A period home is beautiful, full of charm and history, but keeping it warm in winter can be a challenge. Unlike modern houses, period homes often lack proper insulation, have single-glazed windows, and feature older heating systems. Without the right preparation, winter can feel cold and uncomfortable.
Whether you own a Victorian terrace, an Edwardian cottage, or a Federation-style home, the right steps can make a huge difference. From sealing draughts to upgrading heating systems, a few key improvements will keep your home warm, efficient, and comfortable. If you’re considering home renovations in Melbourne, now is the perfect time to prepare for the colder months.
1. Seal Draughts and Gaps
Period homes often have small gaps around doors, windows, and floorboards that let in cold air. These draughts can make a room feel much colder and increase heating costs.
Where to Check for Draughts
Draughts commonly enter through:
- Gaps around windows and doors
- Floorboards and skirting boards
- Chimneys and fireplaces
- Ceiling vents and roof spaces
A simple way to test for draughts is to hold a lit candle near doors and windows. If the flame flickers, there’s a gap letting in cold air.
How to Seal Them
Fixing draughts can be easy and cost-effective:
- Install weather stripping around doors and windows
- Use draught excluders for doors
- Seal gaps in floorboards with a clear sealant
- Close off unused chimneys with a chimney balloon or cap
Reducing draughts helps maintain a steady indoor temperature, keeping your home warmer without overworking the heating system. For more seasonal maintenance tips, check out these autumn home preparation tips for period homes in Melbourne.
2. Upgrade Your Insulation
Good insulation is key to keeping heat inside your home. Many period homes lack proper insulation, leading to heat loss through walls, floors, and ceilings.
Where to Add Insulation
- Roof and Ceiling: Up to 35% of heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. Adding or upgrading ceiling insulation can make a big difference.
- Walls: Older homes often have solid brick walls with no cavity insulation. Internal wall insulation or external cladding can help.
- Floors: If your home has timber floors, insulating underneath will prevent cold air from rising.
Best Insulation Materials
- Batts and rolls: Easy to install, great for ceilings and walls
- Spray foam: Ideal for sealing gaps and cracks
- Underfloor insulation boards: Perfect for raised timber floors
Upgrading insulation improves comfort, reduces heating costs, and increases energy efficiency. It’s one of the best long-term investments for a period home.
3. Improve Window Efficiency
Single-glazed windows are common in period homes, but they offer little protection against the cold. While replacing them with double glazing is ideal, there are other ways to improve window efficiency.
Options for Warmer Windows
- Secondary glazing: Adds an extra pane without replacing the original windows
- Heavy curtains and thermal blinds: Reduce heat loss and block cold drafts
- Window film: A cost-effective option to improve insulation
Case Study: A Victorian Home in Melbourne
A homeowner in Melbourne wanted to keep their heritage windows but improve warmth. They installed secondary glazing and used heavy curtains with pelmets. The result? A 30% reduction in heat loss and lower energy bills.
For those planning a more refined update, explore these luxury home renovation ideas for heritage properties while ensuring your windows are warm and efficient.
4. Upgrade Your Heating System
Old fireplaces and gas heaters may not provide enough warmth in winter. Upgrading to a more efficient heating system can make a big difference in comfort and energy use.
Best Heating Options for Period Homes
- Hydronic heating: Radiator panels provide even, efficient heat
- Reverse-cycle air conditioning: Good for both heating and cooling
- Wood-burning stoves: Maintain period charm while adding warmth
Why Hydronic Heating Works Well
Hydronic heating is one of the best options for period homes. It uses water to heat radiator panels, providing a gentle and consistent warmth. It’s also energy-efficient and works well with solar panels, reducing running costs.
For those considering a larger home update, check out the best home renovations in Melbourne for autumn to enhance warmth and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How can I heat my period home without increasing my energy bills?
Keeping a period home warm while controlling energy costs requires a strategic approach. The first step is sealing draughts around doors, windows, and floors. Even small gaps can allow cold air to enter and force your heating system to work harder. Installing weather stripping, using draught excluders, and sealing floorboard gaps can make a significant difference.
