As summer’s scorching temperatures rise and energy bills climb, finding cost-effective ways to keep your home cool is a top priority for homeowners. If you’re looking for ways to stay comfortable without breaking the bank, we’ve got some great news for you!
While many of us are familiar with the various ways to improve energy efficiency inside our homes, have you ever considered how smart landscaping choices can help keep your interior cool? For example, strategically placed trees, as suggested by the US Department of Energy, can reduce up to 25% of the energy typically used by an average home. Studies also show that shaded areas by trees can be 3-6 degrees cooler during the day compared to treeless areas. By harnessing the power of energy-efficient landscaping, including smart tree placement and efficient irrigation system usage, you can significantly cut your summer energy expenses.
Let’s explore some simple yet effective ways to achieve this.
Shade Your Home Strategically
When planting trees, don’t do it randomly. Instead, position trees strategically to provide the best shade for your home. Whether they cover the sides or roof, these trees can make a remarkable difference in your home’s temperature. Choose tree varieties with broad, sprawling leaves and branches to maximize their shading benefits. Consult with tree experts at Royal Pr Landscaping to select the right trees for optimal growth and shielding your home from the summer heat.
Utilize Ornamental Vines
Consider incorporating ornamental vines into your landscaping plan. Vines are fast-growing and can be trained to shade windows, providing protection from direct sunlight. Choose from a variety of vine species to add an aesthetic touch to your home’s exterior. You can also introduce trellises for decoration or for vines to climb, or include planter boxes adorned with vines.
Create Shaded Outdoor Retreats
Decks and terraces are excellent gathering spots, especially during the summer. If you’re planning to build a new deck, consider placing it on the east side of your home to shield it from the harsh afternoon sun. Additionally, window canopies or awnings can be effective in preventing direct sunlight from entering your home, keeping it cool and comfortable.
Optimize Your Irrigation System
Efficiently conserving water and energy is essential. Upgrading your irrigation system can yield significant benefits. A well-designed irrigation system efficiently covers your lawn, reducing the time needed for watering. This not only conserves water but also minimizes energy usage, saving you money and preventing high utility bills.
Keep Your Foundation Cool
Maintaining a cool foundation can help beat the heat. Keeping the exterior of your foundation damp can lead to lower ground temperatures around your house. You can achieve this by using a small sprinkler or soaker hose around the foundation to keep the area adequately moist during the summer.
Embrace Natural Greenery
If you want to lower your home’s temperature, natural grass is the way to go. While outdoor living spaces made of concrete, brick, or stone may be practical, they can trap heat around your home, causing cooling costs to rise. Natural grass helps keep your surroundings cooler and more energy-efficient.
Let the experts at ‘Royal Pro Landscaping’ guide you towards intelligent landscaping and irrigation choices that will help you stay cool this summer without straining your budget. We specialize in solutions that can make a significant difference in your comfort and energy savings.