Keeping warm in winter isn’t just about turning up the thermostat, it’s about making your home as efficient as possible so the heat you’re paying for actually stays inside. If you want to cut costs, stay comfortable and reduce your home’s environmental impact, improving your insulation is one of the best places to start. Here’s how to make your home more energy-efficient this winter without spending a fortune.
Check your home’s current insulation levels
Before you invest in improvements, it’s helpful to know where heat is escaping. The biggest culprits are usually the roof, walls and windows. Heat rises, which means the loft is often the biggest source of heat loss. If your loft insulation is thinner than 270mm, topping it up can make a noticeable difference.
Older homes may also have solid walls, which lose heat more quickly than modern cavity walls. An insulating layer or internal insulation panels can help reduce this.
Upgrade your loft insulation
Loft insulation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades available. It’s relatively inexpensive, quick to install and delivers immediate savings on heating bills. Rolls of mineral wool insulation are widely available and suitable for most lofts.
If you use your loft for storage, consider raised platforms so you can insulate beneath the floor without compressing the material.
Consider cavity wall insulation
For homes built after the 1920s, cavity walls are common. Filling the gap between the walls with insulating material helps keep heat inside. This job needs to be done by a professional installer, but it pays for itself over time through reduced heating bills.
Improve window and door efficiency
Double glazing is ideal but can be costly to install. If replacement windows aren’t within your budget, consider:
- thermal or blackout curtains
- window film to reduce heat loss
- draught-proofing strips for frames
- secondary glazing (a removable internal panel)
These options provide excellent results at a fraction of the cost.
Don’t forget your floors
Hard flooring looks great but can make rooms feel cooler. Insulating underfloor gaps or adding thick rugs can help create a warmer, more comfortable living space. Wooden floors may have natural gaps; filling them is a small job that has a big impact.
Upgrade your heating controls
Modern heating controls allow you to heat only the rooms you use, reducing waste. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) make it easy to adjust temperatures room by room, while smart thermostats optimise how long your heating runs.
Seal every draught
Even small draughts matter. Use sealant around skirting boards, foam strips on windows, and brush guards on exterior doors. Letterbox draught excluders and keyhole covers also help trap heat.
Improving your home’s insulation is one of the smartest investments you can make. These simple upgrades help keep your home warmer, cut heating bills and enhance overall comfort. And if you need help, a trusted, reviewed insulation or heating specialist can ensure the job is done safely, professionally and effectively.