Not too long ago, we spoke about crucial home management tips for colder climates, each of which can help you to stay toasty even once the worst winter chills set in. Now, though, we’re rocketing right into summer, and homeowners in notoriously hot locations are experiencing exactly the opposite issue.
Forget battening down the hatches; a home in areas like Florida requires you to open up, think on your feet, and implement top hot weather home exterior improvements like the ones we’ll be discussing here.
# 1 – Light Exterior Colors
If you live in a hot climate, there’s nothing more inviting than a cool, crisp interior. This is what gives you that ‘ahh’ moment of relief when you walk into your home, and it’s probably why you’ve implemented (or should consider) vital internal additions like AC units in each of your rooms. But have you ever considered how key external elements could also help to cool things down inside?
This is especially true when it comes to house colors, with dark black or grey shades typically attracting heat that’s quickly absorbed into your rooms. By comparison, light colors like white or beige offer a reflective surface. This simple step could mean the difference between boiling like you’re in a pot and offering the shadiest spot in town, and it simply requires you to shake up your siding with light colors in mind.
# 2 – Window Shutters
Sure, you’ve got blinds to keep the worst of the heat out, but did you know that window shutters are a far preferable option for temperature control?
Not only do these additions look picturesque, but they also have insulative, heat reflective qualities that’ll keep the sun at bay. This is especially true if you also follow the light color rule here with white or other light shutter styles. It’s also worth looking out for shutters with adjustable louvres, as they allow you to more easily control ventilation across your home.
# 3 – Solar Panels
It’s easy to worry about the sun and your home, but why not make the most of that hot climate by investing in solar panels? Even a small rooftop solar setup is going to help you gain energy independence pretty quickly in a hot location. And when that happens, you might not mind the heat half as much as you did.
Solar panels that cover large portions of your roof are also beneficial considering that they provide shade and general sun protection to the materials below. Solar panels particularly help to shield roof materials from UV rays that could otherwise cause them to become brittle or breakable.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to homeownership in a hot location or you’ve been battling against the sun for years, these home exterior improvements are sure to make a big difference. Even if your home looks and feels like something fresh from the desert right now, you can bet it’ll soon become the most refreshing (and self-sustainable) property on the whole street once you start on this list!
