{"id":204,"date":"2026-03-16T09:58:43","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T09:58:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/?p=204"},"modified":"2026-04-14T20:46:07","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T19:46:07","slug":"stop-heat-coming-through-windows","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/stop-heat-coming-through-windows\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Stop Heat Coming Through Windows in Summer"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Learn Stop Heat Coming Through Windows in the summer.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>During hot weather many homeowners struggle to <strong>stop heat coming through windows<\/strong>, especially in properties with older sash windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your rooms feel like a greenhouse during hot weather, your windows are likely allowing <strong>solar heat gain<\/strong> to enter the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, our specialists at <strong>Golden Ratio Sash Windows &amp; Doors<\/strong> explain why heat comes through windows and the most effective ways to reduce it, particularly for <strong>period homes with sash windows<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases older windows may need complete <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/replacement.html\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/replacement.html\">sash window replacement<\/a><\/strong> to achieve modern energy efficiency standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"562\" src=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/unnamed-44.webp\" alt=\"Stop Heat Coming Through Windows\" class=\"wp-image-207\" style=\"width:800px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/unnamed-44.webp 750w, https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/unnamed-44-300x225.webp 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Does Heat Come Through Windows in Summer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Windows allow heat to enter a home through three main processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solar Radiation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunlight passes through glass and is converted into heat inside the room. This is known as <strong>solar heat gain<\/strong> and is one of the biggest causes of overheating in homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Heat Transfer Through Glass<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Single glazed windows allow heat to pass through much more easily than insulated glazing systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Air Leaks Around Frames<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Gaps around timber windows can allow warm outdoor air to enter the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Victorian and Edwardian homes in London still have <strong>traditional sash windows<\/strong>, which means overheating problems are often caused by a combination of <strong>single glazing and draughts<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Stop Heat Coming Through Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several proven solutions that can help keep your home cooler during warm weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Upgrade to Double Glazed Sash Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most effective ways to <strong>stop heat coming through windows<\/strong> is upgrading to modern double glazed sash windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Double glazing uses two panes of glass with an insulating gap between them. This significantly reduces heat transfer compared with single glazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>improved thermal insulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduced solar heat gain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>improved comfort year-round<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lower energy bills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern double glazed sash windows can still maintain the <strong>traditional appearance of period properties<\/strong>, making them suitable for many heritage homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Install Solar Control or Low-E Glass<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern glazing technology can help control indoor temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Solar control glass<\/strong> contains a microscopic coating that reflects infrared heat while still allowing natural light to enter the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This type of glass can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>reduce overheating in sunny rooms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>block UV rays that damage furniture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>improve comfort during heatwaves<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When combined with double glazing, solar control glass provides one of the <strong>best solutions for reducing heat through windows<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"506\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-or-Low-E-Glass-506x1024.webp\" alt=\"Solar Control or Low-E Glass\" class=\"wp-image-218\" style=\"width:800px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-or-Low-E-Glass-506x1024.webp 506w, https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-or-Low-E-Glass-148x300.webp 148w, https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-or-Low-E-Glass.webp 720w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 506px) 100vw, 506px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Use Natural Ventilation with Sash Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional sash windows actually have a unique advantage when it comes to cooling homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Opening both sashes slightly creates natural airflow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>cool air enters through the lower sash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>warm air escapes through the upper sash<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Because warm air rises, opening the top section allows heat to escape from the room. This natural ventilation method has been used in sash window design for centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Draught Proof Your Sash Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Small gaps around windows can allow warm air to enter the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Professional <strong>draught proofing systems<\/strong> seal these gaps while still allowing the window to operate normally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>preventing warm air entering the home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>improved insulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>smoother sash operation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduced noise and dust<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For many homeowners, draught proofing is one of the <strong>most cost-effective improvements for traditional sash windows<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Apply Solar Control Window Film<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Window films are a simple solution that can help <strong>stop heat coming through windows<\/strong> by reflecting solar radiation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These films work by reflecting infrared radiation and blocking UV rays before they enter the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>High quality films can significantly reduce solar heat gain and are particularly useful for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>south facing windows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>conservatories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>rooms that receive strong sunlight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"506\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-Window-Film-506x1024.webp\" alt=\"Solar Control Window Film\" class=\"wp-image-222\" style=\"width:800px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-Window-Film-506x1024.webp 