How to protect your home from overheating
As temperatures rise, keeping homes cool during hot weather is becoming more challenging. Heatwaves can also increase health risks, especially for older adults and people with health conditions.
To help people manage indoor temperatures, Shade the UK has launched its Overheating Adaptation Guide for Homes, developed in partnership with the British Red Cross.
The guide includes 43 practical actions to help reduce overheating and make homes more comfortable during warmer weather. The advice is suitable for both homeowners and renters, and for a range of home types and budgets.
There’s lots that customers can do without making major changes or going to great expense.
Some of the guide's top tips include:
- Use external shading – Plants, trees, awnings and other features outside your home can help block direct sunlight from entering through windows.
- Use blinds and curtains – Closing blinds or curtains can help reduce heat and glare indoors.
- Keep your home cool naturally – Simple measures, such as managing sunlight and airflow, can help keep rooms cooler without mechanical cooling systems.
- Improve ventilation – Opening windows at cooler times of the day can help fresh air circulate and remove excess heat.
- Reduce heat from everyday activities – Appliances, lighting and cooking can all add extra heat to your home, so try to limit their use during the hottest parts of the day where possible.
Small changes can make a big difference during periods of hot weather. Improving shading, ventilation and cooling can help make your home more comfortable and reduce the effects of overheating.
