EDITOR ' S CHOICE
IMMINENT UK HEATWAVE HIGHLIGHTS GROWING CHALLENGE OF KEEPING HOMES COOL
With a growing number of homes across Britain becoming prone to overheating and temperatures expected to rise sharply in the coming days, homeowners are increasingly considering how to keep indoor spaces cooler and more comfortable during periods of extreme heat.
According to the UK Met Office, heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense due to climate change, with the country experiencing record-breaking temperatures of over 40 ° C for the first time in 2022. At the same time, a recent UEL study showed that overheating in homes is increasing [ 1 ], particularly in newer properties which are designed to retain heat.
Window coverings are playing a growing role in temperature regulation. As such, shutter specialist, ShuttersUp, has seen rising demand from homeowners who value shutters not just for their timeless design, but also as a practical way to manage indoor temperatures naturally.
Ashley Weight, co-founder of ShuttersUp, comments:“ Shutters act as an effective barrier against solar heat gain, with their adjustable louvres allowing light and airflow to be controlled, helping to keep rooms cool, shaded and naturally ventilated. Clients are increasingly viewing shutters as a smart response to increasingly warm summers. They often tell us that their shutters have transformed rooms into ' cool sanctuaries ' during hotter weather, reducing indoor temperatures by several degrees.
“ Shutters also help retain heat in the winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems throughout the year, which helps to lower both energy use and carbon footprint – saving money and helping the environment in the long-term.”
Ashley adds:“ Not only do shutters help with temperature control but also to protect furnishings and artworks from prolonged sun exposure, which can cause them to fade. Controlling the light through the adjustable louvres means that sunlight can be directed away from sofas, soft furnishings, wooden floors and artwork. This still allows natural light to enter the home, unlike curtains which are either open or closed and often trap heat, making rooms feel hot and stuffy.”
TIPS FOR KEEPING HOMES COOL DURING HOT WEATHER
• Keep shutters and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day
• Open windows early in the morning and later in the evening when temperatures drop
• Encourage airflow through the home where possible
• Use lighter fabrics and breathable materials during warmer weather
For further information, please contact ShuttersUp on: 020 8776 1484 or visit the website: www. shuttersup. co. uk
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