A conservatory can be a beautiful addition to any home. You can appreciate the light and heat from the summer sun, without having to worry about bugs, or unpredictable British weather!
Conservatories can be used for relaxing, studying, dining and entertaining. The versatility of this space makes it popular with all members of the family. Although used all year round, the conservatory is most frequently used during the summer months.
One of the only complaints that people make about conservatories, is that they can feel stuffy and very hot. In a typical British summertime, the conservatory thermometer may display heat settings of over 26 degrees Celsius. This can be uncomfortable for all the family, especially older people, children and pets.
Make sure your conservatory is a comfortable place for everyone by following these simple tips:
Consider Colour
Think about the colours of your furniture and furnishings inside your conservatory. Make sure you keep to fresh, bright colours and light fabrics to help maintain a cool atmosphere.
Clear out any clutter in the conservatory that may attract dust. Move furniture around and have a thorough spring clean. This can really revitalise the area, and bring a breath of fresh air to your conservatory.
Invest in Air conditioning
Installing air conditioning can be expensive. A professional will also be required to fit it. However, this is a real investment. An air conditioning unit will be able to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the whole conservatory.
A heat pump air conditioning unit is your best choice for an air conditioning unit. It creates cool air in the summertime, and pumps warmer air in the wintertime. Heat pump air conditioning units are four times more effective than electric heaters, and are also cheaper to run.
Sometimes dampness and condensation can be a problem in conservatories. Another benefit of heat pump units is that they extract moisture from the air. This prevents the damp smell that conservatories can often be associated with.
Portable air conditioning units are also an option. However, it is worth bearing in mind that these can be very noisy and may distract from the ambience of your conservatory.
Fit awnings
Awnings work well with air conditioning units to keep your conservatory from overheating. They can prevent the sun from coming in, whilst the air conditioning will maintain a cool environment inside your conservatory.
Awnings come in all colours to match the style of your home. You can choose from traditional stripy styles, or a contemporary plain colour.
When choosing an awning, it is important to remember that the sun will move during the day. Different areas of your patio will be in the shade. It’s best to speak to an advisor, who will visit you to find out the best size awning to fit onto your conservatory.
Hang blinds
One of the most common ways to prevent conservatories from overheating is to use blinds. The prices for blinds can vary, depending on the material and how long the slats need to be. Blinds prevent sun from entering the conservatory, which enables it to keep cooler and not overheat. Compared to curtains, blinds are a much better choice for the conservatory, as they typically take up less room and don’t trap heat. They are also lighter, and look more streamlined than curtains.
Use Window film
Solar window film is a cost effective option. One of the most appealing benefits is that you do not need any specialist skills to fit it. The film is fixed to the inside of the window and prevents heat from the sun entering the room. Window film can also stop UVA radiation from entering your conservatory. Not only is UVA damaging to human skin, but it can also damage furniture and carpet areas that are exposed to sunlight.
Once applied, window film requires no further maintenance. You don’t need to clean it either, making it ideal for those who work full-time or have a busy schedule. It’s really worth doing some investigations into the best way to keep your conservatory cool in the summer months. Depending on your budget, you can choose some simple, but effective methods to help make your conservatory a more comfortable space.
Investing in awnings and fitted air conditioning units may seem expensive at the time. However, you are investing in your property’s worth, and making your home more appealing should you come to sell it in later years.
Mark Caulfield is the Founder of Caulfield Conservatories, which has a team of talents and skilled architects that specialise in creating stunning bespoke conservatories for homes across the UK.
