DIY fans told to be inspired by European style

With the summer weather hotting up, many householders may be wondering what type of home improvements they can carry out to keep their property cool.

According to Sarah Lonsdale, writing in the Daily Telegraph, one way to do this could be to take inspiration from the design of European houses.

She told the newspaper that shutters can be added to windows to help to keep a home cool, while another method may be to pull-down awnings on windows that face south to create shade.

"If you have a conservatory that tends to get very hot, install a small ornamental pool," she advised. "This will provide a body of water that will slowly evaporate during the day, leading to cooling."

DIY expert Jeff Howell added that ventilation is key and told householders to keep loft hatches and roof windows open to invite a breeze.

In an advice column for the newspaper, Mr Howell said homeowners must remember to heat and ventilate unused rooms to prevent condensation from building up.

Posted by David Steel

Date : 08/07/2010
Category: Flooring home improvement news