LPG, the Logical Choice for Renovation Projects

Programmes like Channel 4’s ‘Grand Designs’ demonstrate the constant passion for renovation projects and self-build. For the developer, however, there is the need to match practicality with the dream. That romantic barn conversion or nineteenth century cottage has to deliver the comforts of the twenty-first century.

Along with the high spec, the right choice of domestic fuel will influence purchasers. This can sometimes be over-looked and compromise solutions followed. Choosing the fuel has a fundamental influence on the ultimate design of a house and can have a significant impact on the efficiency and sales potential of a renovated property. Gas is usually the preferred fuel, not only for cooking and heating but also for the possibility for an open living flame fire. Just because people live in the country doesn’t mean they want to hump logs and clear out the ashes.

Barn, mill, country church and cottage conversions are usually found further off the beaten track and at a distance from mains gas. As a real alternative, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) can be used in the home just like mains gas. Calor is the UK’s largest supplier of LPG and its team can advise developers on the best solutions.

Case Study: Avada Country Homes, Norfolk

Barn conversion specialists, Avada Country Homes understand the importance of high specification. The Norfolk developer is a leader in country house design and has installed Calor LPG at its flagship Hindringham High Barns development in Binham, North Norfolk.

Avada’s Ian Johnston explains:

“We develop homes that have historic architectural appeal, with designs that include high vaulted ceilings, exposed original timber and masonry features. With such unique properties you can’t cut corners or opt for budget solutions because our purchasers are not prepared to compromise. Prime oak, the latest in bathrooms suites, kitchens and fireplaces and garages with remote controlled doors are just some of the features that our owners expect, so choosing a domestic fuel supply which matched this high specification was essential.

“This is the first time we have specified LPG from Calor and the way they handle things fits perfectly with our company ethos. Furthermore, the underground tank storage option ensures that the visual appeal of the homes is not compromised. Historically, we always used to specify oil when building off the mains gas, but we found that the odour, even with a top of the range system, was a real sales stumbling block. The advantage of LPG is that it is clean and versatile – perfect for our homes, which have Rangemaster gas cookers and underfloor central heating systems.”

LPG provides exactly the same level of comfort and warmth as mains gas for heating, hot water and cooking and as the UK’s largest supplier of LPG, Calor is the choice of more than 85,000 homes throughout the country, even in the more remote regions. It can provide fuel solutions for homes with more complex or unique needs.

Nine properties have been supplied with Calor LPG, each from a 2000litre underground tank and since the initial installation at Binham, the Avada team has since specified a Calor fuel supply for a further development in the area.