Flooring Hut CEO Paul Brewster says putting one item that costs less than £2 behind radiators could help reflect heat back into rooms
Many of us will be preparing for the winter months ahead(Image: Zheka-Boss via Getty Images)
As winter approaches and the mercury drops, homeowners across the country are searching for cost-effective methods to keep their properties warm without cranking up the central heating. With energy efficiency becoming increasingly important, Paul Brewster, CEO of Flooring Hut, has offered his expert guidance on maintaining a toasty home while keeping those soaring energy costs under control.
His practical recommendations focus on straightforward modifications and clever decisions to help your property remain snug throughout the coldest season.
From blocking draughts to positioning an everyday household item near your radiators, Brewster’s suggestions are straightforward to follow and will help create a comfortable, energy-conscious living space, reports Glasgow Live.
Five professional recommendations to maintain warmth in your home this winter.
Fit reflective insulation behind radiators
Installing reflective foil behind your radiators will redirect heat back into your living space rather than letting it seep through external walls. Tin foil works as an affordable alternative costing under £2.
By adopting these straightforward recommendations, residents can maintain warmer homes while reducing heating costs throughout the winter period.
Introduce a rug or two for additional warmth
Beyond adding character and homeliness to your space, a rug can also help retain heat, making your room feel considerably cosier and more welcoming. Rugs prove particularly effective at delivering extra insulation on hard flooring such as tiles, hardwood or laminate.
For those with wooden floors throughout their property, purchasing a substantial rug could help retain heat and establish a warmer environment.
Wool rugs work exceptionally well, though if buying a new rug isn’t an option, placing blankets or even cardboard beneath existing floor coverings can significantly improve insulation.
Seal gaps and cracks in solid wood flooring
Filling any cracks and gaps can minimise draughts and cold patches, helping your property stay warmer for longer.
Even minor gaps between floorboards or along walls can allow heat to leak out, but addressing these gaps is a straightforward and affordable fix. Apply a wood filler that complements your flooring to keep your home toasty and energy-efficient during the winter period.
Use thermal curtains or draught excluders
Windows and doors are often the primary sources of heat loss. Lightweight curtains or blinds offer minimal defence against the cold, allowing warmth to dissipate and chilly air to penetrate, whereas heavier curtains provide superior room insulation.
An alternative involves placing draught excluders at the bottoms of doors and along window sills. Draught excluders, available for purchase or simple to create at home, excel at blocking cold air from getting in while trapping warm air within.
Throughout daylight hours, draw back curtains to let natural sunlight warm your space, then close them at evening to retain the accumulated heat indoors.
Keep internal doors closed
Although it may be tempting to leave doors open between rooms for a more spacious, airy atmosphere, doing so can lead to significant heat escaping. Keeping internal doors firmly shut helps lock warmth in each room, maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout your home.
This is especially important in rooms with carpets or rugs, where heat is more easily retained.
Closing doors can also help you save on energy bills by allowing you to focus on heating the most frequently used rooms, rather than trying to warm the entire house all at once.
