable for older buildings.
These may include:
- Insulation
- Breathable internal wall insulation
- Attic insulation using appropriate materials
- Floor insulation where suitable
- Windows and Doors
- Repairing or upgrading traditional windows
- Installing secondary glazing where appropriate
- Improving draught-proofing
- Heating Systems
- Upgrading heating controls
- Installing more efficient heating systems
- Heat pumps where suitable for the building
- Ventilation Improvements
- Installing controlled ventilation systems
- Ensuring good airflow while improving airtightness
Each project is carefully assessed to ensure that the upgrades protect the building’s historic fabric while improving energy performance.
Who Is the Scheme For?
The Traditional Homes Scheme is designed for homeowners whose properties fall into categories such as:
- Pre-1940 buildings
- Protected structures
- Buildings within Architectural Conservation Areas
- Homes constructed with solid wall or traditional materials
These homes are common across Ireland and include:
- Stone cottages in rural areas
- Georgian and Victorian townhouses
- Early 20th-century terraces
- Farmhouses and historic dwellings
Because these properties form an important part of Ireland’s built heritage, retrofitting them must balance energy efficiency with conservation.
How the Process Works
Homeowners interested in the scheme typically follow a structured process.
- Initial Assessment: A specialist energy advisor evaluates the home’s construction, condition, and energy performance.
- Retrofit Plan: A tailored upgrade plan is developed, identifying improvements that increase efficiency without harming the building.
- Grant Application: Homeowners apply for available grants through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
- Installation: Qualified contractors carry out the recommended upgrades using suitable materials and methods.
- Final Certification: After the upgrades are completed, a BER assessor evaluates the home and issues an updated Building Energy Rating (BER)..
Benefits for Homeowners
Retrofitting a traditional home can deliver several benefits while preserving the building’s character.
- Improved Comfort: Better insulation and heating systems make older homes warmer and more comfortable throughout the year.
- Lower Energy Bills: Energy upgrades can significantly reduce heating demand and energy costs.
- Preservation of Heritage: By using appropriate materials and techniques, homeowners can protect the historic character of their property.
- Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are increasingly attractive to buyers and can command higher market values.
Supporting Ireland’s Climate Goals
Residential buildings play a significant role in Ireland’s overall energy use. Improving the efficiency of older homes is an important part of the country’s climate strategy.
However, many historic buildings require different upgrade methods than newer properties. The Traditional Homes Scheme helps ensure that these homes contribute to national climate targets while protecting Ireland’s architectural heritage.
Take the first step
If you own an older property and are considering energy upgrades, the first step is to seek professional advice from specialists familiar with traditional buildings.
A detailed assessment will identify the most appropriate improvements and determine whether your home qualifies for supports under the Traditional Homes Scheme.
With the right expertise and careful planning, it is possible to make a traditional home warmer, more efficient, and more comfortable and at the same time preserving the unique character that makes these buildings so valuable.
Find out more about the Traditional Home Scheme HERE
Why not check out more articles on Retrofitting in the MyHome Retrofit Hub HERE
