"God, it's hot. Must be the heat!"
To quote Emma's father: "God, it's hot. Must be the heat!".
The last few days have reminded us how ill-prepared our country is for these temperature extremes, and frequently how our homes are just not designed to keep us comfortable. Historically, British buildings have been designed to keep the heat in. That may need a rethink.
Very few of our clients have air-conditioning installed, but are using other methods to manage the temperature in their homes. Here are some relatively low-tech tips for longer-term consideration:
*Insulation* - normally we insulate to keep heat in - but it can also keep heat out. Cavity wall insulation, insulating render, loft insulation and double glazing all help to maintain the atmosphere in your home.
*Ventilation* - creating a through-draft at the cooler points in the day before closing up the house, designing spaces through which air can flow, installing ceiling fans in vaulted ceilings, and loosening loft hatches to allow heat in the upper floors to escape upwards.
*Shade* - several of our clients have recently invested in retractable awnings and we've experienced the benefits of these ourselves. Glass treatments are available which can add a tinted film which limits solar gain. Sheer curtains or plantation shutters allow light and air in while diffusing the direct impact of the sun. And blinds that line conservatory roofs can make a big difference. Don't forget, mature trees provide the ultimate shade, so perhaps consider planting a few to protect your home from the blazing sun.
*Natural materials* - tiled and stone floors are popular in warmer countries, and it's clear why. If you can install underfloor heating to reverse that effect in the cooler months, even better! Buildings made from stone or brick maintain their temperature more efficiently than wooden or artificial materials.
And if all else fails, sit in a paddling pool in your garden with an iced lolly. Stay safe. Soon enough we'll be complaining about the rain/cloud/unseasonable cold.
The last few days have reminded us how ill-prepared our country is for these temperature extremes, and frequently how our homes are just not designed to keep us comfortable. Historically, British buildings have been designed to keep the heat in. That may need a rethink.
Very few of our clients have air-conditioning installed, but are using other methods to manage the temperature in their homes. Here are some relatively low-tech tips for longer-term consideration:
*Insulation* - normally we insulate to keep heat in - but it can also keep heat out. Cavity wall insulation, insulating render, loft insulation and double glazing all help to maintain the atmosphere in your home.
*Ventilation* - creating a through-draft at the cooler points in the day before closing up the house, designing spaces through which air can flow, installing ceiling fans in vaulted ceilings, and loosening loft hatches to allow heat in the upper floors to escape upwards.
*Shade* - several of our clients have recently invested in retractable awnings and we've experienced the benefits of these ourselves. Glass treatments are available which can add a tinted film which limits solar gain. Sheer curtains or plantation shutters allow light and air in while diffusing the direct impact of the sun. And blinds that line conservatory roofs can make a big difference. Don't forget, mature trees provide the ultimate shade, so perhaps consider planting a few to protect your home from the blazing sun.
*Natural materials* - tiled and stone floors are popular in warmer countries, and it's clear why. If you can install underfloor heating to reverse that effect in the cooler months, even better! Buildings made from stone or brick maintain their temperature more efficiently than wooden or artificial materials.
And if all else fails, sit in a paddling pool in your garden with an iced lolly. Stay safe. Soon enough we'll be complaining about the rain/cloud/unseasonable cold.
"God, it's hot. Must be the heat!"
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