Heat escapes through roofs, walls, windows, and floors. Large projects like wall insulation make a big difference, but plenty of cheaper jobs help too.
Many of these are suitable for renters as well.
Top up the loft
If your loft has thin or patchy insulation, topping it up is one of the most cost-effective upgrades. Leave gaps over light fittings that need ventilation, and keep the loft hatch insulated and draught-sealed too.
Windows and doors
- Thermal or lined curtains, closed at dusk
- Secondary glazing film for single-glazed windows
- Brush strips and letterbox covers
- Keyhole covers and draught excluders
Floors and pipes
Rugs on bare floorboards reduce heat loss, and gaps between boards can be filled with flexible filler. Lag hot water pipes and fit a jacket to an older hot water cylinder.
Radiators
Radiator reflector panels behind radiators on external walls can reflect some heat back into the room. Do not cover radiators with furniture or long curtains.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.