Summer’s coming and that means only one thing – you’re going to need to find a good way to protect yourself from the heat. Wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated is easy, but there is much more you should do as the temperatures start going up.
You should, by all means, protect your home too. Excessive heat doesn’t just make day-to-day life unbearable, but it also drives up your energy bills. However, there are several things you can do to ensure that your home is well-protected from the heat all summer long.
Install Energy-Efficient Windows
Starting off strong, the first thing you can do to prepare your home for the summer is install energy-efficient windows. Heat gain in home comes from various places and poorly insulated windows are the biggest issue. Single-pane windows too can cause higher heat gain.
On the other hand, windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are much better when it comes to heat protection. They help reflect infrared light while still allowing visible light to pass through. Double-glazed or triple-glazed windows with insulating gas between the panes are also great. They keep the house cooler during summer and warmer during winter due to excellent thermal insulation.
Plant Shade Trees
Landscaping isn’t just fun; it’s also a way to make your home more practical. For instance, when done strategically, landscaping can provide natural shade. That way, you can efficiently reduce the amount of heat absorbed by your home.
You can plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your house to block the sun’s intense rays. This will keep your home cool during summer, but once the leaves are gone, the sunlight will be perfectly able to penetrate inside the house during the winter. Additionally, trees and shrubs around your home will create a microclimate and further lower ambient temperatures.
Install Awnings or Overhangs
Another great idea is to install some awnings and overhangs. These are very effective architectural features for reducing solar heat gain. They can be installed anywhere – above windows, doors, and outdoor living spaces.
They block direct sunlight and allow for natural ventilation at the same time. Furthermore, retractable awnings are even better, as they offer flexibility for you to adjust shading based on the sun’s position. Awnings made of UV resistant fabrics will further save energy and protect your home.
Use Reflective Roofing Materials
Heat enters your home from roof too. Hence, roof is another area you should tackle if you intend to lower your electricity bills this summer. Dark-coloured and poorly insulated roofs are the main suspects for high amounts of heat in the house.
For that very reason, you should consider installing reflective roofing. Materials such as metal, tile, and white-coloured shingles are great for reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. They help reflect the sunlight away from the surface and stop it from entering the attic or living spaces under it.
Use Window Treatments
Windows are, perhaps, the most important, when it comes to heat protection. Another amazing idea for your windows during summer is to get the right window treatments. They aren’t there just for the aesthetics – they also play a huge role in sunlight control.
Consider installing some gorgeous curtains or practical shades. If you want to combine beauty and functionality, quality honeycomb blinds are always a good idea. Make sure to opt for some light-coloured or reflective materials and pick treatments that can easily be adjusted throughout the day.
Utilise External Shading Devices
External shading devices are also perfect for effective protection against solar heat gain. For instance, exterior shutters, pergolas, and shade sails are all perfect heat protectors when installed properly. Make sure to place them strategically and you’ll block the sunlight from entering your home.
They’re great for one more reason. Namely, they can make your house look even better. They are all simple additions that will quickly transform your yard. You could easily create areas for relaxation and entertainment for all the seasons, not just summer.
Use Insulation
Insulation is crucial for maintaining a consistent indoor temperature during the entire year. It helps reduce heat transfer through walls, ceilings, and floors. Insulation serves as a barrier against heat flow. Thanks to this, insulation is the number one weapon in keeping your home cool during summer and warm during winter.
For best results, make sure to insulate attics, crawl spaces, as well as basement walls. This is the best way to minimize heat gain in the house. When choosing insulation materials, consider materials with high R-values. Don’t forget to upgrade insulation levels to meet local building codes and energy efficiency standards.
Seal Air Leaks
A secure way for heat to enter or leave the house is through air leaks. These can be a huge issue during the summer, but during the winter as well. The best way to decrease the heat gain in your home is to seal these air leaks.
The first step is, of course, detecting them. As soon as you inspect doors, windows, electrical outlets, and other possible gaps, you can start sealing. You’ll need weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealants to properly seal the gaps and ensure better insulation throughout the house.
Optimize Landscaping
Finally, optimizing landscaping is a good idea to minimize heat gain in your household. You already know how shade trees can help, but that isn’t all. In fact, there are plenty of other ways to bring the temperature down on your property.
For instance, you could use light-coloured materials for pathways, driveways, and outdoor surfaces. These will reflect sunlight and reduce heat. You can also incorporate hardscape elements such as gravel or mulch to create permeable surfaces. These will let rainwater infiltrate and cool the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Summer is all fun and games until the heat becomes unbearable. To make your home friendlier during this and summers to come, make sure to try at least some of these amazing tips. Soon, you’ll notice a huge difference in your home, electricity bills, and lifestyle in general!
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