It's freezing!

I am a typical Scotsman (if the media is to be believed) I would rather be a bit cold than put on the heating and pay. As I type this I am jiggling about, trying to keep my hands and feet warm, constant cups of coffee help somewhat but I am still cold.

The problem, other than my thrifty sensibility, is that I live in a 1930's house with mass stone walls and no insulation. When these houses were built, coal would have been the primary fuel and a fire would have burned all day, every day keeping the base temperature of the house at a constant level. As the house would have been occupied for the majority of the day, there would have been very little need for a 'quick fix' as far as heating is concerned.

Freetime and lack of it would also have played a part in the comfort of the householder. Women, as the daytime occupants (pre-enlightenment) would have had very little 'me-time' and would have been constantly active. Without amazing domestic appliances, it would have been movement that kept them warm.

We can't and shouldn't go back to the old days, times have changed, the make-up of the family has changed and the way we use our homes has changed. Instead, we should look for a solution:

Insulation is the best single thing you can do to improve your house, double glazing has a very long return time and extra heating just isn't an option. Many of the gas and electric companies are duty bound to assist you in decreasing your energy needs. As part of this they will subsidise loft and cavity wall insulation (costing you around £300). Or you can do it yourself? The SBSA (Scottish building standards agency) produce documents which advise householders on the best way to reduce energy use and the most efficient means to introduce insulation.

Don't be left in the cold.