House extensions: overheating risks you should know first

Designing glazed extensions without the risk of overheating

Natural light and expansive glazing are at the top of most clients’ wish lists when designing an extension or new home. Large bespoke bi-folds, sliding panels and floor-to-ceiling glass create a striking aesthetic and an uplifting connection to the outdoors. But while glass brings luxury and light, it can also bring challenges, particularly overheating.

A beautifully designed home should be comfortable all year round. Overheating occurs when a property cannot regulate internal temperatures effectively, leaving rooms uncomfortably hot in summer. As modern homes become more airtight and heavily glazed, it’s an issue that requires careful planning from the outset.

Why it happens

Glass performs very differently from an insulated wall. It allows radiant heat from the sun to pour in during summer, often trapping it indoors—something anyone who has stepped into a stifling conservatory will recognise. With climate change and warmer summers, overheating is no longer a rare inconvenience but a design priority.

Design strategies to prevent overheating

The orientation, size and specification of glazing all play a critical role in managing temperature. Our design process explores solutions such as:

• Solar shading: Extended soffits, brise-soleil, or strategically positioned deciduous trees that block high summer sun while allowing low winter light to filter through.
• Advanced glazing: Modern glass technology can reduce solar gain without compromising on clarity.
• Thermal mass: Incorporating elements like concrete floors, stone finishes or masonry walls helps absorb heat by day and release it during cooler evenings.
• Cross ventilation: Effective airflow between openings creates natural cooling. This must be carefully designed, particularly in terraced or semi-detached homes.

Balancing beauty and comfort

At Acre Design, we believe your home should not only look exceptional but feel exceptional to live in. Achieving this balance requires thoughtful planning that goes far beyond aesthetics. By addressing thermal comfort at the design stage, we ensure your home remains cool in summer, warm in winter and effortlessly elegant all year round.

Thinking about a glazed extension or new build project in Newcastle or the North East? Our team will guide you through every design consideration to ensure your home is stunning, sustainable and comfortable.

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