As the country emerges from the heatwave, many householders are coming to the conclusion that they may need to protect their homes more efficiently from the extremes of weather. Here are some top tips for getting your home more equipped to deal with the changing seasons.
1.Insulate your home for all seasons
It is easy to assume that good insulation will just keep your home warm in the winter, but having sufficient ceiling and roof insulation can also keep your home cool in summer. The best way to do this is to use reflective insulation on the underside of your roof coverings, and bulk insulation in your ceiling.
2.Invest in solar control glass
It is all too common for a home to turn into a greenhouse when it is hot outside. One way to get around this can be to buy solar control glass for your windows. Although expensive, this high-tech product allows the light in, while also reflecting back the heat. This is particularly essential for those with conservatories, skylights, or any large glass structure within the home.
3.Double glazing
When looking at the type of glass to use in your property, double glazing should be a must. It allows less heat to be lost in a cold winter, and stores a high percentage of the natural heat coming from the winter sun. In the summer, it traps some of the sun rays and minimises the heat which burns through windows on hot days.
4.Paint your home a light colour
It sounds simple, but think about the exterior colouring of your home. Houses which are painted a light colour reflect the heat and result in a cooler home.
5.Solar panels will maximise the extra sunlight
With so much extra sunlight, it’s worth putting it to good use. Solar panels allow homeowners to generate their own electricity, which can cut bills in half, as well as adding extra value to your home. What’s more, the Government recently introduced the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme, allowing homeowners to receive a steady income for self-generated electricity.
6.Cross ventilation
Design your home so the windows face each other, allowing for cross ventilation when open. This will create a through-flow of air and keep it cool in the hot summers. It can be most easily achieved by having an open plan kitchen and living area, or by keeping your bedrooms in the corners of the home.
7.Install passive ventilation
Passive ventilation systems improve the air quality in your home while also being an environmentally smart option. The use of natural forces, such as wind and thermal buoyancy, bring in fresh air whilst also pushing the stale air out. As the system is powered by the elements, you’ll save on your building’s energy consumption, which in turn will reduce your energy costs. This form of ventilation is low maintenance and keeps the room at a constant temperature all year round.
Alex Depledge, co-founder & CEO at Resi.co.uk: “This summer’s temperatures have caught many people by surprise with hot, sleepless nights common up and down the country. Our traditionally mild climate, combined with the high cost of installation, have made air conditioning a rarity in domestic settings, leading to huge demand for mobile units in recent weeks as people battle to keep their homes comfortable.
“With extreme temperatures set to become more common, it is essential that homeowners are wise to smart design tips, which will keep their homes warm through the winter and cool in summer.”