How to get good air circulation in your home?
Did you know that air circulation can have a huge impact on your home? If there isn't enough movement it can lead to serious problems like damp and mould, stagnant air full of contaminants, and bad smells. It also has an impact on heating and cooling. We want to have a closer look here to see what you can do to ensure the air in your home is clean, fresh, and healthy. Then, if you want some help with residential architecture in London, you can rely on us.
How does air move?
The first thing to do is look at how air actually moves. The most important detail to remember is air doesn't want to be still; it naturally wants to move. Your goal is to allow this movement.
A key principle to look at is the stack effect. It is the basic idea of how air behaves. You probably already know about it without knowing the proper name. Generally cold air enters your home from lower levels, including through vents, windows, and cracks in floors. As it warms up, it rises, escaping through higher openings, including the loft and roof. The warming and movement of the air creates a pressure differential that pulls more cold air in through the lower levels.
The second principle to keep in mind is wind effects. If you open windows on both sides of your home, you'll be able to feel airflow between them. It happens because there will be higher air pressure on one side.
Key things to look at
Whether you're thinking about residential architecture in London or homes in any other areas, orientation and the placement of windows is crucial. Ensure your design positions them so you can easily create cross ventilation. It will help get more fresh air into, and dirty air out of, the property.
It's also essential to consider the layout inside the home. There are a few things to avoid, including creating dead ends and making air navigate through a maze of furniture. The goal should be to allow air to flow easily through the property to keep it fresh.
Another key thing to remember is moist air is heavier because of the water particles. That means it can sit for a long time in any areas where the air is still. It can sadly result in damp problems and sticky surfaces. The goal should be to dry the air and ensure movement. Be careful of things like leaks and standing water. Plus, make sure you have additional ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms. Use it whenever people are cooking or bathing.
Finally, it is important to tackle humidity. We all know it's one of the biggest challenges in the UK. High humidity in homes can lead to lots of problems, such as mould and breathing issues. So, you need to think about it and keep it as low as possible. Tackling moisture sources is important. It's also wise to try techniques to dry the air. Dehumidifiers can be a really good investment too.
Speak to us about residential architecture in London
Coffey Residential is an excellent company to work with if you are designing your dream home. We're award winners, adding to our accolades at the 2025 British Home Awards with Architect of the Year, Best Community Living, and Development of the Year (20-100 Homes). If you work with us, you can expect exemplary design on every project.
So, speak to us if you are thinking about residential architecture in London or any other area. We can help you to set a benchmark for your home, ensuring it is the perfect place to live.