Stay Cool at Home: A Practical Guide to Prevent Overheating in UK Homes
As UK summers continue to heat up, our homes are struggling to keep their cool. With temperatures soaring to record-breaking highs like the 40.3°C reached in July 2022, it’s more important than ever to make our homes more heat-resilient—especially for those most vulnerable.
That’s why Shade the UK, in partnership with the British Red Cross, created the Overheating Adaptation Guide for Homes—a practical resource packed with tips and measures that anyone can take, whether you rent or own your home.
️ Why Overheating Matters
Over half of UK homes already suffer from overheating, and projections suggest that number could hit 90% as climate change progresses. Overheating isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be deadly. In 2022, there were an estimated 3,000 heat-related deaths during just one heatwave, and that figure is expected to triple in the coming decades.
Vulnerable groups such as older adults, those with chronic health conditions, pregnant people, and young children are most at risk.
Adaptation Measures You Can Start Today
The guide categorises solutions into temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent actions, helping you choose what’s right for your home, budget, and situation.
External Shade – Block the Heat Before It Enters
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Plant fast-growing shrubs or climbing plants near windows for natural shade (£-££)
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️ Install awnings or shutters to control sunlight and airflow (££)
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Use a gazebo or shade sail for flexible outdoor shading (£-££)
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Try white paint or solar reflective materials on walls and roofs to bounce the sun away (£££)
Internal Shade – Control the Light Indoors
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Thermal or blackout curtains can significantly cut heat gain (£-££)
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Reflective window film applied inside or outside can reduce sunlight penetration (££)
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Indoor leafy plants near windows cool the air naturally (£)
❄️ Passive Cooling – Keep the Heat Out Naturally
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️ Green roofs or wall trellises with climbing plants add insulation and shade (££-£££)
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Choose light-coloured furnishings and wall paint to reflect heat (£-££)
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Add water features or misting systems for evaporative cooling outdoors (££)
️ Ventilation – Let the Air Flow
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Use fans with ice bowls for instant cooling (£)
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Install secure openable windows for night cooling (£££)
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Ceiling fans offer low-energy cooling and airflow (££)
Reduce Internal Heat
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Switch to energy-efficient appliances to limit heat from electronics (£-££)
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Insulate hot water pipes and avoid unnecessary appliance use in the day (£££)
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️ Use cooling mattresses or mats for better sleep during heatwaves (£-££)
Real Stories & Community Action
Shade the UK’s 40°C Stories campaign gives a voice to those impacted by heat, reminding us that climate resilience is a community effort. It’s not just about staying cool—it’s about staying safe, connected, and prepared.
Useful Links and Resources
Final Thought
Overheating isn’t just a summer nuisance—it’s a growing public health issue. With smart, simple changes, we can all help protect our homes and our loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat.
Whether you rent a flat or own a house, there’s something you can do today to stay safe tomorrow.