As temperatures are dropping across the UK, more people are searching for different ways to keep the cold out of their homes. Whether it’s through loft insulation or adding thermal blinds, there are many ways to keep a home warm.

Windows and doors specialists, Genesis Collection have analysed Google search volumes to reveal the most searched for winter property questions which they have also provided expert answers to.

How to keep a house warm in winter
There are many simple things you can do to help keep your home warmer in the winter months. Try using timers for your central heating, turning it on at a reasonable temperature around 30 minutes before you get up in the morning. This way you don’t have to turn it on high heat or keep it on for longer to get it up to temperature.

Also consider opening your curtains to let sunlight in during the day to make use of the heat from the sun. Shutting your curtains in the evening will also help provide an extra layer of insulation to keep warmth in your home.

Ensuring your doors and windows are properly draught proofed, as if these are properly sealed it will help reduce heat loss and keep warmth in your home.

What is the cost to insulate a house?
Rated as the second most important feature of a home by potential homebuyers[i], insulation is vital to keeping a house warm. There are many types of insulation, from loft to wall and even floor, each costing different amounts. Materials also need to be considered, as these can also vary in cost.

The easiest way to calculate the cost of insulation is to consider the house size, it’s thought on average wall insulation could cost around £200 per wall, however, to insulate an entire detached house could cost up to £20,000[ii] so it’s important to speak to a qualified builder or architect to get it right for your home.
What is good insulation?
There are many types of home insulation, which can help keep your house warm and energy bills lower, from loft insulation to solid wall, underfloor and external wall. In general materials such as spray foam, fibreglass, mineral wool, and cellulose are the most popular home insulators, and each provides different benefits.

Wall insulators tend to be the favourable option for reducing heat loss in cooler months, and loft insulation is vital as heat rises, as much of the homes heat is lost through the roof. Again, its important to liaise with a qualified builder or architect to get the right insulation for your space.
Do blinds keep the heat in?
Blinds can provide some insulation against the cold as they trap a layer of air between the fabric and window. However, they shouldn’t be relied upon, and will need to be used alongside other methods.

If you are looking for blinds to add a level of insulation, then thicker thermal blinds are available.

How to heat a conservatory in winter
In winter, conservatories can succumb to the cooler air, due to sheer the amount of glass. However, by ensuring all the external windows and doors are well maintained and have proper draught-proofing will help keep heat in.

Installing curtains or blinds will also provide an extra layer of insulation and installing radiators will provide a cosier space in the winter months.
How to keep a garage warm
If you have converted your garage into an extra room, you’ll want to keep this warm and usable in the cooler months. Firstly, you should ensure insulation is fitted correctly in the roof and walls and when converting the space, it’s recommended to choose a thicker flooring to maintain warmth.

High quality windows and doors are a must for a converted garage to keep the space draught free.
How to keep a summerhouse warm in winter
If you plan to enjoy your summerhouse in the winter months, you may need to think about warmth. Use floor and wall coverings such as rugs to add an extra layer of insulation and consider bringing in a portable heater. Ensuring your windows and door are draught free will also help to keep the heat in.

It’s important to keep our homes warm over winter to provide a comfortable and liveable space. There are many different considerations for heating different rooms in the house, especially converted outdoor buildings, so it’s important to do your research as to what will work best for your home.

With the correct insulation, heating and windows and doors in place, you can drastically reduce your heating bills whilst keeping your home cosy in the cold season.