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Global warming promises us a global rise in temperatures, but above all, more frequent and intense heat waves. How can we, in these circumstances, ensure that our homes remain a refuge of freshness? This is one of the questions posed by the campaign “Tell us about your freshness experiences in your home!». All experiences are enriching so do not hesitate to share yours.
Freshness: prepare your house before summer
If you have, for example, known or been able to anticipate the beginning of summer by carrying out some work at your home, you will undoubtedly have the opportunity to tell how you take advantage of the freshness in your home. And to specify for which solution you opted.
You may have known that up to 30% of excess heat enters through windows. If they stay open, of course. But even when they are closed. To limit this undesirable effect, you can equip your windows with insulating shutters. Especially on windows facing south or west. In this regard, the rolling shutter is renowned for its thermal performance. However, it is necessary to ensure, before installation, that the local urban plan of your municipality authorizes them. In this case, it is better to opt for aluminum, better insulator than PVC. Regarding swing shutters, wood always appears to be the most insulating material. For your bay windows, you can opt for awnings or protective films. These will reduce the heating effect of the sun while allowing light to pass through.
Another development to plan upstream: the vegetation. Arranged inside the house, the plants bring freshness by evapotranspiration. Outside, they create shadow areas on and all around your home. Areas of shade like so many ramparts against the strong heat. If your roof is flat or has a slight slope — less than 35° — why not install a green roof on it. Because the roof is the other place through which heat enters a house. It is thus announced that a green roof makes it possible, in summer, to lower the interior temperature by 4°C.
From paint to insulation
If your house needs a makeover, take the opportunity to repaint your facade – especially the side most exposed to the sun – with light colors. And don’t forget that some materials reflect the sun’s heat more than others. This is the case of stone, plaster or lime. What constitute an additional barrier.
Regarding the roof, some are now also opting for the use of reflective materials. Light in color, they greatly limit the absorption of heat received by the roof. Until the temperature drops from around 70°C to just 30°C.
From spring, you can also embark on an air leak hunt. Burning incense in the house and a eagle eye outside will help you spot them. All you have to do is plug them.
Of course, all of this cannot replace a good insulation. In this regard, it is advisable to start with the roof and continue with the walls to finish with the floors. After all that, you should be able to enjoy a house where the weather is ” Well “. And finally, summer and winter!
Subject produced in partnership with EDF teams
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