What is a windbreak?

A windbreak is a row or group of trees, shrubs, or structural elements (e.g. fences) that are used to block and direct the wind. Vegetative windbreaks are used in agriculture to prevent wind erosion or damage to field crops. For homeowners, windbreaks can be used to block harsh winter winds around housing. By planting windbreaks, homeowners can realize a savings in heating bills. The U.S. Department of Energy has more information about Landscape Windbreaks for your home.

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Is there a specific type of tree that is good to plant for energy conservation?

Different types of trees can help to conserve energy in different ways. Deciduous trees (trees that lose all of their leaves each fall) save energy in summer by shading houses, paved areas, and air conditioners. Small deciduous trees and shrubs, especially those with low, dense branches, also can serve as effective wind barriers.

 

Large and small evergreen trees and shrubs save energy by slowing cold winds in the winter. They also provide shade, but since they often have branches …

Guide wind – Maximize summer cooling

 

Strategically positioning vegetation in landscapes can maximize energy benefits and save money for homeowners, commercial properties and public facilities. Vegetation can be placed within the landscape to manipulate air movement by

  • obstruction,
  • guidance,
  • deflection, and
  • filtration.

Use vegetation to obstruct or block undesirable winds by arranging dense plantings at a 90º angle to the prevailing winds. Vegetation barriers can be single or multiple rows of trees and shrubs. The air speed is affected by the density of vegetation, the distance

Using Landscaping Shade to Reduce Home Energy Costs

Reviewed and Revised on 10/17/2013

The correct selection and placement of trees and plants can help reduce summer heat and allow for heat gain in the winter. Shading the roof of a house can reduce the inside temperature by as much as 8-10 degrees Fahrenheit. Deciduous trees (trees which shed leaves in winter) provide summer shade. When the leaves fall, they allow the warmth of the sun to enter the home during the cold winter weather. Landscaping can also provide