5 ways to insulate your home in herts  

One of the important elements of elderly care is making sure people stay warm during the winter. Many people struggle to keep their heating bills down. One reason for this is the lack of insulation in many homes, particularly older ones. Here are some suggestions on how to insulate your home.

1.         Cavity Wall/Loft insulation

These aren’t cheap but some energy providers offer free insulation, and British Gas has a Here to Help programme that may also give some financial aid. Some local councils also give contributory grants as part of their home care policies. Cavity wall insulation stops the heat escaping through your walls and loft insulation is easily installed to help keep the heat from rising out of your home. This is particularly important, as heat rises, so reduce it if you can.

2.         Windows

Double glazing drastically reduces heat loss but is also very expensive. A lot of heat is lost through windows but there are less expensive ways to cut this down. Strip draught excluding tape can be put around gaps, or DIY centres sell plastic film or sheeting that can be put over windows to help keep the warmth in.

3.         Curtains

Curtains can be used to reduce heat loss from doors and windows. They are safer to put over doors than draught excluders as you are less likely to trip over them. Heavy fabrics are better. If you are hanging curtains at windows, make sure they at least reach the sill, and tuck them behind the radiators.

4.         Doors

Draught excluding strips can be put around the doors, closing gaps. You can also use draught excluders at the bottom. Get covers for your letter box and keyholes if you can, this will also reduce the amount of draughts coming in.

5.         The Floor

If you have bare floorboards or gaps around your skirting boards, fill the gaps with draughtproofing strips. Rugs can help a room feel warmer too.

These tips should help you with one element of reducing your heating bills and staying warm.