Keeping a conservatory cool during the summer months can feel like a challenge, especially when those bitter-sweet temperatures soar. We spend all year complaining we get no hot weather, and then when it arrives, we can’t handle the heat… Classic Brits. 

But, with the right adjustments – both big and small – you can turn your conservatory into a comfortable space all year round. 

Through this guide, we’ll explore why conservatories often overheat and share 15 effective ways to keep yours cool when the weather warms up.

Why Does a Conservatory Get So Hot In Summer?

Firstly, it’s important to note that not all conservatories overheat – a conservatory that’s built correctly and well-maintained can stay far more temperate, even in warm weather. Just like the conservatories we build here at West Midlands Double Glazing.

But alas, many conservatories are naturally prone to feeling like a greenhouse when the sun’s blazing down onto them, which makes some conservatories not as functional in warm weather.

Large glass windows, clear roofing and extended sun exposure allow heat to enter and get trapped inside, creating a greenhouse-like effect. That, combined with poor ventilation or older glazing, can amplify the problem, making the space feel stuffy and uncomfortable.

However, with thoughtful design choices and a few strategic tweaks, you can significantly reduce heat build-up and enjoy the space throughout summer.

15 Best Ways to Cool Down a Conservatory In Warm Weather

1. Use Blinds or Window Shades

Not only do they provide privacy, but blinds and shades act as a physical barrier between the sun and your interior space. 

Whether you choose Venetian, pleated or thermal blinds, each option reduces glare and heat gain, helping to make the room more comfortable. 

They’re also a simple way to match the aesthetic of your conservatory, creating a modern, sleek look if you want to decorate your conservatory in a contemporary style.

2. Install a Tiled Conservatory Roof

One of the most impactful ways to cool down your conservatory in summer is by switching to a tiled conservatory roof. 

Unlike clear polycarbonate or glass roofs, tiles provide excellent insulation and significantly reduce solar gain. 

This helps maintain a cooler interior in summer and a warmer feel in winter – in other words, a win-win all year round. Although it’s a larger investment, it can transform your comfort levels and ensure the room is functional throughout the seasons.

3. Air Conditioning

While residential AC is less common in the UK, having air conditioning in your conservatory can offer instant relief on hot days and give you precise control over your conservatory’s temperature. 

Modern units are energy-efficient and quieter than you might expect, making them ideal for regular use to keep the room as functional as possible, regardless of the weather. 

Top tip: AC is especially helpful for conservatories that double as living or working spaces, making it a real game-changer to how frequently the room is used.

4. Improve ventilation 

Good airflow is essential for cooling down a conservatory naturally. 

Simply opening windows, roof vents or conservatory doors on opposite sides of the room encourages cross-ventilation and helps expel warm air. 

Even small gaps can make a noticeable difference, especially during mornings and evenings when the outdoor temperatures drop.

5. Flooring

Flooring plays a bigger role in heat retention than many people realise. 

Carpet tends to trap warmth, making it a poor choice for hot summer months – so, we’d recommend steering clear and investing in a big rug instead to keep things cosy in the winter. 

Cooler alternatives like tiles, stone, or laminate absorb less heat and help regulate the temperature more effectively.

6. Install a ceiling fan 

A ceiling fan keeps air circulating, helping the conservatory feel cooler and fresher without relying on high-energy appliances. 

While fans don’t always reduce the temperature directly, the breeze they create makes the space much more comfortable for relaxing in. 

Top tip: Choose a model with a summer setting that pushes air downward for optimal cooling when the temperatures rise.

7. Apply a cooling window film 

For an affordable solution that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics, cooling or solar-control window films are a simple and unobtrusive way to reduce heat gain. 

They work by blocking a portion of the sun’s infrared radiation while still letting natural light in. 

This simple upgrade can significantly lower indoor temperatures without altering the overall look of your conservatory.

8. Light coloured furnishings

Opting for light-coloured furniture and decor can noticeably reduce heat absorption. 

Dark fabrics and materials soak up sunlight, radiating warmth back into the room and making it even hotter (which, obviously, isn’t ideal when it’s 30+ degrees outside). 

Lighter shades reflect sunlight instead, helping keep your conservatory feeling bright, airy, and cool. More neutral tones also add to a modern feel, keeping your conservatory decor on-trend.

9. Installing shutters

Shutters can also offer excellent control over light and temperature, allowing you to block out the hottest part of the day. 

They provide better insulation than many blinds and can be adjusted to let in just the right amount of air and light. Plus, they add a timeless, stylish feel to any conservatory.

Top tip: Install remote-controlled smart shutters so you can open and close them at the touch of a button, making relaxing in your conservatory a breeze.

10. Smart temperature control 

Keeping on theme, smart thermostats and automated systems make keeping your conservatory cool both convenient and efficient. 

With programmable schedules or app control, you can manage temperature settings even when you’re not at home (which can be really useful if you know you’ll want to use the conservatory later, allowing you to make sure it’s cooled down for you by that time). 

This ensures the space stays usable and comfortable without wasting energy. 

11. Buy plants

Did you know, plants naturally cool the air through evapotranspiration, releasing moisture that helps lower surrounding temperatures? 

In short, plants make things cooler (which we think is pretty cool in itself!)

A selection of leafy indoor plants can make your conservatory feel fresher and more vibrant. They also improve air quality, adding to the comfort of the space.

12. Plant trees or shrubbery outside

And if plants in your conservatory aren’t enough greenery for you, landscaping around your conservatory can provides natural shade and reduce direct sunlight hitting the glass. 

Well-placed trees or tall shrubs can block harsh sun rays during peak times of day. Beyond cooling benefits, they also enhance your garden’s look and create a more harmonious outdoor space.

This is especially helpful if you’d like to use your conservatory in the afternoons and you’re met with the sun’s glare, preventing you from using the room in the way you’d like. But, no fear – trees to the rescue!

13. Avoid over-furnishing

Also, adding too much furniture to your conservatory can restrict airflow and make the space feel stuffy. Keeping the layout open and uncluttered allows the space to “breathe” and improves overall ventilation. 

We’d recommend choosing fewer, well-placed pieces to maintain comfort without sacrificing style.

Read more about conservatory decor and furnishing ideas from our helpful guide.

14. Upgrade glazing

Another fun fact incoming – did you know that modern double or triple glazing reduces heat gain in the summer while also preventing heat loss in winter? 

In short, that’s a win-win for modern glazing, making it one of the most effective solutions for year-round comfort. 

Though upgrading glazing is an investment, it pays off through improved efficiency and a more enjoyable living environment.

15. Install solar control or tinted glazing

And lastly, solar control or tinted glazing helps minimise the amount of heat entering your conservatory. 

These specialised glass options reduce glare and UV rays while still allowing plenty of natural light. 

It’s a subtle upgrade that won’t break the bank, but promises to deliver powerful cooling benefits during the summer months.

Put Your Trust in a Reputable Home Improvements Company 

And lastly, one of the biggest ways to keep a conservatory cool in the summer is ensuring that the build and materials are of the highest quality. That’s where West Midlands Double Glazing comes in. 

With over 150 positive Google reviews, we’ve built a reputation as one of the most reliable and customer-focused companies in the region. We also offer a variety of finance options, including buy-now-pay-later plans, and at the time of writing, we’re the only provider in the West Midlands to offer finance terms of up to 20 years on conservatory projects.

Ready to start planning your new conservatory, or updating an existing build? Get in touch with a member of our amazing team today to book in for your FREE quote and consultation.