Why You Should Use Windbreaks In Your Landscaping


So you are wanting to get some landscaping done for your new home or business. Have you heard that landscaping can actually lower your energy bill? Well it can! Adding windbreaks to your landscaping plans can cut back your energy costs by almost 25% compared to those who don’t have windbreaks incorporated into their landscaping. Let’s take a closer look at what windbreaks are and how they can reduce your energy bill!

What Is A Windbreak?

So what is a windbreak? A windbreak is a dense tree or shrub that is strategically placed in your yard. Evergreen trees are a great example of a windbreak. The height of windbreakers is also taken into consideration. A short, small bush will not block incoming winds from hitting your house. Windbreakers should be tall, dense shrubbery or trees that allow minimal wind to access your house. Colorado blue spruce, ponderosa pine, and oriental arborvitae are some of the most common windbreaks in Colorado. However, small shrubs as well as vines are a great addition to windbreakers and can fill in the gaps that may be present closer to the ground. This will give your home added insulation through your landscaping!

How Will Windbreaks Lower My Energy Bill?

How is a dense tree or bush going to reduce your energy bill? Windbreaks can block cold winds from reaching your home. With less cold air entering your home, your home’s need for high heat will lower. This will reduce the load on your heater and will thus shrink your energy bill by a fourth of the cost!

Wind Direction

Windbreaks can also redirect wind flow if they are strategically placed. This can not only direct winds away from your house but can additionally decrease wind speeds. Reduced wind speeds can minimize the effects of wind chill in the winter time. In the summertime or in hotter climates, trees and shrubs can be used to bring cool breezes towards the home. This will lower your home’s need for air conditioning and thus can lower your energy bill!

Property Assessment

A property assessment will be a necessary first step to figuring out what windbreaks will be best for your home. Our experts will need to consider the many factors of your home to decide what plan of action will work best for your specific situation. The direction your home is facing as well as the climate zone your home resides in are factored into this decision. Your home’s soil type, topography, and the precipitation levels of your area are also taken into consideration when deciding what types of trees and shrubs should be used in your landscaping.

As we have seen, windbreaks and strategically placed trees and shrubs can help direct where and how wind gusts flow around your home. If you are looking to lower your energy bill, adding windbreaks into your landscaping is a great place to start. Our experts at Wild Irishman Tree and Landscape can analyze your property and talk to you about what landscaping and types of plants will be best for your home. Contact Wild Irishman Tree and Landscape today to start saving money on your energy bill!
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