As functional as they are, many homeowners face a common issue – your conservatory is too hot / too cold to enjoy in different seasons. This problem can make the space uncomfortable, or in some cases unusable, for large parts of the year.
If you're dealing with a conservatory that's too hot and too cold, don’t throw up your hands and give in just yet. Here are seven potential solutions to address the issue and help you enjoy your conservatory on the hottest summer days, the chilliest winter mornings and everything in between.
Subpar insulation is one of the main culprits behind the conservatory too hot & too cold problem. Traditional conservatory roofs are often lightweight and lack the insulation needed to keep the space comfortable. This is why upgrading your insulation can make such a big difference.
Unfortunately, many conservatory insulation options are bulky and unsightly. They can negatively impact the appearance of your conservatory from the inside and outside, or even eat away at the space you have available.
Sprayed cork insulation is a practical alternative, drawing on the unique temperature-regulating characteristics of Cork Oak trees. Native to the sun-soaked Mediterranean region, the trees are covered with thick, furrowed bark that’s sustainably harvested and used to make spray cork insulation. The product can be applied to the roof of your conservatory to improve thermal performance. It will minimise heat loss in the winter and prevent excessive heat gain in the summer.
Easy and cost-effective, solar control window film can be a good way to keep the temperature in your conservatory from soaring or dropping with the weather. The film is applied to glass panels and actively reflects heat away during the summer and traps it inside during the winter.
As an added bonus, solar control window film reduces glare and blocks harmful UV rays. When it comes to protecting your furniture from fading and heat deterioration solar control window film can make a big difference. The solution can also help prevent indoor plants from frying during summer heat waves. However, as you can imagine, it won’t be as effective as long-lasting insulation.
If you’re dealing with a conservatory that’s too hot and too cold at different times of the year, upgrading to energy-efficient glazing can help. Double or even triple glazing improves insulation, reduces heat transfer and helps with temperature regulation.
Look for windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass – a clever technology that reflects heat back into the room during the winter and blocks it out during the summer. The only downside of this option is the cost and disruption, as it’s not a million miles away from replacing your entire conservatory.
An easy DIY fix, installing blinds or curtains can be a good way to control the temperature in your conservatory. Simply draw them to block out the sun’s rays during the hottest part of the day or to keep warmth in at night. Take your pick of several options, including:
Designed specifically for temperature control, thermal blinds feature built-in layers to help insulate the room.
These are great for keeping the heat out during the summer and trapping warmth during the winter. The downside? You lose all your natural light and garden views.
These reflect the sun's rays and help to prevent heat build-up.
Proper ventilation is key to keeping your conservatory comfortable. Without airflow, your conservatory can quickly become stuffy and overheated, especially in the hot summer months. Here’s how to improve ventilation and avoid the conservatory too hot or too cold issue:
Roof vents allow hot air to escape and prevent your conservatory from becoming a greenhouse in the summer.
Fans help circulate air and keep your conservatory cooler in the summer. When winter arrives, ceiling fans double as heat distributors.
These small vents allow a constant flow of fresh air through your conservatory, helping with both cooling and moisture control.
It’s not the most energy-efficient or cost-effective option but, in a pinch, a portable air conditioner or heater can provide instant relief for a conservatory that’s too hot / too cold.
Replacing your existing conservatory roof with a state-of-the-art warm conservatory roof system will transform the look and feel of your space. Solutions like WarmRoofTM use a patented breathable system to improve comfort and slash your energy bills.
We get it – the conservatory too hot & too cold problem can be frustrating. In the height of summer, you just want to bask in the sunlight with a good book. While in the depths of winter, there’s nothing better than sitting in your conservatory with a cup of tea, watching the rain patter down.
The good news? With the right solutions, you can transform your conservatory into a comfortable and usable space throughout the year. Whether you choose to upgrade your insulation, install solar control window film or invest in thermal roof panels, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and budget.
What’s our expert opinion? You get what you pay for. Long-lasting improvements like replacing your roof or investing in high-quality insulation will pay off in terms of comfort, usability and energy savings.
At Total Trades, we specialise in helping homeowners like you install high-quality insulation solutions like SprayCork as well as smart warm conservatory roof systems. Our team of experts is here to make your conservatory the perfect retreat no matter the season.
Ready to transform your conservatory? Give us a call on 0333 5771139 or request a free quote.