Nothing is as important as taking steps to turn your home into a safe, comfortable oasis for you and your whole family. However, if you live in urban areas or have purchased an old property, the chances are that you are now facing hefty costs to improve the privacy and insulation of your home.
Fortunately, there are several strategies you can leverage to enhance not just the comfort, but also the privacy, soundproofing, and thermal regulation of your home. In this guide, we’ll look at affordable, easy-to-implement steps worth taking today.
Leverage Trees and Shrubs
A great way to add shade, noise protection, and privacy to your home is to plant trees. Some of the best noise blocking species include fast-growing trees like the Leyland Cypress or plants with thick branches, like hollies and junipers.
Using plants as noise barriers may not protect your home from loud sounds as much as solid walls would, but they can help you create a tranquil oasis – especially if your home is located in an urban environment. Plus, planting trees and shrubs come with added benefits, including natural insulation, temperature regulation, and curb appeal.
Install Retractable Awnings
Retractable window awnings provide a flexible solution for managing sunlight and enhancing privacy – plus, they can be designed to fit your home’s specific needs and aesthetic goals! You’ll be able to install them at any window and choose from a range of options, including motorised and manual awning, different fabric colours and textures, and price tags.
Not only do awnings allow you to enjoy your garden in all privacy, but they also reduce cooling costs in summer and create a sheltered area that can be enjoyed all-year-round.
Install Double-Glazed Windows
Did you know that, in a poorly insulated property, £1 out of every £3 spent on energy is wasted? At a glance, these statistics show that insulation represents one of the best investments for your home. In particular, double-glazed windows can do wonders for both the privacy and insulation of your home.
Not only are they an eco-friendly way to keep your home warm in winter, but they can also reduce the strength and damage of sunray, helping you create a home environment that is comfortable all year round.
Use Strategic Landscaping
Strategic landscaping can create natural barriers against sun rays, noise, and even pollution, while also enhancing privacy and your home’s curb appeal. Although planting climbing vines like ivy or wisteria on trellises is a great starting point, don’t underestimate the expertise that a specialist can bring to the table.
A landscaping expert will be able to design your garden around your specific needs, optimise the space available, and organise different elements such as seating areas, pools, or patios.
Build Covered Patios
A covered patio provides more than just an outdoor retreat! Structures like pergolas, gazebos, or awnings can significantly benefit your home’s energy efficiency while also beautifying your garden, enhancing your property’s curb appeal, and safeguarding your home’s market value. Be sure to work with a specialised contractor and get a quote before starting with your project to be able to better manage the challenges involved with any renovation work.