Identify draught spots
First, identify any draught-prone areas in your home. Draught-proofing your house is one of the cheapest ways to save energy in winter. Plug any unwanted gaps that will let the warm air out. You can do this by:
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Adding self-adhesive foam strips around window frames and door edges
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Installing a letterbox flap and keyhole cover
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Installing a chimney draught excluder if you have a chimney
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Adding filler to the gaps between floorboards and any cracks in the walls
Insulate the loft yourself
If you’re wondering how to make the house warmer in winter, one of the most effective steps is insulating the loft. You can do this yourself by installing insulated loft boards or rolls of insulation. This way, you won’t lose any heat from the top of your home. Make sure you thoroughly research how to insulate your loft beforehand and take the proper safety precautions.
Boost your radiators
Make your radiators work more efficiently by placing a thin slice of cardboard wrapped in tin foil behind them. You can use kitchen foil or radiator reflector foil.
Cut out a piece of cardboard in a rectangular shape (this should ideally be smaller than your radiator), wrap it in the foil and apply some wallpaper paste. Then, slide the foil down the back of the radiator, ensuring the shiny part is facing the room. This will help reflect heat into the room rather than towards the wall.
Insulate the pipes
Another way to keep your home warm and save energy is by insulating the pipes. Pipe lagging can help reduce heat loss and prevent pipes from freezing, and it’s easy to install yourself. Head to a DIY store to buy the lagging and fit it over the pipes.
Create heat-building habits
Building small, heat-positive habits can help your home stay toasty this winter. These might include using a hot water bottle, closing the curtains while you’re out to prevent heat from escaping or keeping the oven open after cooking to warm the kitchen (if it’s safe to do so).
Reposition furniture
Position your furniture in the best way to keep heat in the room. Move it away from external walls and check that it isn’t blocking any radiators. This ensures that warm air can circulate freely in the room, and none of it is lost
Add cosy décor
Upgrade your home’s décor to keep the space cosy throughout winter. If your curtains have seen better days, consider investing in a lined pair. Or, you could add thick black-out curtains under your existing curtains for extra insulation. The thicker the curtains, the better the insulation!
Adding plush rugs can also help retain heat – particularly if your home has laminate or stone flooring. Rugs add an inviting feel to the space and can help warm your feet, too.
Use home comforts
Home comforts like soft jumpers and warm cups of tea can make the chilly months more bearable. Wear clothes made from insulating materials like wool, and keep your feet warm with thick socks and slippers.
Socialise
Winter is the perfect time to stay indoors and host get-togethers with friends. After all, no house warms up quicker than one filled with company. Cook meals like roast dinners to heat up from the inside out.
Now you know how to keep the house warm in winter, it’s time to make it snug and cosy for the coming months. At Barratt Homes, our new build properties boast energy-efficient features, including smart walls and argon-filled double-glazing as standard.
Discover our collection of 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes across the UK, and explore our unique offers to help you kickstart your homebuying journey.
Call or visit our Sales Advisers today for more information.