Drapes and curtains with white plastic backings may reflect even more light. [2] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source Keep draperies closed during the hottest hours of the day. Typically, 10am–4pm are the hottest hours, but it depends on where you live. [3] X Research source
If you have horizontal blinds, consider painting your interior walls a light color. Horizontal slats reflect sunlight onto the ceiling and light colors diffuse that light effectively without creating a lot of heat or glare. Blinds aren’t as effective as drapery at blocking light and heat, but being able to adjust them is a nice plus. Blinds with reflective finishes on the outward-facing side are the best choice. [5] X Research source
Visit your local home improvement store and choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and weaves to complement any home décor. Opaque roller shades are the most effective option, but only when they’re fully drawn. On the downside, they block light and restrict airflow. [7] X Research source
These are great options if you don’t want to block your view with other types of window treatments.
Go with black screens for the most shade and cooling properties. The motorized screens cost a little more, but they tend to be more effective.
Exterior window shades: These shades are fabric or vinyl screens with a variety of transparency levels that can be lowered and raised by hand from the outside. Anchor the shade frames to your home’s exterior for a permanent solution, or try low-cost temporary attachments like suction cups, Velcro, or snaps. Exterior roller shutters: These interlocking aluminum or plastic slats create a protective barrier over windows and roll up neatly at the top when you’re not using them. They’re operated from indoors with a crank or remote control. Exterior hinged shutters: These shutters are usually made of wood or vinyl, and they must have the hinge to be operable and adjustable. Since they’re commonly sold as decorative elements only, make sure you buy the hinged type. [11] X Research source
Place awnings above south-facing or eastern windows for peak efficiency. If the afternoons are blazing hot, awnings above western windows are also helpful. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, attach awnings over north-facing and western windows instead. [13] X Research source Awnings must be ventilated so they don’t trap heat around windows. Make sure yours have grommets, eyelets, or some other form of ventilation. [14] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
Hedges are easy to grow and great for shading sidewalks.
Try positioning planter boxes with trailing vines around the perimeter of your home for similar results.
If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, plant on the north side rather than the south side. [19] X Research source If you plant the tree too close to your home, the tree’s root system can damage the foundation and roof. Deciduous trees will provide the most shade in 5-10 years. [20] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, the north side of your home will be affected rather than the south side. [22] X Research source
The type of insulation you use depends on your climate and home heating system. In most cases, use a minimum of R-30. If your climate has extremely cold winters, go with R-49.
A white latex coating that applies easily over common roof materials like shingles, tar paper, and metal. The coating needs to be reapplied every 5 years. An asphalt-based coating for metal or asphalt roofs. It’s long-lasting but has a tacky surface that tends to collect dust, making the surface less reflective over time. If applied correctly, reflective coatings can dramatically reduce how often you run your air conditioner. [26] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
If you need more insulation, look for the vented, multi-layer radiant barriers. They have insulating fiber-reinforced backing (rather than paper).
There are also reflective coatings you can apply to pavement to make them more reflective. If you want to go green, consider using good old grass instead of traditional pavement materials.
