Save Money on Energy Bills with Landscaping

Are you looking to do some landscaping at your house? New trees, bushes, and flowers? Consider how landscaping can help to increase your home’s efficiency and decrease your cooling costs this summer. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, temperatures in a tree-shaded area can be 6 degrees cooler, and up to 50% of your cooling costs can be cut with proper landscaping.   The Department of Energy offers the following tips for shading your home:

-Since Michigan is considered to be in a “COOL” climate zone, it is recommended that trees be planted on the south and west sides of the house to be shaded from the sun in the summer.

-A 6-8 foot tall tree will begin shading your window within the first year, and in 5-10 years, it will shade the roof of your home.

-Deciduous trees can shade your home in the summer and let in sunlight in the winter.

-Deciduous trees can block 70-90% of the sun from entering your home during the summer months

If you are looking for ways to save money- planting some strategically placed trees can help. Keep these tips in mind when thinking about the landscape plan for your home. For more information about keeping your home cool this summer, contact FLAME!