506w, https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-Window-Film-148x300.webp 148w, https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Solar-Control-Window-Film.webp 720w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 506px) 100vw, 506px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Install Blinds, Curtains or Shutters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Window coverings can help block sunlight before it heats the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Popular options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>thermal curtains<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>blackout blinds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cellular shades<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>plantation shutters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Closing blinds during the hottest part of the day can reduce the amount of solar heat entering your home. The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/energysavingtrust.org.uk\/about-us\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/energysavingtrust.org.uk\/about-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Energy Saving Trust<\/a><\/strong>, recommends blocking direct sunlight and prioritising windows that receive the most sun exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Install Secondary Glazing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to keep your original sash windows, <strong>secondary glazing<\/strong> is another effective solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This involves installing a second pane of glass on the inside of the existing window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>improved insulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduced heat gain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>improved noise reduction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>preservation of original windows<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Secondary glazing is often used in <strong>listed buildings and conservation areas<\/strong> where replacing windows may not be permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Shade the Outside of Your Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Stopping sunlight before it hits the glass is one of the most effective ways to reduce overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>External shading options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>awnings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>external shutters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>outdoor blinds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>shade screens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>External shading prevents the glass from heating up in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Solutions for Sash Windows in Period Homes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many homes across London still have <strong>Victorian, Georgian or Edwardian sash windows<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When improving these windows it is important to balance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>energy efficiency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>heritage appearance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ventilation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>planning restrictions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In many cases, the best results come from combining several improvements such as <strong>draught proofing, upgraded glazing and solar control glass<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While managing seasonal temperatures is vital, the long-term solution often lies in professional <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/sash-window-repair-vs-replacement\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"726\">sash window repair vs replacement<\/a><\/strong> to permanently seal gaps and improve insulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comparison of Window Cooling Solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Solution<\/th><th>Cost<\/th><th>Effectiveness<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Window film<\/td><td>Low<\/td><td>Moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Thermal curtains<\/td><td>Low<\/td><td>Moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Draught proofing<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><td>High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Secondary glazing<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><td>Very High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Double glazing<\/td><td>Higher<\/td><td>Best long-term solution<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expert Advice from Golden Ratio Sash Windows &amp; Doors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At <strong>Golden Ratio Sash Windows &amp; Doors<\/strong>, we regularly restore and upgrade traditional timber sash windows across London.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many overheating problems we see are caused by <strong>single glazing combined with poor draught proofing<\/strong>. Upgrading or restoring sash windows can dramatically improve comfort while preserving the original character of the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do windows make rooms hotter?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunlight passes through glass and becomes trapped as heat inside the room, creating solar heat gain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are double glazed windows better for summer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Double glazing reduces heat transfer and helps maintain more stable indoor temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do blinds stop heat coming through windows?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Closing blinds or curtains during strong sunlight can significantly reduce solar heat entering the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are sash windows good for ventilation?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Opening the top and bottom sash allows warm air to escape while cooler air enters the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Need Help Improving Your Sash Windows?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re trying to stop heat coming through windows, upgrading or restoring your sash windows can dramatically improve comfort during summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Golden Ratio Sash Windows &amp; Doors<\/strong> specialises in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>sash window repairs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>draught proofing sash windows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>double glazed sash windows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>secondary glazing solutions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Contact our team to discuss the best way to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn Stop Heat Coming Through Windows in the summer. During hot weather many homeowners struggle to stop heat coming through windows, especially in properties with older sash windows. If your rooms feel like a greenhouse during hot weather, your windows are likely allowing solar heat gain to enter the property. In this guide, our specialists [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":174,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-204","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-double-glazing"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/204","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=204"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/204\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1090,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/204\/revisions\/1090"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/174"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=204"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=204"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldenratiowindows.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=204"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}