Summer 2024 may just be the mildest in living memory, but there’s still enough time for things to turn around and the sun to appear. And more often than not with the UK, it will do so when you least expect it and when you are not prepared for it.
That’s why when the warmer weather does arrive, many of us start complaining about it being too hot and unbearable while having kept our windows shut and wearing thick denim jeans.
The trick to coping – and fully enjoying – the sunshine when it does appear is to have ways to keep as cool as possible. Given that conservatories can become hotter than other parts of the house, thanks to the many glass windows, it is sensible to know how to cool it down so the space can still be fully utilised during the warmer summer days.
Here are some ways you can do just that.
Cooling film
The original purpose of a traditional conservatory was for the wealthy to have somewhere to grow citrus fruits as the British weather was not hot enough for them to enjoy oranges, limes and lemons.
Therefore, conservatories are known to heat up more than the rest of the house, which is probably the reason why they have remained so popular over the last 400 years.
However, on exceptionally hot days, it can feel a little stifling if you prefer to stay indoors away from harsh UV rays.
In this case, it is worth fitting cooling film to the conservatory windows, which is intended to reflect much of the sun’s heat.
These heat reflective films can reduce a lot of the heat coming through the windows, as well as the sun’s UV rays. This means homeowners do not have to pull down their blinds if they want to block out some of the sunshine, enabling them to still enjoy the bright daylight without stuffy conditions.
Another benefit of having cooling film is it protects conservatory furniture from the bright sunlight too, so they are less likely to fade as quickly.
Window blinds
Blinds, however, are still a popular choice as they block sunlight from the room, stopping it from heating up the space.
At the same time, they are useful to have for the winter months, as they prevent the cold air from coming in and keep the conservatory warmer.
Lots of plants
As many people use their conservatories as extensions to their garden, it is common to see them filled with lots of large plants and trees. However, this also has a practical benefit of keeping the temperature lower too.
Some greenery can reduce the humidity of a room, which makes the heat more tolerable to be in. These include Lapageria, Sarracenia, Plumbago and Hymenocallis, otherwise known as spider lilies.
These are not only great at controlling the temperature in the conservatory, but they are also beautiful with their spindly white petals and dark green foliage, and smell lovely. They also remain evergreen when not flowering, giving your conservatory that natural look even in the winter.
It isn’t just important what plants you put inside your orangery, but which ones you plant outside too. Something that can offer shade to your conservatory, for instance, will keep it cooler by reducing the heat coming in.
Open windows strategically
It can be tempting to open windows and doors all the time when it is hot outside, but this just means you let in the hot air.
Instead, you should open them in the early morning and nighttime when the temperature is lower to let cooler air into the home. Then shut them when it begins to get warmer so the heat remains outside.
If you have an air conditioning unit too, it is important to keep windows and doors shut to get the most out of it, otherwise all your refreshing air will escape!
Light furnishings
You might not appreciate how much your furniture and furnishings can affect the temperature of the conservatory but they can.
For instance, it is sensible to avoid leather couches, heavy wooden furniture, and dark colours, as these absorb the heat and make the room warmer.
Opt for lighter colours, such as pastels and neutrals, as these do not retain the heat, and soft fabrics, which remain cool to touch.
Items that are ‘breathable’ like bamboo or rattan are a good choice, as air can pass through the gaps. It is also wise to have as little furniture in the room as possible, as this increases airflow and makes it feel cooler.
If you’re worried about the conservatory being too cold in the winter, you can add furnishings, such as dark-coloured rugs, cushions and throws, during the cooler months to keep the heat in.