Bathroom Heating: Some Like It Hot

While there are lots of lovely things about the cooler months, a cold, damp bathroom isn’t one of them. Our experts share their insights on how to transform your space into a heated winter haven

- Kate Barber

A sun-drenched bathroom is the perfect retreat and the sun’s warmth helps take the chill off during winter.

As your bathroom floor hits sub-Arctic temperatures underfoot and steamy showers get longer and longer, one of the hardest-working rooms in your home needs to be toasty and warm, while fending off the dreaded mould and mildew that can creep up on this space. Luckily, if your bathroom is more brrrr than bliss, there are still plenty of ways you can keep this zone warm and dry. Here’s how to beat the chill and choose the best solutions for your bathroom, budget and needs.

Question time

First, consider how damp your bathroom is and how cold it gets in the winter months. Is it sun-drenched or in a dark corner of your home? Then, take a look at the size of the space and what heating or ventilation you think you are missing. Another question to ask yourself is whether you’re doing a full reno or just want to retrofit with a few extra elements, as this will affect what you can do.

Here comes the sun

An over-sized window is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to heat a bathroom with the sun’s rays and allow steam to escape. “Louvres are extremely popular because they are dual-purpose with multiple angled openings that can also offer privacy,” explains Alanna Smit, principal designer at Alanna Smit Structural Interiors, who says other good options include sliding, casement or sash windows. Just make sure whatever you choose can be left open in all weather. If you can’t access the great outdoors via a window, a skylight is the next best thing and is easy to install with the help of a builder or carpenter, says Alanna.

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