Oct 193 min read

How To Winter-Proof Your Home This Winter

As Winter approaches, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient becomes a top priority.

Rising energy costs mean that many homeowners are looking for effective ways to insulate their homes, reduce heat loss, and lower their energy bills. Insulation doesn’t just mean adding loft insulation or draft-proofing your doors; there are also stylish and practical ways to enhance the insulation of your home.

A luxury living room styled with shutters and curtains

Here are five effective strategies to improve your home’s insulation this winter:

Install Shutters

One of the most aesthetically pleasing and efficient ways to insulate your home is by installing shutters.

Not only do they add a touch of timeless elegance to any room, but they also significantly reduce heat loss. In fact, according to research conducted by the University of Salford's Energy House Laboratory (commissioned by the BBSA), shutters can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 30%.

This makes shutters a powerful tool for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, especially during the colder months. When closed, they create an additional layer of insulation by trapping air between the shutter and the window, which acts as a barrier against cold air seeping in and warm air escaping.

For homeowners seeking both style and functionality, shutters are an ideal solution that can enhance energy efficiency without compromising on design.

A window by a fireplace dressed with bespoke shutters and made to measure curtains

Layer Shutters with Curtains

To take your insulation game to the next level, consider layering shutters with curtains. This not only adds visual depth to your window design but also provides an extra layer of protection against heat loss. When you pair shutters with curtains, you’re effectively doubling the insulation potential of your windows.

The key here is selecting the right fabric for your curtains. Heavier fabrics, such as velvet or thick cotton blends, are highly effective in trapping heat inside your home. Velvet curtains, in particular, are luxurious, dense, and known for their thermal qualities. If you're looking for some inspiration, Romo have a gorgeous selection of velvet fabrics to suit any home decor.

If you prefer a lighter look, consider a lined curtain made from high-quality materials to ensure you're still benefiting from insulation while maintaining a chic aesthetic.

By combining the thermal properties of shutters with the warmth-trapping qualities of thick, high-quality curtains, you can significantly reduce drafts and keep your home cozy throughout the winter.

A cosy neutral living room with a sofa and closed cream thermal curtains

Use Draft Excluders on Doors and Windows

Draft excluders are an inexpensive yet effective way to prevent cold air from sneaking into your home through gaps in doors and windows. These handy tools block drafts from entering your rooms, keeping warm air from escaping, and reducing the amount of energy needed to heat your home.

You can opt for decorative draft excluders that match your home’s interior, or go for more practical, heavy-duty options. Additionally, ensure that all windows and doors are properly sealed with weather stripping to further enhance their insulation capabilities.

Install Double or Triple Glazed Windows

If your home still has single-pane windows, one of the most effective ways to improve insulation is to upgrade to double or triple glazing. These windows consist of two or three layers of glass with insulating air or gas in between, which significantly reduces heat transfer.

Double or triple glazing works by slowing down the heat loss process, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Not only do they improve energy efficiency, but they also reduce outside noise, making your home more peaceful.

Although this upgrade can be an investment, the long-term savings on energy bills and the increased comfort level in your home make it worthwhile.

Insulate Your Floors

While many homeowners focus on walls and windows for insulation, floors are often overlooked.

A considerable amount of heat can escape through uninsulated floors, especially in older homes. Adding insulation under wooden floorboards or carpets can drastically reduce heat loss and make your home feel much warmer.

For those with hard flooring, thick rugs and underlays are a simple and stylish way to insulate your floors. The extra layers help to trap heat in the room and reduce cold drafts from below.

Underfloor insulation is a particularly effective solution in rooms located above unheated spaces like garages or basements.