Hawke's Bay council's double glazing initiative makes Wairoa woman a 'happy chappy'

Wairoa woman Sally Hook took advantage of Hawke's Bay Regional Council's Sustainable Home programme. Photo / Supplied

Wairoa woman Sally Hook never used to look forward to winter.

In her drafty 1950s house, the windows would rattle in the wind, and she struggled to keep heat in.

Hook reckons double glazing, enabled by Hawke's Bay Regional Council's Sustainable Home programme, changed things completely.

The programme has provided $814,782 to double-glaze 74 homes in the region to date.

HBRC procurement manager Mark Heaney said getting double-glazing can make all the difference to having a healthy home.

"Having a warm home has such a positive impact on the people who live in them," he said.

"We want everyone to live in a warm, healthy home, which is why we have our Sustainable Homes programme."

Double glazing can significantly reduce heat loss, depending on the size and number of windows, while also helping keep homes cool in summer and adding soundproofing.

Hook had it installed last year after hearing about Sustainable Homes through a friend.

"It's made quite a difference - my house is much better for it," she said.

"I'm a very happy chappy."

To get the money,homeowners and ratepayers need a good history of paying regional council rates.

Approval may be withheld if there is evidence that adding the repayments will cause hardship. Those interested are encouraged to complete an online form or print the application form and post or bring in to HBRC offices.