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How to keep your loft conversion cool in summer
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How to keep your loft conversion cool in summer

There are a number of ways you can keep a loft conversion cooler in summer. Some of these – such as installing plenty of windows and good insulation – should be incorporated as part of the initial build, while adding blinds, reflective roof tiles and a fan can be done at any time.

But why is it such a problem in the first place?

Loft room with cozy design.

Why is my loft conversion too hot in the summer?

A loft conversion is undoubtedly a popular and cost-effective way to add extra living space to your property. Suitable for many different types of property, a loft conversion is a cheaper option than a full extension, makes great use of existing unused space and can make your home more appealing to potential buyers when the time comes to sell up and move on.

However, loft rooms will generally be both colder than the rest of your home during winter and warmer during the summer. This is generally because of heat rising from the rest of the house, dark tiles on the roof absorbing heat and large windows allowing the hot sun to shine through.

Unfortunately, many older loft conversions were completed without proper insulation, which means that they can be particularly problematic. 

So what can you do to cope with potentially uncomfortable excess heat and make sure you can enjoy your loft conversion in all weathers? The team at Highline Design & Build is here to provide some ideas on how to cool a loft conversion and hopefully provide some welcome relief.

Blinds, shutters and curtains 

Covering your windows to prevent the heat of the sun from doing its worst is a good start. Loft conversions are great for letting in lots of natural light, but, as with a conservatory, that can sometimes make the space unbearably warm. 

Closing blinds or other window coverings where direct sunlight is entering the room will make a big difference – and if you have plenty of windows built into the space from the outset (see the section on ventilation below), you should still be able to enjoy enough natural light to be able to get on with whatever you’re doing.

Ventilation

Opening windows is always a great way to keep fresh air flowing through a room and that includes a loft conversion. Windows fitted into a pitched roof will often be designed in such a way that rain can’t get in should the weather change suddenly.

When planning your new loft conversion, try to include as many windows as you can, so that you can be sure you’ll always have the option of increasing ventilation levels when the temperature rises. But don’t forget that any side windows facing a neighbouring property will need to be obscure glazed to ensure privacy.

Roof tiles

Much of the heat may be coming in through the windows, but the materials on the roof can also make a significant difference. Lighter colours – such as terracotta – will reflect rather than absorb the sun’s heat. That’s why they’re such a popular choice in Mediterranean countries where hot summers are expected every year!

Insulation

If you think that insulation is just about stopping your valuable warm air from escaping through the roof in winter, you may be surprised to find out that it can be just as effective at keeping hot air out as keeping it in!

That means insulation in the roof, the floor and the walls – plus double, or even triple glazed windows, of course – for all-round effectiveness. And as that insulation will also be working for you in winter, you should be able to keep your heating bills down as well!

Any new loft conversion should have this kind of insulation built in if it’s to meet current Building Regulations, but older ones may have been carried out cheaply. If this is the case, you may need to pull off the plasterboard for the necessary insulation to be put in and improve the energy efficiency of your loft conversion.

 

If you’re worried about your new loft conversion being too hot to enjoy in summer, talk to the team at Highline Design & Build about the range of options available.

We’re committed to making sure that you enjoy your new loft conversion whenever you want or need to, so we can work with you to ensure as many features as possible are included to keep it comfortable whatever the weather. We use the latest materials and methods to ensure an energy efficient space that can be used all year.

Get in touch with us now to find out more about our exceptional luxury loft conversions or to ask for a free home visit. Our team works in and around Egham, Twickenham and Weybridge.

FAQs
How long will my project take?

Each project is different and the size of the build will determine the time it will take to complete; however, an average rear extension/loft conversion will take approximately six weeks from start to finish.

Will I be able to live in my property while the work goes on?

Yes, you will be able to live in the property. If this is the case, we will attempt to leave the breaking through into the house until as late as possible in the project.

Will someone be on site every day?

Yes, we will have someone on site every day. However, the caveat to this is if we are waiting on drying times or materials. That being said, we will endeavour to have a team member/team members present as much as possible to ensure the project is completed in a timely manner.

Will an extension add value to my property?

Absolutely, it is becoming more and more popular to add space to your existing property instead of the hassle and fees involved with moving. Adding additional square meterage can add up to 10-20% onto the market value.

Can you help with plans/designs?

Of course, we can offer suggestions and ideas, and show you previous projects. We can also arrange for you to visit a previous project if required. We have built relationships with trusted architects and can introduce you to our preferred contacts in order to obtain your drawings.

How long does it take to get planning permission?

It will depend upon whether you are applying for permitted planning or full planning permission. Different councils work to different timescales; however, as a guide from submission of plans it will take approximately 8-12 weeks.

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