Easy Ideas for Energy Efficient Landscaping

A pretty backyard can only go so far. Many experts have proven that energy efficient landscaping that takes into consideration energy needs, may well save a family more then 30% of their usual heat or cooling costs - either in the winter or summer. These savings could tangibly translate to almost $250 worth of savings in a year.

Of course we would all like to save on our energy costs but how can we do this?  There are several innovative ideas to look into when relandscaping your yard.

Keep the Sun Out

You may live in the southern most part of the country where summer days are long, hot and very dry.  On the other hand, you may live in the north where the winters are long, very cold and brutal and the days are short.  The type of landscape you have surrounding your home can make a huge difference.  You may need large shade trees to protect your home's walls from the sun's rays or you may want the sun to warm your home for as much of the day as possible.

Usually, the best way to keep the sun out is to design shade landscaping. Plant deciduous, dense, and broad trees to the south or west of the house, where their foliage can provide shade against the rays of the hot summer sun. Keeping the sun out can reduce temperatures to up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

You will also want the warm rays of the sun to heat the hardscape surrounding your home this will also increase the heat levels inside the home.

Adding Protection from the Wind

Wind chill can also cause your home to be cooler.  A cold winter wind blowing through your home can quickly drop the inside temperature by as much as 10%.

There are several types evergreens and other trees as well, that can act as excellent wind breaks.  A sturdy fence, sturdily set in place, can also help stop the wind.

Keeping Your Home Cool or Warm

One of the primary culprits in the wasting of energy is the heat or cool that escapes through the home's roof, windows and doors. It is imperative to find a way to keep heat or cool air inside the home.

Another way to help is through your energy effecient landscaping with thick shrubbery close to the home creating a natural barrier.  This barrier should be close but leave a small space between the walls and the plants creating a dead air barrier.  By communicating with your landscape architect your intentions he will know the best distance between home and shrubbery for this dead air barrier to be the most effective.

A properly maintained and landscaped home cannot only be attractive but practical.  You will saving hundreds of dollars each year by making energy efficient landscaping a priority.

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