Creative Ways to a Cool House

Shady Vegetation

• One of nature's best protections from the sun's hot rays is an umbrella or wall of vegetation. Trees create a canopy that blocks the sun during the months when shade is needed most. Most trees grow slowly, so they are not a quick solution. Once mature, they are dependable sources of shade for your home for many years. Other vegetation also helps. Lattice covered in ivy, climbing roses or fast-growing vines blocks the sun from your house, as do tall hedges. Take note of which parts of your home are subjected to the heat of the day. In some areas, early morning to noon is the worst, but in others it is noon until approximately 5 p.m. It also depends on surrounding obstacles like buildings or mountains, explains the U.S. Department of Energy. Plant trees and grow climbing vegetation in areas where the strongest sun rays hit your home.

Awnings

• Awnings for windows were once as commonplace as shutters, and they are still a practical way to help cool your home. Whether stationary or retractable, awnings provide shade to your windows where sun usually pours through. Metal awnings are either permanently upright, or they may raise and lower. Those that lower give additional protection to windows, covering them completely to guard against damage. This is especially beneficial in areas prone to hurricanes or other high winds. Retractable awnings are usually some type of water-resistant fabric. They roll out to shade windows and retract when you want to enjoy passive solar heat in colder weather.

Whole-House Fan

• Fans may not seem to offer much help with cooling the air inside your home, but a whole-house fan is different. Usually installed in the ceiling, these fans are very powerful. They pull air through the house to a central location and direct it out through a vent in the attic. Each window in the home is opened a small amount, from several inches to 2 feet, to create a draft. The result is a cooler, thoroughly ventilated home. Whole-house fans are usually used when the temperature inside is higher than outdoors, which happens in the evening, at night and early morning, suggests "Home Energy" magazine. They are also useful during the day to bring cool air in from a shady spot outside.

Insulated Draperies

• Insulated draperies are known for keeping cold air out in winter, but they are equally effective at keeping heat out in summer. Summer window dressings are often light and airy, but lightweight curtains do nothing to prevent heat gain. Insulated drapes are the kind used in hotels for privacy. However, many styles are not as institutional in appearance, especially if you can sew them yourself or hire someone to make them for you. Decorator fabric combined with a heavy, insulating lining keeps cooler air inside and prevents a great deal of heat exchange through the glass. Draw the drapes on windows where the sun is strongest, and open them on cool nights.