Can a Fence Increase Energy Efficiency for Your Home?

Energy efficiency is quite a buzzword these days, with greater efficiency and energy savings being sought in everything from lightbulbs to lawnmowers. What most homeowners don’t realize, however, is that their fence could already be quietly working to reduce their energy bills. While you might think of fences purely as security or privacy features, they can actually play a surprising role in your home’s overall energy efficiency.

At Fence Masters, our more than four decades of experience in the fence industry have shown us the impact a quality fence can have on a home. Let’s explore more of how a fence can impact your home’s energy efficiency.

Energy Benefits of Fences: Their Role as Windbreaks

Wind can be one of your heating system’s worst enemies during cold Chicago winters. When harsh winds hit your home directly, they strip away the warm air surrounding your house, often forcing your heating system to work overtime.

A strategically placed fence creates an effective windbreak that:

• Reduces wind speed around your property
• Maintains a warmer microclimate near your home
• Prevents cold air from penetrating around windows and doors as easily
• Decreases the wind chill effect on exterior walls

Fences aren’t just helpful as windbreaks in winter, however. Summer winds can carry dust, debris, and excessive heat to your home, increasing cooling costs. A well-placed windbreak fence can help reduce the impact of hot summer winds by:  

• Lowering wind speeds around your home to reduce the possibility of heat gain  
• Creating a cooler microclimate, making outdoor spaces more comfortable    

An important consideration in ensuring a fence can serve effectively as a windbreak is its placement. A fence that is positioned perpendicular to common wind patterns will be able to block frequent wind as a result.

Maximize Your Energy Savings with Professional Installation

When it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency with a fence, the effectiveness of your fence often depends heavily on proper installation. Factors like local wind patterns, sun angles, and your home’s orientation all influence the optimal fence design.

Professional installation ensures:

• Correct positioning for long-term durability and maximum energy benefits
• Proper anchoring to withstand the Chicago area’s intense weather
• Strategic height and spacing for optimal airflow control
• Integration with existing landscaping for enhanced effectiveness

With professional guidance, a fence can serve as both a security measure and a sustainable energy solution.

Could a Fence Be the Key to Your Home’s Energy Efficiency?

Your fence can be more than just a boundary marker for your property; it has the potential to be an active contributor to your home’s energy efficiency. From reducing winter heating costs to providing summer cooling relief, the right fence installation can deliver benefits season after season.

Wondering if a fence is the right option for improving your property while possibly reducing your utility bills? Contact Fence Masters today to learn more. As the largest fence contractor in the Midwest with over 40 years of experience, our team is here to help you design a fencing solution that can help you enhance both your home’s security and its energy performance.