With record weather forecasts, beautiful summer sun and an extended heatwave, many people are choosing to relax in their gardens or bespoke conservatories and enjoy as much of the weather as possible.
However, with the first-ever extreme heat weather warning being published by the Met Office, some conservatories will get a lot warmer than you may expect, and it is important to make sure that whilst you get to sunbathe that you are not too hot, and pets and children are not put in danger.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to chill out your conservatory, from basic solutions to more technologically advanced upgrades.
Why Do Conservatories Get So Hot?
Conservatories are bright and inviting, in no small part because many have glass roofs that allow a lot of light and heat from the sun in. However, once light enters in this way it traps the heat and stops it from reflecting back out, much in the same way a greenhouse does.
Modern advances in conservatory design have reduced this somehow, but there are measures you can take to help cool down your conservatory.
Cover Your Roof (Or Add Reflective Film)
Much of the heat that enters and subsequently gets trapped in your conservatory will come from the roof, and there are a few solutions to help prevent this.
The most permanent solution is to build an opaque roof on the conservatory, which sacrifices some of the light in favour of less oppressive heat.
However, given that for many people the entire purpose of a conservatory is to be bright and airy, this is not an ideal solution, but there are alternatives.
Roof blinds, similar to those used in loft conversions, are an ideal temporary solution that can be set up and make a big difference to the heat in the conservatory if the conditions get a bit too hot. However, a more permanent solution is also much simpler.
Most new conservatory glass will have an option to add a cooling film, which works similar to anti-glare glass on skyscrapers. It allows some light in but reflects 80 per cent of the UV rays back out, which not only cools the area down but also protects you from sunburn.
Keep The Area Ventilated
Whilst it goes without saying that opening a window can help cool down a home, but it is surprising just how much of a difference fresh air can make to the ambient temperature.
Roof vents can make this even better but simply opening the doors and windows will help the space feel larger, keep you cool and provide some much needed fresh air.
Air conditioning systems, as well as cooling fans, can also help if you have the budget to add them.
Tinker With Your Decor
Interior design can have a huge impact on how much heat stays inside your home, and if a hot conservatory becomes a consistent issue, consider opting for a light colour scheme, using soft textiles and wooden furniture, which also gives your home a light, airy feel.
Adding a houseplant as well can cool down the surrounding air and help your conservatory feel a little fresher.