As the chill of winter takes hold, many homeowners across the UK find themselves relying heavily on their heating systems, only to still feel a persistent cold in their homes.
Chloe Barrow, an interior expert from Laura James, sheds light on three often-overlooked factors that could be keeping your home from reaching that cosy warmth – even with the heating on full blast.
1. Ignoring Drafts from Floorboards
“Another hidden culprit is poorly insulated floorboards. We always remember to check doors and windows but floorboards are so often forgotten. Even a small draft can counteract the effect of central heating, making your home feel colder than it should.
To test for drafts, run a hand along gaps in your wooden floorboards. If you notice a chill, applying draught-proofing tape or sealant can be an inexpensive fix. For larger gaps in floorboards, consider using a floor filler or draught excluder to prevent cold air from seeping in.”
2. Blocking Radiators with Furniture and Curtains
“A common mistake we see is furniture or curtains positioned too close to the radiators. While it might seem practical to have furniture near a heat source, these items can actually absorb a significant amount of warmth that would otherwise circulate through the room. The same goes for long curtains, which can trap heat behind them, preventing it from spreading across the space. Instead, I would suggest rearranging furniture to leave a few inches between the radiator and nearby items, allowing heat to flow unimpeded.
If you’re using heavy curtains to keep out drafts, make sure they’re not draped directly over radiators – they should end just above, so warmth isn’t trapped behind fabric. Although this isn’t necessarily the in-style way to have draping curtains, if heat is your top priority, this simple adjustment can improve your room’s warmth significantly.”
3. Optimise Your Thermostat for Better Comfort
“Every year when the heating goes on you need to be revisiting your thermostat settings. This is a time many of us in the home and interiors industry know about, but it’s so often forgotten or not considered by the general public. Make sure to set a consistent, moderate temperature rather than constantly adjusting. A smart thermostat can offer more precise control, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature without using excessive energy.”
4. Inadequate Insulation in Walls or Loft
“In older homes, insulation can be inconsistent, leading to heat escaping through poorly insulated walls or loft spaces. Even with the heating on, a home can lose up to 35% of its warmth through poorly insulated areas.If you think this could be your home’s main culprit for a consistent chill, I recommend consulting with a specialist to assess your home’s insulation needs. If budget is a concern, many homeowners in the UK are eligible for grants or subsidies that make adding insulation more affordable.
This is one of the best long-term investments you can make for a warm, energy-efficient home, so if you can afford it or think you’ll be successful in a grant application, I would hugely recommend going for it.”
