Summer in the UK and Ireland used to mean the occasional warm day, maybe a fan or two in the bedroom. But let’s be honest — things have changed. With each passing year, the temperatures are climbing, heatwaves are becoming the norm, and many homes just aren’t built to handle it.
If your living room turns into a sauna by midday or your bedroom feels like an oven at night, you’re not alone. Most houses here were designed to keep heat in — not out. And without air conditioning, it can feel like there’s no escape. More and more people are searching for how to keep their homes cool in summer without AC — and the solution might be simpler than you think.
At Fenbro, we’ve seen just how effective the right window coverings can be. Well-chosen shutters — and in some cases, screen blinds — can block sunlight before it even reaches the glass, helping to reduce indoor temperatures and improve comfort throughout the summer. Let’s have a closer look at how.
Why prepare for summer heat now?
British homes are not typically built with extreme heat in mind. Many lack air conditioning, insulation is often designed for cold winters, and large windows can easily turn a room into a greenhouse during the hottest months. Waiting until the heat arrives can be too late—preparing early means you’ll enjoy a cooler, more comfortable space from the first heatwave onward.
Shutters do more than add character. They provide passive cooling, helping to regulate the indoor temperature and reduce your reliance on fans or electric air conditioning. In the long run, that means lower energy bills, better sleep, and a more sustainable way to handle summer heat.
Do shutters help with heat in summer?
The answer is yes — and typically more effectively than blinds. Especially in their external or insulated forms, these window coverings offer excellent thermal performance thanks to their solid build and tight fit. By blocking sunlight before it even reaches the glass, they help prevent heat buildup at the source.At Fenbro, we offer several models that are perfect for summer:
- Top-Mounted Roller Shutters – installed directly into the window frame for maximum insulation.
- Concealed Roller Shutters – hidden from view when open, sleek and efficient.
- Venetian Shutters – allow for light control without sacrificing air circulation.
- Adaptive Roller Shutters – ideal for renovations or retrofitting, combining effective sun protection with flexible installation
These solutions not only keep your interiors cooler during heatwaves, but they also help reduce energy use by limiting the need for electric fans or cooling systems. Their sturdy design requires minimal upkeep, making them a practical and cost-effective choice in the long term. Whether you’re upgrading a modern home or retrofitting an older one, Fenbro shutters deliver dependable performance without compromising on appearance.
What about blinds?
We get it – shutters aren’t always the right fit. Maybe they don’t suit your style, or you’re after something a little more straightforward. That’s where our screen blinds come in. They’re a lighter option, but still effective when it comes to keeping out the summer heat.
Made from durable, weather-resistant materials like fibreglass and PVC, our screen blinds help reduce heat, block UV rays and cut down on glare – all without shutting out your view.
Here’s what else they offer:
- A barrier against insects and dust when lowered
- A choice of fabrics – from light-filtering to full blackout
- Solid wind resistance, with an optional ZIP system for extra stability
They might not insulate quite like shutters, but they’re a great option if you want to improve indoor comfort and still let the light in. Still, for many homeowners, screen blinds are among the best blinds to keep heat out while preserving outdoor visibility. And with a clean, modern look, they work well on both houses and flats.
What to look for in heat-reducing window coverings?
When choosing window coverings to keep heat out, like shutters or screen blinds, consider the following features:
- Material — durable aluminium or composite materials are ideal for heat control
- Colour — light colours reflect heat more effectively
- Coverage — full coverage ensures sunlight and heat are blocked efficiently
- Fit — the closer the covering is to the window, the better it performs.
Function meets form—just because you’re cooling your home doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice aesthetics. Fenbro shutters are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any interior or exterior. If you need help deciding which option works best for your space, check out our guide here.
Which rooms benefit the most from heat-blocking shutters?
Some areas of your home will feel the effects of the sun more than others:
- Bedrooms — insulated shutters create restful, cool environments
- Living rooms — large windows? Choose top-mounted or concealed shutters for sun glare control
- Kitchens — durable Venetian shutters resist heat and humidity
- Lofts or upper floors — use external roller shutters to prevent overheating.
Target these rooms first if you’re not planning to upgrade the entire house at once.
Do heat-blocking shutters look good?
Absolutely yes. Today’s solutions balance style and function beautifully. If you love classic interiors, Venetian shutters bring charm and easy light control. For a modern, minimalist look, top-mounted roller shutters are a great choice. Concealed systems offer a clean, seamless finish, while adaptive models are perfect for retrofitting and can be colour-matched to your home’s exterior. Light-coloured shutters and blinds are especially effective, as they not only reflect heat but also make your interiors feel brighter and more open. No matter your style, there is a smart, attractive way to stay cool this summer.
How to keep your home cool in summer without AC?
Keeping your home cool in the summer doesn’t have to involve expensive air conditioning systems. In fact, most UK homes manage without AC—relying instead on passive cooling methods that are just as effective when applied strategically. So, how can you lower the temperature indoors without adding to your energy bills?
Keep shutters closed during the day
Especially on sun-facing windows, shutters are your first line of defence. By closing them in the morning and keeping them shut through the hottest hours, you prevent direct sunlight from entering and heating up your interiors. This simple step can make rooms feel several degrees cooler.
Open windows at night to release heat
Take advantage of cooler evening and overnight temperatures. Once the sun sets, open your windows to let trapped heat escape. Cross-ventilation—opening windows on opposite sides of the house—can help create airflow that flushes out warm air and invites refreshing breezes.
Use light-coloured coverings to reflect sunlight
Light shades, both inside and outside, reflect heat instead of absorbing it. Choosing white or neutral shutters not only helps regulate indoor temperature but also brightens the space visually.
Consider external roller shutters for maximum insulation
Among all shading solutions, external roller shutters offer the best protection from heat. They create a barrier before sunlight hits the windowpane, significantly reducing the greenhouse effect. They’re particularly useful for large glazing surfaces or rooms that get strong afternoon sun.
Upgrade single-glazed windows if possible
While not a quick fix, replacing old windows with modern double- or triple-glazing can improve thermal comfort. When combined with shutters, this duo offers superior heat resistance and long-term energy savings.
These simple ways to cool down a room can be surprisingly effective, even in homes without air conditioning. The more barriers you create between your living space and the summer heat, whether that’s using shutters, adding reflective fabrics, upgrading your glazing or improving ventilation, the cooler and more comfortable your home will feel throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do shutters really help keep the heat out during summer?
Yes – especially Fenbro’s external and top-mounted shutters, which block sunlight before it reaches the glass and help lower indoor temperatures.
Are shutters more effective than blinds when it comes to cooling a home?
Yes. Shutters offer better insulation. Fenbro’s screen blinds reduce glare and UV, but shutters provide stronger protection against heat.
Can I install shutters in an older building or during renovation?
Yes. Fenbro’s adaptive shutters are made for retrofitting and suit both older and renovated homes.
Will shutters affect the look of my home?
No – they’re available in many colours and finishes, including concealed and top-mounted, and fit both modern and classic styles.
Are screen blinds a good alternative if I don’t want shutters?
Yes – they help reduce heat and glare while letting in light and keeping your view. They’re also weather-resistant and easy to use.
What are the best blinds to block heat in summer?
Fenbro’s screen blinds are among the best blinds to keep heat out, especially in rooms with large windows. They reduce glare and UV while keeping your view.
