Perhaps its not something you would at first think about if you are looking to save on indoor cooling costs, but a purposefully designed landscape can do just that. How, you may wonder? By using the method of landscape shading. This is the careful positioning of trees and shrubs so that they provide shade to parts of the home which see the most sun. This method is worth considering as it could lower indoor temperatures by as much as 9 degrees.
One of the keys to providing shade to the home in the exact area its needed during the hot summer months is careful planning. Knowing just where to plant the trees requires a lot of thought. You will also need to think about what trees you want to use. If you want the maximum shade possible, choose a denser kind of tree. If you want maximum shade during summer but want to enjoy the suns heat on the home during winter, then its best to select deciduous trees which will lose their leaves during winter.
Another thing you will want to consider is the length of time it will take for the trees to reach full height; it could take some time before you see the benefits. If you are looking for more immediate results, why not try vines? These can be grown around fences and trellis and provide very good shade. If you would like some shade to fall on pathways or the driveway shrubs can be a good option.
Designing your homes landscape carefully can not only be a beautiful sight to enjoy but can also work to save you money.
One of the keys to providing shade to the home in the exact area its needed during the hot summer months is careful planning. Knowing just where to plant the trees requires a lot of thought. You will also need to think about what trees you want to use. If you want the maximum shade possible, choose a denser kind of tree. If you want maximum shade during summer but want to enjoy the suns heat on the home during winter, then its best to select deciduous trees which will lose their leaves during winter.
Another thing you will want to consider is the length of time it will take for the trees to reach full height; it could take some time before you see the benefits. If you are looking for more immediate results, why not try vines? These can be grown around fences and trellis and provide very good shade. If you would like some shade to fall on pathways or the driveway shrubs can be a good option.
Designing your homes landscape carefully can not only be a beautiful sight to enjoy but can also work to save you money.