As the temperatures drop, many homeowners across the UK start to wonder why their heating bills are going up, even when their radiators are on full blast. One common cause that often gets overlooked? Your storage areas.
Whether it’s a garage, loft, utility cupboard, or an under-stair space, poorly insulated storage zones can allow cold air to creep in and warmth to escape. Below we’ll explore how storage areas might be affecting your home’s temperature and what you can do about it.
1. Why Storage Areas Matter More Than You Think
Storage rooms are typically the least prioritised spaces in any house. They’re not used daily, so insulation and draught-proofing are often neglected during construction or renovations. However, these areas are still connected to your living space, and cold air doesn’t stay put. If your storage area shares a wall with your living room or sits beneath a bedroom, that cold air can easily transfer through floors and walls. And if there’s an unsealed door or gap, the chilly air enters freely into the warmer areas, making your boiler work harder than it needs to.
2. Signs Your Storage Area Is Letting the Cold In
Wondering if your storage room is to blame? Here are a few signs:
Cold draughts near internal doors or under the stairs
Condensation or mould in nearby rooms
Unusual temperature drops in certain parts of your home
Visible gaps around doors or flooring near the storage area
A boiler that runs more frequently despite the thermostat settings
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth taking a closer look at how that storage space is affecting your home’s overall warmth.
3. Common Cold Spots: Areas to Inspect
Not all storage spaces are equal, but some are more likely to cause temperature issues than others:
Lofts
Poor insulation in the loft can let warm air rise and escape. Check if insulation is laid evenly across the entire floor and isn’t compressed or wet.
Garages
If your garage is attached to your house, cold air can seep through shared walls. Consider insulating the garage door and sealing gaps.
Cupboards Under Stairs
Often left unsealed, these can become major draught zones. Installing a draught excluder around the door frame and insulating the inner wall can make a big difference.
Utility Rooms or Storage Closets
Pipes running through these areas may also be affected by freezing temperatures. Insulating the walls and pipework not only helps with heat retention but also prevents frozen pipe issues.
4. What You Can Do Today
You don’t need major work to make a difference. Try these simple fixes:
Seal gaps: Use weather stripping or silicone sealant around doors, skirting boards, and window frames
Add insulation: A roll of loft insulation or a bit of foam board in the cupboard walls can slow heat loss
Use draught excluders: Place them at the base of internal doors leading to unheated spaces
Check ventilation: Some cold spots are worsened by moisture build-up. Ensure there’s proper airflow
Install a door curtain: A heavy curtain behind a door leading to a cold area can help block out cold air
5. When to Call a Professional
If you’ve taken basic steps and still feel cold spots, it might be time to bring in an expert. A professional can:
Carry out a thermal inspection to identify where heat is escaping
Advise on cost-effective insulation options for your specific home layout
Check for electrical or plumbing issues that might be contributing to the problem
Help with pipe insulation or upgrades that prevent cold damage
You can request a visit or inspection if you suspect a wiring issue or need assistance with heating and plumbing concerns.
Conclusion
You might not spend much time in your storage areas, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t silently impacting your home’s comfort and energy use. A cold storage room isn’t just inconvenient, it can raise your energy bills, cause condensation, and even damage nearby structures over time. Before winter sets in fully, take a walk around your home and inspect those forgotten corners. With a few simple improvements or a bit of help from the right professional, you can keep the warmth in and the chill out, even in the coldest months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my storage area is causing heat loss?
Look for cold draughts, temperature differences in nearby rooms, condensation or damp patches, or unusually high heating bills.
Is it worth insulating a loft or garage that I don’t use daily?
Yes. Even unused spaces impact adjacent rooms. Insulation helps keep the warmth where it belongs.
Can I do this myself or do I need a professional?
Many small fixes like sealing gaps or adding draught excluders can be done yourself. But if heat loss continues or dampness worsens, it’s best to seek professional support.
Do you provide inspections or help with these kinds of cold spots?
Yes. You can request help for insulation, electrical checks, or pipe protection services, and the experts will take care of them.
What areas do you cover?
The experts are available across the UK. To see the full list of services and locations, please visit our web.