Keep Your Home Cool with Landscaping

“On average, a well-designed landscape saves enough energy to pay for itself in less than 8 years” (The US Department of Energy)

It’s true.  Adjusting your thermostat is not the only way to save on cooling this summer.  Here are some tips about using the power of shade to keep your home cool:

• Plant a 6-8 foot deciduous tree, one whose leaves fall off during the winter, near your home, and it will begin to shade the windows in the first year.  In 5-10 years, it will offer even greater savings as it begins to shade the roof.
• Trees should be planted to the south of the home for the best shade and to still let breezes in.
• Bushes, shrubs, and climbing vines can be used to shade outdoor patio areas.
• (Information from Energy 101 Infographic: Landscaping, The U.S. Department of Energy)

For more information, check out the entire infographic, or if you would like to learn more about keeping your home cool in an efficient manner this summer, contact FLAME!