411homerepair.com

Control Your Energy Costs By Creating Shade (ARA)

by Guest Post on May 5, 2012

Winter is here and with rising fuel costs, the U.S. Department of Energy is already warning that heating bills will be higher this year. Want to cushion the blow to your wallet? There are some things you can do to make your home more energy efficient before winter arrives.

  • Get a furnace check-up and replace the filter once a month during the heating season. Keeping your system in peak operating condition means it doesn’t have to work as hard.
  • Weatherize your doors and windows. A $50 purchase of caulk, weather stripping, and plastic film can cut heating costs by two to three times that much.
  • Plant trees that will provide your home with shade in the summer and shelter from harsh winds in winter. Correctly placed shade trees, windbreaks, and foundation plantings can reduce heating and cooling costs by an estimated 25 to 30 percent, with some estimates as high as 50 percent.
  • Install solar shades on your doors and windows. Available as interior or exterior window coverings, they act as a shade tree in front of your house, allowing some light through, but keeping UV rays, which can cause fading of flooring and artwork out.

According to a study prepared for the U.S. Department of Energy by the Midwest Research Institute, a home with windows protected will require 50 percent less energy to keep cool than an unprotected home. In Northern and Midwestern states, where the sun is low in the sky, they offer the bonus of cutting down on glare.

“Not only are solar shades practical, but they are also pleasing from an aesthetic standpoint as well,” says Todd Westover, general manager of Awnings By Design in Scottsdale, Ariz. “If you install exterior shades, the hardware can be painted to match your house’s paint color. The fabric on the actual shades we offer is available in dozens of colors.”

Westover’s company is part of a network of distributors for, an industry leader in retractable awnings and solar screens. These custom-made, professionally installed solar shading systems incorporate specially designed PVC-coated fiberglass and polyester fabrics that can withstand the long-term effects of the sun. The fabric will not harden, crack or peel; it blocks the effects of moisture and mildew and resists excessive fading.

The average American household spends $1,900 annually on energy bills, and almost half of that energy goes towards heating and cooling costs. Taking steps now to make your home more energy efficient will pay huge dividends in the long run.

Latest Articles

Innovative Materials in Modern Rainscreen Systems

In today's world of architectural advancements, the materials we use to protect and adorn our structures have evolved dramatically. Within this...

on Aug 25, 2023

Benefits of Aluminum Windows for Homeowners

Aluminum windows have emerged as a popular choice among Australian homeowners, offering a compelling combination of energy efficiency and modern...

on Aug 10, 2023

Investment Tactics for Premium Condominiums

Singapore continues to be a magnet for property investments, with its robust economy, political stability, and appealing real estate market acting...

on Aug 3, 2023

10 Essential Questions to Ask During a Sunroom and Lanai Consultation

When considering the addition of a sunroom or lanai to your home, a consultation with a professional lanai contractor is crucial. This initial...

on Jul 24, 2023

Creating Beautiful and Low-Maintenance Coastal Landscapes in Tropical Areas

Living on the coast in tropical areas offers homeowners the opportunity to enjoy stunning ocean views and a unique coastal lifestyle. To make the...

on Jul 7, 2023

Sponsored Articles

Actions

More DIY Articles

The Most Common Repairs of Tiny House Living

Tiny house living isn’t always as relaxing and stress-free as it is made out to be. There will undoubtedly be things that break,...

Cleaning / Maintenance

Enjoying the Convenience of French Door Refrigerators

French door refrigerators are an exciting option for convenience in modern kitchens. They provide easy access to the foods families use most, and...

Appliance / Repair

Should I Add-On to My Existing Home or Buy a New One?

As families grow, space becomes more important in a lot of situations. The most common response by a homeowner would be to consider putting in...

Improvements / Remodeling

Types of Kitchen Sinks

One of the most essential elements that have to be taken into consideration when remodeling or building a kitchen is the kitchen sink. A sink can...

Kitchen / Bathrooms

How to Avoid Problems with Your Boiler

You do not realize how much you rely on your boiler until it breaks down. Over the winter your boiler will probably have to face excessive use and...

HVAC / Air Conditioning

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2023