Windbreaks and Sound Barriers

A grouping of strategically placed trees and shrubs can not only add privacy and beauty to your property but can help cut down on noise and save on energy costs. Below is an article by Jim Simpson from the US Department of Agriculture that helps define windbreaks. A link below will show you trees we have in stock recommended for windbreaks.

A Google search for windbreaks will bring up numerous sources of information on this topic.

Let Mother Nature Help You Save 30% on Your Energy Bill
Jim Simpson 
US Department of Agriculture

Did you know that a few well-placed shade trees can cut air-conditioning bills by up to 30% in summer here in Virginia? Or that evergreens can save up to 10% of your winter heating bill just by blocking the Virginia winter wind?
These centuries-old tricks haven't been used much in recent years -- but as fuel gets more expensive, planting trees is an easy and pleasant way to save money. Bonus: Large trees also can increase the value of your home by as much as 5%. 

Trees must be selected and positioned properly. A poorly placed tree actually can increase your energy bills and damage your home.

SLASH COOLING BILLS

Plant deciduous trees in Virginia -- which shed their leaves in the fall. Their shade will shield your home from summer sun and permit winter sunshine to pour in your windows.
Trees planted on the west side of a home will block late-day sun, resulting in the greatest energy savings. Shade west-facing windows -- they allow more heat to enter your house than the walls. 
Best trees: Oak, maple, hickory. Trees grow at different rates. Consult a local nursery for other choices.

Position trees about 15 feet from the house. Any closer, and tree roots and branches could damage the house or choke the gutters with leaves.

If you live in a location in Virginia where the air conditioner is used less than the heater, shade trees can be a money loser. Even after trees shed their leaves in the fall, their bare limbs still reduce sunlight by about 30%. That can increase winter heating bills by up to 5%. In cooler climates, those increased heating costs will outweigh summer cooling savings.

CUT HEATING BILLS

Evergreen trees generally are more effective windbreaks than solid walls of similar size. The trees' irregular shapes and textures prevent the wind from flowing over them.

Plant trees to block the prevailing winds, usually from the north or northwest. If you're not certain which way the wind blows, monitor the wind for one winter before planting.

Select types of evergreens that will grow at least as high as your home and have limbs that start low to the ground.

Best: Fir, spruce, pine, hemlock, cedar.

A row of three to five evergreens positioned perpendicular to the wind should provide an effective windbreak. More might be needed for larger homes. 

Don't block the winter sun. If the prevailing winds are from the east, west or south, plant at a distance of at least one or two times the height of the mature tree away from your home, assuming your yard size permits. That allows the low winter sun to warm your house while still acting as a windbreak. If you plant closer, you risk increasing your heating bill by blocking the winter sun. On the north side of the home, plant at least 15 feet from the structure.