Upgrading insulation is another key factor. Many period homes lack proper insulation in the roof, walls, and floors. Adding ceiling insulation can prevent up to 35% of heat loss, while wall insulation can further improve energy efficiency. If replacing insulation isn’t an option, using thick rugs, heavy curtains, and thermal blinds can help retain warmth.
When it comes to heating, hydronic heating and reverse-cycle air conditioning offer energy-efficient options. Hydronic systems provide consistent warmth and work well with solar panels, reducing running costs. Finally, taking advantage of natural sunlight during the day and closing curtains at night will help keep warmth inside without increasing energy bills.
2) Should I replace my original windows with double glazing?
Replacing original windows with double glazing is an effective way to improve insulation, but it may not always be possible in period homes due to heritage restrictions. Many councils have regulations that prevent homeowners from altering original features, including windows. If this applies to your home, secondary glazing is a great alternative. This involves adding a second pane inside the existing window frame, which improves insulation and reduces heat loss without changing the external appearance.
Other ways to improve window efficiency include installing heavy curtains with thermal linings, using timber shutters, or applying window insulation film. These solutions can help retain heat during winter while preserving the character of the home.
If noise reduction is also a concern, secondary glazing can help reduce outside sounds while enhancing warmth. For homeowners who want to balance heritage preservation with comfort, a combination of secondary glazing, thermal window coverings, and draught-proofing will provide noticeable benefits.
3) What is the best heating system for a period home?
The best heating system for a period home depends on factors like insulation, home size, and energy efficiency. Hydronic heating is one of the most effective solutions. It uses water to heat radiator panels or underfloor pipes, providing even, consistent warmth. It’s also energy-efficient and works well with solar power, reducing long-term costs.
Reverse-cycle air conditioning is another good option, offering both heating and cooling. It operates efficiently, especially in well-insulated homes. Wood-burning stoves and gas fireplaces provide additional warmth while maintaining the traditional charm of a period home. They also serve as excellent focal points in living areas.
For homes that already have open fireplaces, converting them into more efficient heating sources with fireplace inserts or gas log fires can help. A combination of these heating systems, tailored to your home’s needs, will ensure warmth while keeping energy costs manageable.
4) How do I keep my home warm without making big changes?
There are many simple ways to keep a period home warm without major renovations. The first step is blocking draughts. Placing draught excluders at doorways, sealing gaps in window frames, and using heavy curtains can prevent cold air from entering. Thick, lined curtains with pelmets are particularly effective in stopping heat loss through windows.
Rearranging furniture can also help. Moving seating areas away from windows and closer to heat sources can make a room feel warmer. Using rugs on wooden or tiled floors helps insulate against the cold, as floorboards can let heat escape.
Other small changes include using thermal blankets and cushions in living spaces, leaving the oven open after baking, and lighting candles to create warmth. Even adding extra layers to beds, such as wool blankets and flannel sheets, can make a big difference. These simple, cost-effective adjustments can help keep a period home warm and cosy throughout winter.
5) Are open fireplaces efficient for heating?
Open fireplaces are a beautiful feature in many period homes, but they aren’t the most efficient heating option. While they create a cosy ambiance, they can lose more heat than they generate. A significant amount of warmth escapes through the chimney, making it difficult to maintain a consistently warm indoor temperature.
To improve efficiency, consider installing a fireplace insert. Wood-burning inserts or gas log fireplaces provide better heat retention while still maintaining the traditional aesthetic of an open hearth. If you want to continue using an open fireplace, sealing gaps around the hearth, using a chimney balloon, or installing a damper can help reduce heat loss.
Regular maintenance is also essential. A clean chimney allows for better airflow and ensures efficient burning. Using dry, seasoned wood can improve heat output and reduce smoke buildup. While open fireplaces may not be the most practical primary heating source, these upgrades can make them a more effective and enjoyable addition to your period home.
Stay Warm and Comfortable This Winter
Preparing your period home for winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few smart upgrades can turn your home into a warm, cosy retreat. If you’re thinking about a bigger update, now is a great time to get in touch with the professionals.
Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.