As temperatures are set to soar during the mini UK heatwave this month, with temperate of up to 30 degrees, keeping your home cool becomes essential. There are simple ways to effectively keep your home comfortable throughout the summer months while minimising energy costs.
From optimising airflow and shading techniques to upgrading insulation and flooring, proactive measures can make a significant difference in maintaining a refreshing indoor oasis even during the hottest days of summer.
Johanna Constantinou, interior trends expert at Tapi Carpets & Floors, has shared five practical tips to beat the heat and create a fresh indoor environment.
1. Optimise airflow
Maximise natural ventilation by strategically opening windows and doors to encourage cross ventilation. Create a draft by opening windows on opposite sides of your home, allowing fresh air to circulate freely. Proper ventilation not only helps cool your home but also promotes air quality and reduces humidity levels.
2. Choose cooling flooring options
Dark-coloured flooring materials tend to absorb more heat from sunlight than lighter-coloured ones. If you have dark flooring, consider placing reflective rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to reduce heat absorption and keep the space cooler. Additionally, using light-coloured area rugs or floor coverings can help maintain a cooler indoor environment by reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it.
Choose lightweight, breathable rugs made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, which allow for better air circulation and heat dissipation. Also, if you have any offcuts of carpet you’ve purchased from Tapi, they offer a carpet whipping service to turn your offcuts into a rug which is a great budget-friendly option, alongside selling rugs instore. By opting for cooling flooring options, you can contribute to a more pleasant indoor atmosphere while reducing the need for fans and air conditioning options.

3. Use sun-shading techniques
Harness the power of shading to block out direct sunlight and prevent your home from heating up. Install exterior shades or plant trees around your home to provide natural shade and reduce solar heat gain. Utilise blinds, curtains, or window films indoors to block harsh sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, while still allowing natural light to filter through.
4. Upgrade insulation
Invest in adequate insulation for your home to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. Proper insulation helps maintain coolness in summer by preventing heat transfer from outside and retaining conditioned air inside. Insulate your attic, walls, and floors to create a thermal barrier, keeping your home comfortable year-round.
5. Seal windows and doors
Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any gaps or cracks around window frames and doorways, improving energy efficiency and keeping your home cooler.