Design Landscaping to Provide Shading in High Solar Regions

Trees planted near a home along the southern and western exposure provide shading when most needed during the day. Deciduous trees, such as maple or oak, should be used so that winter sun can reach the building. With appropriate planning, trees can also serve as a wind break to minimize the effects of wind-driven rain. Trees should be planted far enough away from a house to prevent possible damage from limbs or roots, as well as clogging gutters. (And in fact, trees deserve consideration as a natural hazard in high wind areas. see Chapter 9). Bear in mind that the greatest amount of solar radiation is generally received between 9 AM and 3 PM. However, shading of only the late day sun (i.e., after 3 PM) is often a preferred and more practical solution for many sites.