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  • Flooring expert reveals how to create a ‘warmer home’ and minimise heat loss

    Homeowners can reduce heat loss and create a warmer home by focusing on their flooring choices, an expert has advised.

    A spokesperson from Simply Underlay explained: “Many homeowners don’t realise how much heat is lost through their floors. With the right flooring and underlay, you can significantly reduce heat loss, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable throughout the year.”

    1. Choose High-Quality Underlay for Better Insulation

    The key to retaining heat in your home starts with selecting the right underlay. “Underlay is crucial in providing insulation, and it makes a huge difference to how efficiently your home retains heat,” the expert continued. “A good-quality underlay helps prevent heat from escaping through the floor, which can reduce your reliance on heating systems and lower your energy bills.”

    High-quality underlay is particularly effective when paired with carpets. “Carpet with thick underlay provides natural insulation, and the two together can drastically improve your home’s warmth during the colder months,” the expert added.

    2. Opt for Carpets or Insulating Underlay with Hard Flooring

    Hardwood or laminate floors tend to let heat escape more easily compared to carpets, which trap heat and help keep the space warmer. “While hardwood and laminate floors are stylish, they are not the best option for retaining heat. If you prefer hard flooring, make sure to choose a high-quality underlay designed to improve insulation,” the spokesperson recommended.

    For maximum heat retention, carpets remain one of the best options. “Carpets with thicker underlay not only improve the warmth of a room but also add an extra layer of soundproofing,” the expert explained.

    3. Invest in Thermal Resistance for Long-Term Savings

    When selecting underlay, it’s important to focus on its thermal resistance. “Underlay with a higher thermal resistance value is more effective at preventing heat loss,” the expert explained. “I recommend opting for underlays with a thermal resistance value of 2.5 or above, as they can save homeowners an average of £100–£120 per year on heating costs.”

    While these underlays may come at a slightly higher price, the energy savings quickly offset the initial investment. “This investment in insulation can make a big difference, especially in homes that are prone to heat loss.”

    4. Think About Both Style and Functionality

    A common mistake homeowners make is focusing solely on the look of their flooring, neglecting its energy efficiency properties. “While aesthetics are important, you should also consider how well your flooring will perform when it comes to insulation,” the expert said. “Opt for flooring and underlay that not only look good but also improve the warmth and energy efficiency of your home.”

    5. Look for Affordable Solutions

    Homeowners don’t need to break the bank to create a warmer home. “There are many affordable underlay options that offer excellent insulation properties. You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home more energy-efficient,” the expert added. “Even a relatively inexpensive underlay can make a noticeable difference in heat retention.”

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