During the summer, people want to make the most of their conservatories, the sunniest part of the home. However, if you have an older conservatory, you may find that it is several degrees warmer than outside during the hottest part of the day. If it was originally constructed using glass panels or polycarbonate, these materials are now outdated and inefficient. Replacing your conservatory roof is not a cheap process, you will need to do some serious research. Make sure you contact a company who specialise in this type of refurbishment, and get a few quotes before you decide on a contractor.
In the meantime, here are a few suggestions about how you can make your conservatory a ‘cool’ environment and enjoy it during the summer months.
Open windows and doors during sunny days to increase the circulation of fresh air. This may seem obvious, but a lot of people don’t like ‘drafts’ and will insist on keeping doors and windows locked tight. As long as you are in the house and keeping an eye on any possible intruders, allowing air to circulate will help cool the room during the hottest part of the day.
Vents could be installed to help control the amount of air coming into the room without leaving your home vulnerable to intruders.
Blinds can keep out direct sunlight, this brings the interior temperature to a more manageable range. Internal blinds fit between the glass panels of the double glazing, so they never get dirty or pucker. If you can invest in something that can be adjusted throughout the day, then you’ll have some control over the amount of sun you allow into the room. These can also be a stylish addition to your home, giving you an opportunity to update your décor and refresh the look of your conservatory.
Adding some cooling film to your windows can be a cost effective solution, prices start at around £20 per metre. Applying a thin layer of specialist film will reflect up to 80% of the sun’s heat and harmful UV rays too. The application is quite difficult, due to the height of the conservatory, so make sure you hire a professional for the job.
A ceiling fan is a great way to circulate the air without compromising security. However, you may not be able to attach a fan to the roof of your conservatory very easily. Any kind of fan will do the job of moving the still air, whether it’s a desk fan or freestanding.
Making your conservatory look a little jungle themed is not just an interior decor statement, plants will absorb excess moisture and reduce humidity. Using a range of sizes and species will add interest to your space and add a little shade.
Finally, make sure your conservatory furniture is light, avoid leather seats and opt for lighter fabric soft furnishings. You could always add an ice bucket full of refreshing drinks, just to keep yourself cool too.
Image: shutterstock_1381433780
