In Belgium, many homes have been designed to retain heat in winter. However, when they are poorly insulated, inadequately ventilated, or equipped with old frames, they can quickly become uncomfortable during heatwaves: overheated rooms, heavy indoor air, disrupted sleep, and frequent reliance on fans or air conditioning.
These heat episodes often reveal the weaknesses of the building. They can also become an opportunity to undertake a comprehensive energy renovation to improve comfort year-round, reduce consumption, and enhance the property.
With Avenir Rénovations, individuals can receive support for their insulation, ventilation, frame replacement, or overall renovation projects.
Heat reveals the weaknesses of the home
A high-performing home must protect its occupants from the cold, but also from extreme heat. When temperatures remain high in the evening, when bedrooms are difficult to cool, or when attic rooms become uninhabitable, several causes may be at play:
- Insufficiently insulated roof;
- Old glazing or frames;
- Poor ventilation;
- Poor air circulation;
- Lack of solar protections.
Addressing these various elements helps stabilize indoor temperature and sustainably improve comfort.
Insulation, a year-round priority
Insulation limits heat loss in winter but also slows the entry of heat in summer.
The roof is one of the most sensitive points, as it remains directly exposed to the sun. Its insulation helps reduce overheating in bedrooms, offices converted from attics, and rooms located on the upper floors.
Walls and floors also play an important role. Depending on the building, it is possible to consider interior, exterior, or cavity wall insulation. The solution depends on the condition of the home, its configuration, and the available budget.
Replacing old frames and glazing
Many Belgian homes still have poorly performing windows. They can cause heat loss in winter and promote overheating in summer.
Replacing old frames with more efficient models improves thermal and acoustic insulation. When combined with double or triple glazing, they help reduce temperature fluctuations while maintaining good brightness.
These works are particularly beneficial for homes that are very exposed to the sun, large bay windows, and properties located near roadways.
Ventilating to preserve air quality
During high heat, ventilation is essential to renew indoor air and expel humidity.
A better-insulated home must also be properly ventilated. Otherwise, humidity can promote condensation, mold, unpleasant odors, and deterioration of finishes.
Therefore, insulation and ventilation must be considered together to maintain a healthy and comfortable interior.
Installing solar protections
Solar protections are becoming increasingly useful in Belgium. Exterior blinds, shutters, screens, sunshades, or pergolas help limit direct sunlight entry.
These devices are particularly suited for south- or west-facing rooms, conservatories, attic bedrooms, and apartments located on upper floors.
By blocking heat before it enters the home, they help reduce reliance on fans and air conditioning.
Planning the work in the right order
Installing a cooling system in a poorly insulated home provides a temporary improvement but does not address the underlying issue.
It is preferable to first address the building envelope. Depending on the condition of the home, the priorities may be as follows:
- Insulation of the roof, walls, or floors;
- Replacement of old frames;
- Improvement of ventilation;
- Installation of solar protections;
- Optimization of heating or cooling.
This approach allows for reducing energy needs before choosing new equipment.
Renovation aids in Belgium
Renovation grants vary depending on the region where the property is located. The programs are not the same in Wallonia, Brussels, and Flanders.
Depending on the applicable conditions, some aids may relate to insulation, ventilation, heating, or energy improvement of the building. It is therefore important to check the applicable criteria before starting work.
Why choose Avenir Rénovations?
An energy renovation requires a comprehensive analysis of the home: orientation, insulation, ventilation, equipment, building condition, and occupant needs.
Avenir Rénovations accomplish...
