With rising gas and electricity prices, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce heating costs without sacrificing comfort. The most effective solution is a comprehensive approach: insulation, the right choice of façade materials, optimization of the heating system, and smart daily habits.
- Insulation — the First Step to Savings
1.1 External wall insulation
Up to 40 % of heat is lost through the walls. Proper insulation reduces heating expenses by 30–40 %. Popular materials:
- EPS (foam) — affordable, good thermal retention;
- Mineral wool — eco-friendly, non-combustible, highly efficient;
- XPS (extruded polystyrene) — strong, moisture-resistant, long-lasting.
1.2 Roof and attic insulation
Up to 25 % of heat escapes through an uninsulated roof. Adding mineral wool or polyurethane foam drastically reduces this loss.
1.3 Windows and doors
Modern energy-efficient double or triple-glazed windows reduce heat loss by 20–25 %. Cheaper alternative — sealing existing frames.
- Siding as an Efficient Façade Solution
A ventilated façade with siding not only modernizes the exterior but also allows for effective insulation. This system:
- protects the insulation from moisture and damage;
- eliminates thermal bridges;
- requires no repainting or frequent repairs, unlike plaster façades.
Savings with Different Insulation Options under Siding
Case: a 150 m² house, annual heating costs — 30,000 UAH. Heat loss through walls ≈ 12,000 UAH.
| Insulation under siding | Thickness | Heat loss reduction | Savings/year | Payback |
| EPS (foam) | 100 mm | 65–70 % | ~8,000 UAH | 3–4 yrs |
| Mineral wool | 100 mm | 70–75 % | ~9,000 UAH | 4–5 yrs |
| XPS | 80 mm | 75–80 % | ~9,600 UAH | 4–5 yrs |
10-year perspective:
- EPS saves ~80,000 UAH;
- Mineral wool — ~90,000 UAH;
- XPS — ~96,000 UAH.
- Heating System Optimization
- Automation (thermostats, radiator valves) saves 10–30 %.
- System balancing ensures even distribution of heat.
- Heat storage tanks accumulate energy during cheaper night tariffs.
- Heat pumps are a long-term alternative to gas or electric boilers.
- Simple Everyday Solutions
- Open curtains during the day to use solar heat, close them at night.
- Keep radiators unobstructed.
- Rugs and textiles reduce heat loss through floors.
- Seal cracks and drafts — up to 20 % savings.
- Heat only the rooms you use.
- Practical Calculation
House 150 m², annual heating cost — 30,000 UAH.
- Façade insulation with siding saves 7,500–9,000 UAH/year.
- Roof insulation saves up to 7,500 UAH.
- New windows — 6,000 UAH.
- Heating automation — up to 5,000 UAH.
Total savings with a comprehensive approach: 20,000+ UAH/year.
Conclusion
The “siding + insulation” system is one of the most cost-effective ways to save energy. Combined with modern windows, an optimized heating system, and smart daily habits, it reduces heating costs by 30–40 % from the very first season.