The UK now experiences hotter and longer heatwaves in the summer, which has been a gradual change over the years. Now it’s fair to say, that us Brits aren’t the best at coping with the heat and something we often hear people say is we just haven’t got the infrastructure to cope with extreme weather.
One place where this is especially pertinent is in the home. When it’s really hot, your home can feel like the last place you want to be, as they can get uncomfortably hot and unpleasant. But there are lots of practical ways to make yourself feel more comfortable, from smart solar shading solutions to everyday hacks.
The Power of Solar Shading
One of the most effective ways to reduce temperatures inside your property is to prevent heat from entering. Solar shading systems are designed to do this, by blocking direct rays, they can allow natural light to filter into the property but not cause a big build up of heat.
- Brise soleil are a savvy solar shading feature – they can be fixed or adjustable fins and extend from the building. They are either horizontal or vertical making them ideal for deflecting sunlight. They’ll reduce heat getting into a property and also offer a stylish aesthetic.
- Sliding shutters also offer a great solution, with a stylish flexibility, these shutters can be adjusted throughout the day, putting you in control of the amount of sunlight coming in and out of a property. You can also enjoy the privacy the shutters provide.
- Louvred facades are angled slats that block sunlight but allow air to circulate. They provide a barrier, whilst complementing the style and design of your property.
Other Ways to Keep Cool at Home
Solar shading is a cost effective and sustainable investment, but when else can help to keep you at a comfortable temperature during a heatwave:
- Keep curtains and blinds closed – in the hottest parts of the day, pop your blinds or curtains shut so you can stop as much heat entering your property and reduce indoor temperatures.
- Ventilate at the right times – whilst you’ve got your blinds/curtains shut, make sure your windows are closed during the day too. You can then open them when it’s cooler in the evening and fresh air can circulate and dispel heat that has built up.
- Switch to LED lighting – LED alternative lightbulbs can stay cool and don’t generate as much heat as traditional lightbulbs, making them more energy-efficient and they give off less heat.
- Stay hydrated – one of the biggest tips is drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body cope with the heat.
- Use fans wisely – fans can end up making you feel hotter when they circulate stale air, but putting icy water in front of one can make the air cooler.
- Cool your outdoor space – having a shaded area in your garden with umbrellas, pergolas etc can give you a cooler area to escape to. Having a shaded section by your house can also stop as much heat coming into your property.
Solar shading solutions like brise soleil, sliding shutters and louvred facades can all help make your home a less uncomfortable place in a heatwave, plus a few simple lifestyle changes. With more heatwaves on the horizon, planning ahead is essential and it’s well worth investing in anything that can reduce indoor temperatures and keep you cool this summer.
For more help and advice, get in touch with our team at Urban Skies today.