Kids just seem to require more room as they grow, don't they? Many families end up extending or renovating the family home at some stage. Here are some tips for renovating right. By factoring in energy efficiency early on, you can create a home and minimizes greenhouse emissions and that saves you money on power and gas bills in the future.

* North facing living areas can reduce your winter energy expenditure by providing natural lighting and passive solar heating.

* Cross ventilation can provide relief from summer heat, and reduce the need for air-con.

* Consider wall and floor insulation in addition to ceiling insulation to save even more on heating an cooling.

* Install energy efficient lighting.

* Upgrade to a solar hot water service, if you need to replace your existing one.