There are a couple of good reasons to do what you can to reduce your cooling costs during the summer months.  Reducing cooling costs with trees is a very possible reality!  It’s not only good for your bank account — it’s good for the environment.  The less time you spend running your air conditioning, the fewer fossil fuels are being burned, meaning you’re leaving a smaller carbon footprint.  Planting trees near and around your home is a great way to help reduce cooling costs.

Trees provide shade, keeping the sun’s warming rays from shining through your windows.  To make the most of shade from trees, plant on the south and west side of your home.  Choose trees that will lose their leaves in the winter, giving you the added benefit of letting the sun help warm your home during the coldest months.   The large, leafy crowns of trees which shade your roof provide a lot of relief from summer heat.

You can also help keep your home cool by planting trees and shrubs that will shade surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, and patios.  These surfaces absorb and radiate heat.  Imagine your patio gradually becoming a heater during the day, radiating warm air right up to your windows.  By shading these areas, you help reduce the heat your home is exposed to, letting you use less energy to regulate the temperature inside your home.

Take the guesswork out of planting trees to reduce cooling costs by consulting a professional.  We will be happy to evaluate your home, property, and existing landscape to offer advice on placement and species of trees to best shade your home.