< img src="https://atlive-wp.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/LJMU-Test-Houses-001.jpg"alt =""> A research-led retrofit presentation job delivered by wienerberger in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is providing practical insights for social housing suppliers aiming to enhance energy effectiveness, convenience, and affordability for residents.
The Renatus retrofit test houses on the LJMU campus consist of 3 properties representing typical UK homes from the 1920s, 1970s and 2010s. Each home has undergone a full whole-house retrofit using wienerberger’s Renatus service, which integrates structure material upgrades, airtightness enhancements, ventilation improvements, sustainable roof and low-carbon heating in a collaborated, evidence-based approach. This allows scientists to monitor energy usage, indoor convenience, and operational expenses across various housing types.
Independent Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) evaluations demonstrated considerable enhancements: the 1920s residential or commercial property increased from EPC D to EPC A, while the 1970s and 2010s homes enhanced from EPC C to EPC B. These outcomes highlight how targeted retrofit measures can make social housing more energy-efficient, inexpensive to run, and comfortable for citizens.
The retrofit works were sequenced to reproduce real-life conditions, showing that upgrades can be delivered while residents remain in their homes, reducing disturbance. Advanced tracking, including robotic simulations of renter behaviour, permits accurate long-lasting information collection on energy consumption, indoor air quality, and moisture levels.
John Harris, Head of Social Real estate at wienerberger, stated: “Social housing service providers deal with the double obstacle of enhancing energy effectiveness while keeping homes healthy, budget-friendly, and practical for occupants. The Renatus test homes show a scalable, evidence-based technique that delivers lower energy bills, better comfort, and much healthier living conditions.”
Teacher Mike Riley, Director of the School of Civil Engineering and Constructed Environment, included: “This task combines scholastic research study and industry expertise to produce a living lab for social housing retrofit. The information we gather will help companies make notified decisions that improve both structure performance and citizens’ quality of life.”
The Renatus test homes offer a replicable design for social real estate providers seeking to satisfy EPC targets, minimize carbon emissions, and deliver concrete advantages to tenants through evidence-driven retrofit solutions.
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