Landscaping for Energy Efficiency
by Dan Eskelson on May 2, 2012
The proper placement of trees and shrubs around a home will have a significant impact on the energy required to heat and cool the structure. The few simple strategies outlined below will not only increase the property value of your home but also decrease energy costs. Techniques will vary slightly from region to region, but with knowledge of local conditions and some common sense, the immediate environment can be maximized for energy efficiency.
Planting shade trees to the south of your home is one of the most obvious energy-saving techniques; deciduous trees will block the hot summer sun but allow the winter sun to reach the house. In some areas, planting a deciduous shade tree to the southwest or west may be desired.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the proper placement of only three trees will save the average household between $100 and $250 in annual energy costs. Be sure to account for the mature size of the tree - a common mistake is to plant too close to the house. Evergreen trees are useful as a winter windbreak; a double or staggered row of dense evergreens on the windward side of the home can save an average of 25% of energy costs, even more in windy areas. A South Dakota study found that windbreaks to the north, west, and east saved an average of 40% in fuel consumption. This technique is even more effective when smaller evergreens are included on both sides of the larger trees.
Plant your windbreak at a distance from your home equal to three to five times the height of the mature trees. Choose plant material that is appropriate for your region. To the south of your home, shade trees with high spreading crowns like oak, maple, and ash are best to block the summer sun. To the west, trees with lower crowns, or evergreens, can be used to shade the hot afternoon sun. Avoid the fast-growing trees like willow, poplar, and silver maple - these are short-lived and brittle. Smaller plants can also help reduce energy costs.
Vines are quick growing and will shade a south or west wall in one or two seasons. Vines can also be grown on a strategically placed trellis or on a pergola that covers the entire patio area. Shrubs planted near the house will help to shield from the cold wind of winter and the hot sun of summer. In very damp climates, however, keep plantings at a sufficient distance from the house to ensure adequate air circulation.
Groupings of shrubs can be used to "funnel" cool, nighttime breezes to open windows. If the incoming air is from low vents or screened windows and the outgoing air leaves the structure at a higher point, this "chimney effect" moves a lot of air and does an excellent cooling job. If you're in an area that cools off in the evening, give this a try. When designing your new landscape, or adding to an existing one, keep in mind that each region and each site has unique characteristics that must be considered to maximize energy efficiency. Study these characteristics in all seasons. For advice specific to your region, you might find some help at your County Extension Office.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
88317 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
69904 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
69569 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
48249 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
28994 Views
Latest Articles
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Exploring Crowdfunding as an Innovative Approach to Real Estate Investment
The landscape of property selling has been transformed significantly due to the advent of property crowdfunding. This innovative approach,...
on Jan 10, 2024
The Rise of Co-Living Spaces in Asian Cities
Asia, home to 21 of the worlds 30 largest cities, is a significant player in the global economy, contributing 38% of the goods and services of the...
on Jan 5, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 115
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 112
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Tips for Hiring a Concrete Contractor for Your Driveway
Having the right tools for the job by having some knowledge about your project and questions will go along way when trying to find the right...
Save Money on Air Conditioning Repairs
There is nothing like coming inside after a day out in the hot summer sun and being able to relax and cool off in an air-conditioned house. ...
Major Points to Consider While Investing in Real Estate
Investment in real estate is undoubtedly one of the diligent ones wherein you appreciate your asset worth with time. Be it for personal stay or...
3 Things to do after a Heavy Wind Storm
When natural disasters occur, they cause a lot of damages to properties, and if care is not taken, it could lead to loss of lives. However, the...
Step by Step Guide on How to Use a Motorized Tiller
There are a lot of people out there who have purchased a tiller recently and are finding it quite challenging to use the machine. Well, unlike the...