Britain is bracing itself for another blistering heatwave this week, with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 33C on Monday in London. However, UK properties were not designed for such sweltering conditions, leaving many residents crowded around a solitary fan and a bowl of iced water in increasingly stifling homes. While you may believe you have exhausted all options, there is one particular technique you may have missed.
The Free and Easy Method
Mike Storey, a home expert from UK Flat Roofing & Insulation Specialists, has shared a straightforward and efficient method to rapidly reduce your home's temperature: opening your roof hatch or skylight. This might sound too simple, but loft hatches and skylights are excellent means of cooling your home when opened, and Mike explained why.
He said: "Opening your loft hatch can help you cool down your entire home significantly. The second floor is usually the warmest area because hot air rises, so creating an escape route for this heat can help lower the temperature throughout the house."
If your loft contains a window, opening it enables warm air to escape through the property's highest point, particularly when combined with opening additional windows to encourage air circulation. This technique proves most effective if your loft features insulation fitted between the rafters.
Additionally, opening a loft hatch or skylight will keep your home more secure compared with opening other windows throughout your property, as they are typically beyond the reach of would-be intruders.
Other Ways to Keep Cool
Haven't got a loft hatch? Do not worry. Mike shared some other ways to keep your home cool in warm weather.
Strategically Open Windows
"Open windows on opposite sides of the house to create cross-ventilation. As the air moves indoors, the temperature in the area cools significantly. This is more effective at night when the outside air is cooler."
Close Curtains During the Day
"To keep your room cool, keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day, particularly on the side of the house where the sun hits. For even better results, consider using blackout curtains."
Use a Fan to Improve Airflow
"To circulate fresh, cooler air from outside, put the fan near an open window and place ice cubes in front of the fan to chill the air it blows. Using multiple fans can also help create a cross breeze similar to open windows for better ventilation."
Insulate the Loft
"Although it may seem counterproductive, proper insulation in the loft can prevent overwhelming heat from entering your home due to convection. Also, installing shades or reflective materials on roof windows can help minimise heat absorption."
Staying cool during warmer months is essential, and with temperatures reaching around 30C, additional precautions become necessary.
