How to keep your cold Villa warm this Winter (Until you Renovate)
If you live in a 1920s villa in suburbs like Freemans Bay, Ponsonby, or Grey Lynn, you’ll know how icy they can get in winter. These beautiful homes are full of character, but they were never designed with warmth, insulation, or energy efficiency in mind.
The good news is you don’t need to wait for a full villa renovation to enjoy a warmer, drier home. With a few smart upgrades, you can cut down on draughts, reduce dampness, and finally stay comfortable through winter.
1. Improve Insulation: Ceiling and Underfloor First
The single most effective step in heating an old villa is improving insulation. Without it, heat escapes faster than you can replace it.
Ceiling insulation:
At least 12cm thick
Continuous coverage, with no gaps or compression
Dry and free from rodent damage
If your ceiling insulation is thin or patchy, add another layer. If it’s damp or damaged, replace it entirely.
Underfloor insulation:
No insulation? Add bulk insulation.
Old foil insulation? Don’t touch it! Foil can be hazardous, so call a professional.
Bulk insulation already there? Make sure it’s snug and gap-free.
Tip: Save wall insulation for your villa renovation. Focus on ceiling and underfloor first; it’s faster, cheaper, and delivers results immediately.
2. Upgrade Inefficient Heating
Oil column heaters are common in villas, but they struggle in large, draughty rooms.
Better options for old villas in Auckland:
Heat pumps for living areas – efficient, reliable, and easy to retrofit.
Panel heaters in bedrooms – affordable and energy-efficient, available at Mitre 10 and Placemakers.
3. Reduce Dampness and Moisture
A dry home is just as important as a warm one. Dampness not only makes your villa feel colder but also causes mould and health issues.
Steps to reduce moisture:
Fit extraction fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
Dry clothes outside or use a vented dryer.
Use a dehumidifier in bedrooms or damp spaces.
When you plan your villa renovation, talk to your builder about ducted heating and ventilation systems for long-term comfort.
4. Stop Heat Loss Through Timber Windows
Most villas still have single-glazed timber windows. While they look great, they let out a huge amount of heat.
Short-term solution: Seal obvious cracks with gap filler.
Long-term solution: Replace with custom double-glazed timber joinery.
At Next Level Construct, we recommend Next Level Joinery, who specialise in handcrafted timber windows and doors for villa renovations across Auckland.
5. Plan Your Heating Strategy Early
When you renovate your villa, heating and ventilation should be one of your top priorities.
Best option: Ducted heat pump systems. They’re discreet, efficient, and work well with villa layouts.
Don’t leave this conversation until you’re deep into renovation drawings. Discuss heating and ventilation with your builder early to get the best result.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to wait for a full renovation to enjoy a warmer villa. By improving insulation, upgrading your heaters, sealing draughts, and tackling dampness, you can make your Auckland villa more comfortable right away.
About Next Level Construct
Next Level Construct is an award-winning renovation company based in Auckland. Founded by Brendon Sowerby, the team specialises in villa renovations, extensions, and new builds. With more than 17 years of experience, Brendon has helped countless Auckland families transform cold, drafty villas into modern, warm, dry homes; without losing their heritage charm.
Ready to Renovate Your Villa?
Contact Brendon today to discuss your villa renovation in Auckland.
brendon@nextlevelconstruct.co.nz
