The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is on a "green" mission to help people make smart choices and reduce the environmental impact of their home. Cutting through the confusing information that exists about energy efficiency, the FMB is advising homeowners about the practical and affordable renovation projects to effectively combat global warming.

The good news is that those which make the biggest difference are also the cheapest and can save the most money.

Insulation for the roof, walls and floor is an important way to reduce environmental impact. Increasing loft insulation costs just a few hundred pounds and can pay for itself in less than a year. Cavity wall insulation can reduce heating bills by up to a third, with a payback time of around three years. Insulating the floor costs less than £200 and pays for itself in around four years.

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For a typical three bedroom home, these added together can cut CO2 emissions by more than two tonnes and reduce energy bills by around £250 every year.

Brian Berry, the FMB's Director of External Affairs, commented: "Our message is 'insulate before you generate'. It’s not just new-build 'eco' homes that can be green; for a small investment efficiency improvements can be easily added to any building. Homeowners should think about asking their builder to increase insulation as part of their next renovation project.

"They'll benefit from year-on-year utility bill savings, as well as doing their bit to help the environment."

As well as insulation, the FMB suggests homeowners consider replacing ageing boilers - the latest models reduce gas consumption by more than a third - and fitting double glazing, which halves heat loss through windows. All of these improvements have a faster payback time than micro-generation schemes such as solar panels and wind turbines. For example, solar water heating typically costs £3,000 - £5,000, saves £40 annually and reduces CO2 by 350kg. A badly insulated home will quickly lose any energy created, so the FMB's advice is to insulate first.

All this energy saving advice is provided in the new “green” issue of the FMB’s Essential Guide to Home Improvement. A free copy of the Essential Guide can be downloaded from www.findabuilder.co.uk.

(JM)