Healthy mature trees create a sense of establishment and prosperity for your commercial property’s exterior. While their natural beauty undeniably enhances curb appeal and property value, trees also have energy efficiency benefits. In fact, by protecting the health of your trees, you can reap financial savings through lower energy bills throughout the year.
Shading in the Summer
In the summer when temperatures skyrocket, trees provide essential shade from intense solar rays. Solar heating peaks in midday when the sun is directly overhead, and well-placed trees minimize your building’s exposure to the rays. Often, the temperature in the shade is at least several degrees cooler than in direct sunlight. As a result, your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard to maintain a cool, comfortable climate indoors.
Blocking Winds in the Winter
In winter when the leaves have fallen, you might assume that trees add little benefit to your property, but this isn’t the case. Even leafless trees block strong northerly winds to keep your building warmer than it otherwise would be. In addition to blocking wind, bare trees will allow some sunlight to reach your building through their branches. This additional source of heat also plays a role in how hard your heating system needs to work during the coldest months of the year.
How to Protect Tree Health
The health of your trees directly affects their positive impact on energy efficiency. A routine tree inspection will help you identify issues like pests and disease that could make your trees sick. Pruning trees regularly help to prevent damage from broken branches. Never hang things from a tree’s branches or penetrate its trunk. Also, make sure your trees receive ample water, but don’t cause rot by overwatering. An arborist can provide you with specific recommendations to better care for the trees on your commercial premises.
Where to Plant New Trees
Given the many benefits of healthy trees, you might want to plant more of them. Trees need proper spacing to prevent overcrowding as they grow. In addition, you need to plant them away from structures, sidewalks, parking lots, and powerlines. To optimize energy efficiency, plant shade trees along the southern and western sides of your building. To protect against winter winds, also plant dense trees along the northern and western sides.
While trees may require less maintenance than other vegetation on your property, they need proper care to maintain their health. Contact Beyond The Leaf Tree and Shrub Experts in Pottstown, PA today for all your commercial tree service needs.
