CURITIBA, PR (FOLHAPRESS) — In addition to getting warm clothes out of the closet, the advent of winter also means finding ways to make the home warmer and cozier.
A study conducted in the United Kingdom revealed that those who live in cold homes are more likely to report mental health problems. And the risk is three times greater for those who already have some type of disorder. The conclusion was that chilled houses are an avoidable source of social harm, with significant health implications.
It is important to remember that both environmental thermal conditions, which involve variables such as temperature and humidity, and individual factors (age, metabolism) must be taken into account when heating a home, says Renata De Vecchi, a researcher in the Building Energy Efficiency Laboratory at UFSC (Federal University of Santa Catarina) who specializes in thermal comfort.
Here are six tips for keeping your home warm in the winter:
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Invest in electronics and fireplaces
Air conditioning, wood-burning fireplaces, and dehumidifiers are always welcome. But for those who want practicality without spending a lot of money, it is possible to invest in heaters and even portable stoves.
“Alcohol stoves are an excellent solution,” says architect Claudia Pereira. “You don’t need a specific space, let alone a chimney. There are options that you can put on top of the tables, they are very tasty for the winter and give a sense of comfort.”
Another popular idea, he says, is underfloor heating. In order not to burden your electric bill, placing them in small environments such as bathrooms is the best cost benefit.
Doors and windows
Frames are elements used in doors and windows to fill gaps. Among the advantages is the fence against hail, rain and outside noise. “It’s a way out for people who are very concerned with outside noise and it’s really in the business of thermal insulation,” says Pereira.
If you want to install something on your own and have more flexibility, barrier films and sealant tapes are some options.
Ask for help decorating with rugs, blankets, and pillows
Moving some furniture and adding some pillows, blankets and rugs is an important step in making the home more warm and comfortable.
In the bedroom, a headboard helps keep your body away from touching the wall, which would be chilly on a winter day. The heaviest trouser is also used: heavier bedspreads (quilts) and blankets on the armchair, bed base and sofas.
An indispensable staple in homes for decades, the architect says many clients choose carpet.
“One or two clients didn’t want to put carpets in their rooms. The performance of the new vacuum cleaners and some professional laundry equipment made people lose their fear, throwing away the view that carpets are dirty and only rhinitis attacks.”
Leave the blinds open during the day and closed at night
On cold days, it is essential to make the most of sunlight. That is, leave the blinds and curtains wide open. At night, it is best to keep them closed to avoid reverse heat exchange.
North facing windows are best for passive heating environments, taking advantage of the much desirable heat from the sun, which is at a lower elevation and is more directly focused throughout the day. But it’s important to remember that even in winter, the sun can get very hot in the north, says researcher De Vecchi.
Ventilate the environment, but only what is necessary
Ventilating the house is important, but not for long: five minutes a day is enough. The best time to do this is during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., she says.
According to the expert, the best option is cross ventilation, with two or more openings (windows or doors) facing each other in order for fresh air to enter the space. Since the biggest problem with high air humidity in winter is the spread of mites, fungus, and mold, the ideal thing for rainy weeks is to use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to control the humidity inside without having to open the windows.
If possible, be flexible
Since we live in a tropical country with hot summers, the architectural project must be ready for all seasons, allowing spaces to be operated and adapted throughout the year.
The more effort goes into keeping a home warm in the winter, the more difficult it is to dissipate heat in the summer.
“What we can do in a more seasonal way is to cover the floors and walls with comfortable and warm fabrics that can be easily changed or stored,” says the thermal comfort specialist.
Tess Burch / Fulbras
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