Household staple is ‘most effective’ method to reduce heat loss

Smart Energy shares tips for reducing energy bills

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The type of flooring in a property can have a huge impact on how much heat is lost during the cooler months. Floorboards with gaps between them can be particularly bad when it comes to keeping your home warm. The gaps between the floorboards can allow draughts into the house which can cancel out the warm air heated by your boiler.

According to matting expert Richard O’Connor at First Mats, the type of flooring in a home can have a “significant impact” on a room’s temperature.

Richard has shared exclusively with Express.co.uk how to reduce heat loss in your home through your flooring.

Carpet

Most homes do have carpets, even if it’s just in one room. But for those who don’t have carpets, now might be the time to invest in them to keep your home warmer.

Richard explained that carpets and rugs are the “most effective way of reducing heat loss in your home” with wool, in particular, being “really effective here”.

He continued: “Although wool carpet is more expensive than synthetic versions, it is an investment as it will save you money on energy bills in the long run.

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“Carpet fibres trap air just above the surface, which then warms up. The thicker the carpet pile, the more air it can trap and the more effective it will be.

“If you prefer a synthetic carpet, an insulated underlay can help to keep heat where it belongs – in your room.”

Underfloor heating

Although this may seem like a costly alternative to a carpet, this could save you money in the long run.

Not only is it comfortable to walk on barefoot but it frees up room on walls as there are no radiators to take up wall space.

It’s also cost-efficient and is a great solution for people looking to embrace renewable energy sources.

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Richard added: “Although underfloor heating can be expensive to install, it is extremely effective at keeping your house warmer during the winter months.

“While you can expect some expense and disruption while this flooring is fitted, it is a solid investment long term.”

Cushioned vinyl

Cushioned floors, also known as vinyl or cushioned vinyl flooring, are an affordable and stylish way to makeover a property without spending a fortune.

These are usually installed in kitchens and bathrooms and can have stylish, contemporary designs on them.

Cushioned vinyl can also keep your home warmer as they tend to be quite thick.

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Richard said: “Normally associated with kitchens and bathrooms, vinyl floors are low maintenance and, if you invest in the cushioned type which is made up of five layers, this can be really helpful in warming your home as well as being environmentally friendly.”

Cork

Cork flooring may not be the most obvious choice but it’s quiet, comfortable and perfect for contemporary-styled homes.

Cork flooring looks particularly good in Scandi-style or Japandi-style rooms with minimalist decor and plain walls.

Richard added: “Although perhaps not the first thing you think of when you consider flooring options, cork is a little bit of an unsung hero when it comes to keeping your home warm.

“Cork’s structure contains minuscule air pockets which are able to capture heat and block cold air, making it a great solution for keeping the heat in your house.

“Cork is also sustainable and extremely durable and lends itself perfectly to rooms that get a lot of foot traffic including living rooms, kitchens and offices.”

Mats and rugs

While many of these solutions are simply not an option for many people right now, a quick way to help keep warm this winter is with good quality rugs and door mats.

“Rugs work the same way as carpets,” says Richard, “and although they don’t cover enough floor to insulate it, they’re more comfortable to stand on than bare wooden or tiles floors, and can instantly make your home feel more cosy.”

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