The most effective ways to block heat from entering home are insulation, reflective barriers and shading. Insulating is essential to keeping home warm in cold climates, but they also help keep home cool in hot weather. The attics of most homes absorb heat through the roof, and insulating the attic floor will keep this heat from radiating down into the house. The method for reflecting incoming heat is to install a radiant barrier. Landscaping like trees, vines and shrubs can be used to shade home and reduce energy bills. Just three trees, properly placed around the house, can save an average household energy costs annually. To be most effective, trees should be strategically located on the south and west sides of home. Deciduous trees are best, because they shade in summer and allow light and radiant heat to pass through in the winter.

Types of tree around house to keep it cool

Vines provide shading and cooling and are quick to grow. Trellises should be placed on the hottest side of the house and blocked out at least 6" from the wall to protect the wall and provide a barrier of cool air. Certain vines, such as deciduous clematis and wisteria, grow well in containers where open ground is unavailable. Ask local nursery which vines are best suited to your climate and needs.

Tips and methods

Drapes and curtains made of light-coloured fabrics reflect much of the sun's rays and help reduce heat gain. The tighter the curtain is to the wall, the better it will reduce heat gain. Two-layered drapes are most effective for both summer cooling and winter heating. Blinds, although not as effective as drapes. It can be adjusted to let in some light while reflecting the bulk of the sun's heat. The more reflective side of the blinds should face outward. Exterior shade screens is also called sunscreens, shade cloths or solar shields, prevent sun from entering a window. These can be installed on windows exposed to direct sunlight. Shade screens are lightweight, durable and easy to install. Unlike insect screens, shade screens are specially made to block between 50 and 90 percent of the energy striking the outside of the window. shading coefficient describes the amount of heat that penetrates the screen, lower numbers mean less energy gets through.

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