Winter is already felt in every corner of the country, and sub-zero temperatures show no mercy. While many wonder how to survive the cold without the gas bill skyrocketing, architects and interior designers have come to the rescue with practical and effective tips. The key lies in materials and home orientation, but also in details that many overlook.
“It is important to absorb heat and retain it through porous materials,” says interior designer Fátima Bandeira, founder of FA Interiores. These elements act as air traps: they retain high temperatures and function as natural thermal insulation. Rugs, cushions, fabric curtains, upholstery, and wooden floors are the best allies for preserving heat from the heater. “You turn on a heater and the heat stays in those materials. The heat is stored there and helps make the space warmer,” explains Bandeira.
The specialist recalls that in the era of castles, when there was no heating, walls were covered with tapestries to retain heat. Today, the same logic applies: the more porous the decorative materials, the warmer the environment. She also recommends double-glazed windows (DVH) and PVC or aluminum frames with thermal break. She also suggests using thermal curtains and closing blinds at dusk to maintain the temperature accumulated during the day.
But it’s not all about decoration. The solar orientation of the home is crucial. Gabriel Joga, director and architect at Grupo 8.66, points out that “the best orientation is north, as the home receives the most sunlight during the day.” Therefore, he recommends placing common areas—like the living room and kitchen—in the sector that receives the most sun, and leaving bathrooms and laundry rooms in the shadier parts. “If large windows are placed facing the sun, a lot of light and natural heat will enter during winter,” he adds. In contrast, windows on the south side should be smaller to avoid cold wind.
Wall color also plays a key role. “We use light colors indoors to reflect heat and light, and darker colors on surfaces that need to absorb and retain heat,” explain Grupo 8.66. Additionally, they plan to use high thermal mass materials, such as concrete, brick, or stone, in areas that receive direct sunlight: these store heat during the day and release it slowly at night.
From Andima, the National Association of Insulating Materials Industries, Federico García Zuñiga warns that “it is necessary to carefully examine ceilings, walls, and floors to ensure efficient thermal insulation.” And the ceiling is the great enemy: 40% of heat escapes through it, as it is the surface most exposed to the outside climate. “It is the part of homes where efforts must be redoubled when it comes to thermal insulation,” they insist. Walls are responsible for 30% of heat loss, and floors for 10%. Materials like fiberglass, expanded polystyrene, and polyurethane are ideal for preventing leaks. According to Andima, with efficient thermal insulation, you can save up to 35% on total energy consumption and up to 70% on electricity and gas bills.
In summary, to avoid freezing or burning through your budget, you need to attack on all fronts: rugs, curtains, colors, orientation, and insulation. The formula is simple: trap the heat and don’t let it escape. Winter has just begun, but with these tricks, your home can be a warm refuge without breaking the bank.
Para mí esto es un verso de chetos. Alfombras térmicas? Mientras los laburantes se congelan ellos se calientan con truquitos. El verdadero secreto es expropiar la energía, nacionalizar el gas. Abajo el negocio privado, arriba el calor del pueblo. Vamos por todo, carajo.
Para mí estos progres quieren que nos caguemos de frío con sus truquitos de hippies. Alfombras y cortinas carísimas, pero ellos no ahorran ni en discursos. Bajá los impuestos, dejame comprar gas barato y no me hinchés las pelotas. Calor es un derecho, no un lujo de zurdos.