As the climate crisis brings more intense heatwaves to the UK, homeowners and companies are developing innovative ways to keep properties cool. From yoghurt smeared on windows to luxury shade sails, solutions range from affordable to high-end.
Brise-Soleil: A French Solution for UK Homes
Graphic designer Marc Alabaster discovered brise-soleil, French for 'sun-breaker,' after installing glass doors that turned his kitchen into a 40-degree oven. He now runs Brise Soleil UK, catering to homeowners seeking shade for large windows and glass doors.
Growing Demand for Shading
Most UK homes lack external shading, according to the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). Schools, hospitals, and care homes are also at risk during heatwaves. Ruth Shilston of Mott MacDonald calls for sustained investment in infrastructure to cope with future heat. New regulations on overheating in new residential buildings came into force in England in 2022, but most people in older homes must adapt themselves.
Affordable Innovations: Clip-On Awnings and Yoghurt
Aimée Daniels founded Shaded after the 2022 heatwave, designing a mini awning that clips to sash window frames for £89. Sales have surged this week. Chartered engineer Tom Greenhill advocates smearing yoghurt on windows to create a frosted effect that reduces solar gain. 'The culture has got to catch up,' he said.
Luxury Options: Shade Sails and Traditional Blinds
Kemp Sails in Dorset repurposes yacht sail-making techniques for shade sails, using triple-step zigzag stitches for strength. A large sail costs several thousand pounds. Caribbean Blinds saw inquiries rise 600% during May's heatwave, with orders up 56%, said managing director Stuart Dantzic.
Research Confirms Effectiveness of External Shading
Ben Roberts at Loughborough University found that external shading, such as fabric, can reduce internal temperatures by 6C—far more effective than internal shading alone. Trials funded by the British Blind & Shutter Association compared two test houses, showing dark fabrics work well when used externally.
A Shift in Perspective
Mina Hasman of RIBA's Climate Expert Advisory Group noted, 'Shading is no longer being discussed simply as a matter of glare or privacy, but as part of compliance, resilience and public health. That is a significant shift.'
