How to Keep Your Home Cool this Summer

Peak summer weather is here, and its arrival brings plenty of sun and heat. Many people love to soak up as much of that weather as they can through bike rides, swimming, and lounging lake or poolside, and there certainly are plenty of ways to make the most of outdoor summer temperatures.

However, there are times when all that sun and heat become too much. Spending too much time in extreme temperatures and intense sun can create problems for our bodies, leading to heat stress related illnesses.

Just as the sun and heat can damage our bodies, they can also adversely affect our homes. With climate change related weather events increasing, even homes in areas that are used to extreme heat can be affected.

However, there are things you can do to protect your home and yourself from these extremes. Find out how to keep your home cool and safe this summer.

Install Energy Efficient Windows

Windows play a significant role in the comfort of your home. Windows and doors account for up to 25 per cent of total house heat loss. While repairs are possible and can make a difference, it’s best to replace inefficient windows with more energy efficient options. When you’re getting custom windows in London, be sure to look out for companies with products that hold an ENERGY STAR designation, which means they have met strict technical specifications.

Upgrading to new energy efficient windows will give your home better insulation, and therefore keep it at the temperature you want it, rather than letting all the cool air escape.

Keep Blinds Closed

An easy but effective way to keep your home cool is to keep your blinds closed. This will have an even bigger impact if you have windows that receive direct sunlight at any time of the day. While we all want our homes to be bright and to soak up as much natural light as we can during the summer, keeping blinds closed at least during the peak sunny hours of the day will see results.

Window Treatments

Another way to keep your home comfortable and cool is to install awnings or blackout curtains to prevent the sun from heating up your house. Blocking the sun from getting near your windows with an awning or from entering your home with blackout curtains will help reduce exterior heat that makes its way indoors. Luckily, there are more and more stylish versions of these practical curtains, so you don’t have to sacrifice design for comfort.

Fan Hacks

Of course, utilizing a fan is a great way to keep things cool. But if you really want to up the refreshing cool factor, try filling a bowl with ice and placing it at an angle in front of a fan. The blowing air will whip off the ice and create a feeling of being on the sea.

Try these tips to keep your home as a comfortable reprieve from the heat during those extra hot days.