HOT TIP
I can’t stand the heat but my hacks will cool you down immediately – you should be closing your windows for starters
Keeping cool next week could be as easy as changing your curtains
AFTER what feels like an endless period of rain - the hot weather is finally here.
However, many of our homes are not geared up for this yet, and temperatures can soon become uncomfortable inside.
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Next week will see many parts of the country experience a mini-heatwave, with temperatures predicted to hit the high 20s with the overnight temperature also remaining high - so what can you do to keep your home cool?
An expert from MyBuilder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, has revealed home hacks to help your home stay at a pleasant temperature.
Close your windows
It’s understandable to want to open your windows and doors to let the air in, but actually it’s much more effective to keep your windows closed in hot weather.
To gauge whether to open or close, take the temperature in your rooms and outside. If it’s cooler inside than out, it’s a smart idea to keep windows closed. Once the outside cools, open your windows to allow the hot air out.
Use shade
Shade is really effective at dropping the temperature a few degrees, and it’s relatively easy to create shady areas - both indoors and outdoors - that will cool your home. Awnings are helpful with this, and can be placed outside any big windows or south facing aspects.
Sail shades are also perfect for this purpose, and look stylish at the same time. Both can be installed for a reasonable cost by a relevant handyman, and are affordable to purchase.
Change your curtains
Light coloured curtains and blinds reflect the sun’s heat back outside, keeping indoor temperatures lower, though dark curtains and blinds compound the problem.
Thermal blinds are also helpful for keeping the heat out as well as in - and booking a professional in to fit them is a relatively small and inexpensive job.
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Solar film
Solar films come in a variety of colours/shade, are placed on your wind and help to reduce the amount of heat/glare or you can choose reflective films.
They can be fitted by a tradesperson if you want to get a professional job, but you can go DIY too. Films cost just a few pounds to buy from a variety of outlets.
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Upgrading insulation
Better insulation is great not just for keeping your cool, but keeping you warm too.
It even helps with energy costs both in terms of less heating, and less fans/aircon unit usage. Upgrading your insulation can seem like a daunting job, but it’s actually hugely beneficial for your property.
Building a pergola
Placed in the right position, pergolas do a brilliant job of providing shade and protection from the sun.
They’re also a great way to be able to enjoy the warm weather, while staying cool. To create the best shade coverage with a pergola, grow a climber over it, or you can even put a fabric roof over the top.