How to prepare your conservatory for winter
Does your conservatory turn into a refrigerator as soon as there's a cold snap? Learn how to turn that summer room into a cosy, all-weather haven.
As winter approaches, we can look forward to crisp, cool afternoons under blue skies and enjoy the snow gently falling in our back gardens.
And where better to enjoy the views than from your conservatory? It's the perfect place to snuggle up and watch winter work its magic.
Or maybe not. If your conservatory feels like more of a fridge than a cosy oasis, then you'd probably rather stick to the living room instead.
But it doesn't have to be this way. With a little preparation and a few adjustments, you can turn that cold extension into a warm winter haven.
We've come up with some quick fixes and long-term changes to help you prepare your conservatory for the cold weather. All will make a difference, so you can choose the tips that make the most sense for your needs and budget.
First things first
Before you try any hacks or tips, make sure to give your conservatory a good clean and check for any damage. Look for things like leaks, cracked glass or damaged seals. All these can affect your conservatory's ability to retain heat, so might be the cause of the chill.
Now seal any gaps or cracks. You can do it yourself (with a little research) or call in a professional to do it.
Choose warmer colours
One of the cheapest ways to make your conservatory a more inviting place to be is to work on the décor. Perhaps part of the problem is that it simply looks cold.
By painting your conservatory warmer colours, you can transform the space into a place the whole family will love to spend time in.
And it may sound silly, but lighting will make a difference! Use warm bulbs and lighting fixtures to enhance the ambience. You could use string lights, floor lamps, LEDs or candles. These will also add to the festive cheer of the season.
Make it a snuggly haven
There's something magical about snuggling up in a conservatory, listening to the rain patter softly against the glass.
So, why not try adding some cosy cushions and blankets to snuggle up in and create a warm atmosphere?
Stock up on winter essentials too. Water bottles, warm drinks and other creature comforts should be readily available to ensure you fully enjoy and relax in your space.
Consider thermal mass
"Thermal mass" is the ability of a material to absorb and retain heat.
Things like heavy furniture and stone flooring have a high thermal mass and can contribute to a warmer, more stable temperature. So, maybe it's time to rearrange some furniture for winter!
On the other hand, if you're having trouble with cold floors, you could add some warm, thick rugs. These can help keep your feet warm and prevent draughts from the floor.
Upgrade your curtains or blinds
Believe it or not, blinds and curtains can really contribute to household insulation. So, buying special thermal blinds or shutters can add an extra layer of protection from the cold. This will be especially noticeable on those harsh winter nights.
Invest in heating
If there are no radiators in your conservatory, you could consider getting a portable heater as a quick fix or installing some fixed radiators to warm you up.
Of course, living costs are increasing constantly. So if you do install new radiators, try to plump for an energy-efficient model to keep costs low. And if you haven't got one already, then maybe consider installing a smart heating system that maintains a constant temperature to ensure optimum comfort.
If cold floors are keeping you awake at night, you could also consider underfloor heating. Although it's often considered expensive to run, the reality is that both the installation and running costs can work out cheaper than you might think.
Insulate any cavity walls
If your conservatory has a dwarf wall (a short brick construction around the base), make sure it's insulated. Installing high-quality insulation can significantly impact the thermal efficiency of the space.
Install insulated conservatory roof panels
Insulated roof panels can help to maintain a more constant indoor temperature and reduce heat loss or gain. This means a warmer conservatory and – hopefully – cheaper energy bills to boot.
We recommend the SupaLite conservatory roofing system. This not only effectively traps heat, but it also looks great and is built to last for many years. Plus, if you choose Calder Windows for your conservatory roof installation, you'll enjoy a 10-year warranty as standard.
Double or triple glazing
Another great option to transform your conservatory is to replace your single-glazed windows and doors with double or triple glazing.
This long-term solution improves insulation, minimises heat transfer and contributes to energy efficiency, helping to save you money in the long term.
Learn more about our unique, extra-secure triple-glazing system.
Secondary glazing
If replacing your windows or conservatory panels isn't feasible, then you may want to look into secondary glazing. This involves adding an extra pane of glass to existing windows, providing extra insulation.
Conservatory experts for 30+ years
At Calder Windows, we have more than 30 years of experience in installing windows, doors and conservatory products. That includes energy-efficient solutions such as thermal conservatory roofs, as well as double and triple glazing.
If you're considering some long-term solutions to conservatory heat loss, then get in touch for a free quote. Our team will be more than happy to guide you towards the best options for your home.
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