Conservatories are designed to let in as much natural light as possible. They’re great for opening up the end of a building and creating a multi-functional extension to even modern homes. When summer rolls around, however, all that sunshine can make the space uncomfortably warm. If you’ve ever asked yourself how to keep a conservatory cool or wondered how to block out the sun in your conservatory, you’re definitely not alone.
The good news? With the right approach, you can enjoy a bright, airy conservatory without overheating. Here’s our expert guide to keeping your conservatory cool in summer—so you can get the most out of your extension all year round.
1. Fit Specialist Conservatory Blinds
One of the best ways to keep a conservatory cool is to install made-to-measure blinds that are designed to reduce heat gain. At Specialist Blinds, we use reflective and insulating fabrics that actively reduce glare and solar heat, helping to maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout the day.
Blinds fitted to both the roof and windows are particularly effective, as they help regulate heat at every level. Plus, they also improve insulation in winter; so, you’re not just cooling your space but making it more usable year-round.
But do conservatory blinds actually reduce heat? Absolutely. Thermal performance testing has shown that the right blinds can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering through the roof and windows, making them a smart long-term solution.
2. Keep Doors and Windows Open Strategically
Cross-ventilation is the key to cooling down a conservatory naturally. Open windows and doors on opposite sides of the room to encourage airflow. On hot days, try to open everything up early in the morning and late in the evening to let cooler air in.
3. Use Reflective Window Films
If blinds aren’t an option for you, window films can reflect UV rays and reduce solar gain. Whilst they’re less effective at insulating in winter, they can help you with how to make a conservatory cooler during the warmer months.
4. Choose Light Colours and Breathable Fabrics
Swapping heavy curtains and dark furniture for light, breathable fabrics and neutral tones can help reduce the amount of heat your furnishings retain. This subtle change contributes to a cooler, fresher atmosphere.
5. Introduce Portable Cooling Solutions
Fans and portable air conditioning units can offer a quick, albeit temporary, fix for how to cool a conservatory, especially on particularly hot days. You can position fans near open windows to help pull cooler air in or circulate it around the room more effectively.
6. Add Shade Outside
Adding external shading like awnings, pergolas, or tall plants can help reduce direct sunlight before it hits your glass. It’s an excellent complementary solution to internal blinds and can help with keeping your conservatory cool in summer, and comes with the bonus of adding to your chosen aesthetic.
Keeping Your Conservatory Cool (and Comfortable!)
So, how do you cool down a conservatory and make it a space you can enjoy all summer long?
The answer lies with a combination of solar control, airflow, and smart design choices. Whether you’re considering blinds, films, or structural shading, the desired goal is the same: to create a cooler, more comfortable environment that still feels connected to the outdoors.
If you’d like advice on how to keep your conservatory cool in summer on a permanent, cost-effective manner our experts are here to help. Get in touch for a free consultation and find the custom-made solution that suits your space and style.
