Housing in the mountains: which energy renovation work to prioritize?

Housing in the mountains: which energy renovation work to prioritize?
Housing in the mountains: which energy renovation work to prioritize?

In the mountains, temperature variations put a strain on accommodation. Insulation aims to limit thermal exchanges between the exterior and interior of the home. It thus helps maintain heat in winter and coolness in summer and reduces energy consumption.

What work should be undertaken?

  • Attic and roof insulation. 25 to 30% of heat loss comes from the roof;
  • Exterior wall insulation. It strengthens the waterproofing of walls and limits thermal bridges;
  • Insulation of low floors. It is necessary for chalets with basements or crawl spaces exposed to the cold;
  • Changing windows and doors. Install double or even triple glazing to optimize insulation.

Which materials to favor?

Most buildings in assembly have a wooden frame, because this material adapts perfectly to extreme temperature variations. To reinforce its insulation capacity, favor insulation of plant or animal origin as :

  • Rock or glass wool. Inexpensive, it also has high resistance to fire, humidity and frost;
  • Wood fiber, which offers good hygrometric regulation;
  • Sheep wool;
  • Expanded cork.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary depending on the materials, the technique used and the surface to be insulated:

Type of work

Average price (€/m²)

Recommended material

Insulation of lost attics and roof

40 – 80 €/m²

Rock wool, wood fiber

ITE exterior insulation

100 – 200 €/m²

Wood fiber, XPS polystyrene

Insulation of low floors

30 – 60 €/m²

XPS polystyrene, rock wool

Double/triple glazed windows

300 – 800 €/unit

PVC, wood with high-performance glazing

Tech

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