Lack of natural light in the home a problem for two in five in South West

Homeowners and renters in the South West admit a lack of natural light at home is making them miserable, with 41% admitting their home lacks natural light or they wish they had more. This resulted in almost a quarter feeling fatigued and unhealthy.  

The nationwide study from MyGlazing.com, the consumer advice site from the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF), asked 1,000 homeowners and renters for their opinions on how healthy their homes are and how this impacts their personal wellbeing.

Almost a quarter of those surveyed in the South West admit working from home has been challenging due to their homes being uncomfortable because of extreme temperatures (either too hot or too cold). A further 27% say their home has poor ventilation, while 29% admit to having damp and almost a quarter said draughty windows are a problem for them. On average, homeowners and renters in the South West are also losing sleep at least once a week as a result of noise entering their homes.

Commenting on how having low levels of natural light in the home impacts them, the below responses appeared top amongst consumers in the South West:  

o   28% feel miserable     

o   23% feel tired 

o   23% feel unhealthy     

o   23% feel depressed   

o   23% feel less optimistic

o   21% feel irritable

o   13% feel drained        

o   10% feel less productive at work        

o   5% feel anxious          

Commenting on the findings, James Lee, communications director at MyGlazing.com, said: “Many of the problems people face when it comes to improving comfort in their homes, actually comes down to things that are easy to fix such as windows, doors and the overall look of their home. Research shows that the average person in the UK spends 90% of their time indoors, so it’s crucial that the buildings they occupy are enabling them to lead healthier lives. Our information hub over at MyGlazing.com is full of free tips and creative ideas for those looking to make their homes healthier and more comfortable.”

MyGlazing.com has also offered its five top tips to help increase natural light levels in the home:

1.      Clean your windows more often so they let more light in or consider low maintenance (self-cleaning) glass

2.      Install larger windows and doors, or install bi-fold doors, skylights or fanlights where possible

3.      Reconfigure your furniture so it isn’t blocking any windows or incoming light 

4.      Incorporate mirrors and metallic accessories into the design of the home, to give the illusion of more space and light

5.      Ensure your colour palette and flooring choices are light and airy. Dark colours tend to make spaces feel smaller and drab

6.      Have easy to open blinds or curtains that can let in as much light as possible

Visit MyGlazing.com for more independent and free advice on glazing home improvements.