Windbreaks protect a home from wind and provide shade, both of which can help conserve energy. Wind might not seem like an energy zapper. However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, wind chill, the temperature it feels like outside when it’s windy (versus the actual temperature), makes it feel colder. The wind evaporates moisture from the skin, pulling heat away from the body. Stopping or even slowing wind prevents energy loss from the human body. Windbreaks also reduce heat loss from a home because warmer people with warmer homes use less energy to heat their houses. Take a look at a few attractive ways to create a windbreak around your home.
I’ve always noticed how much cozier my backyard feels when it’s shielded from those chilly gusts. Beyond comfort, windbreaks can cut down on heating costs significantly. Studies suggest that a well-placed windbreak can reduce wind speed by up to 50%, potentially lowering heating bills by 10-20% in windy regions, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service. When planning your windbreak, consider your local wind patterns—knowing the prevailing wind direction in your area can make all the difference. For instance, I learned the hard way that planting on the wrong side of my house did little to stop the breeze! Consulting a local nursery or extension service can offer tailored advice on what works best for your climate and soil.
Tall Hedges
Hedges and bushes create attractive, natural windbreaks. Like trees, choose varieties with crowns that are lower to the ground. Stopping the wind near the ground offers more protection for people than halting it higher in the air. A mix of shrubs and bushes can create a multi-layered windbreak for extra protection. When choosing the plants, consider the maintenance needed to keep them looking attractive. Some hedges require regular trimming, while others are nearly maintenance-free.
From my own experience, I love how hedges not only block wind but also add a lush, green vibe to the yard. For example, boxwood or yew shrubs are great low-maintenance options that stay dense year-round. If you’re looking for specifics, the Arbor Day Foundation notes that a hedge planted 6 to 10 feet from your home can reduce wind impact effectively while keeping roots from interfering with your foundation. A pro tip: mix in some flowering shrubs like lilacs for a pop of color without sacrificing function. Just keep an eye on water needs—overwatering can lead to root rot, which I’ve seen ruin a neighbor’s hedge. Check your soil drainage before planting to avoid costly replacements.
Privacy Screen
Some plots might not have space to plant trees 12 to 30 feet away from the house. In these cases, privacy screens can create a windbreak, plus block the sun and views of the home. Privacy screens often are installed near patios and porches to protect entrances and gathering spaces.
I’ve seen privacy screens work wonders for small urban yards where space is tight. They’re quick to set up and can be surprisingly stylish—think bamboo panels or lattice with vines. According to a 2021 study by the University of Minnesota, privacy screens can reduce wind speed by up to 30% in compact spaces, making your patio feel less like a wind tunnel. A practical tip: choose materials like vinyl or composite for durability, especially if you’re in a coastal area where weather can be harsh. I once helped a friend install a cedar screen, and it held up beautifully while adding a warm, natural look. Just make sure to anchor them securely—strong winds can topple flimsy setups!
Fencing
A solid fence cuts down on the wind and prying eyes. Installing a fence can get expensive, however. If the wind often comes from one or two directions, it can make sense to erect a windbreak fence only on those sides of the house. Of course, a fence that surrounds the entire yard can act as a windbreak, privacy screen, and extra home security.
Fences are my go-to when you need a quick, sturdy windbreak. A solid wood or vinyl fence can block up to 80% of wind, based on research from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but costs can add up fast—expect $20-$50 per linear foot for quality materials and installation. If your budget’s tight, like mine was last year, consider just fencing the windiest side of your property. I went with a 6-foot cedar fence on the north side, and it’s been a game-changer for keeping my patio usable in winter. One thing to watch: check local zoning laws before building, as some areas have height or material restrictions that can trip you up.
A Line of Trees
The right kinds of trees create efficient windbreaks, since trees (and other types of windbreaks) can reduce the wind speed up to a distance of 30 times the windbreak’s height. The Department of Energy recommends planting trees a distance from the home measuring at least two to five times the mature height of the trees. It’s important and more efficient to block the wind close to the ground, so look for trees with low crowns like dense evergreens and combine trees with another windbreak like a fence or bushes. If you enjoy some passive solar heat from winter sun, plant trees that drop their leaves in fall closer to the home, especially on the south side.
Trees are a long-term investment, but they’re worth it for both energy savings and curb appeal. For example, planting evergreens like Norway spruce can create a windbreak that lasts decades, with the added bonus of reducing noise pollution by up to 40%, per a USDA study. I planted a row of pines a few years back, and they’ve already started shielding my home from harsh winter winds. A key tip: space trees about 6-12 feet apart to ensure they grow dense without crowding each other. Also, consider soil type—sandy soils might need more drought-tolerant species like junipers. If you’re unsure, a local arborist can recommend trees that thrive in your area and save you from costly replanting.
Trellises
Trellis panels provide an aesthetically pleasing way to slow the wind. These panels combine the structure of a fence with the natural look of plants. Once the trellis is in place, add climbing plants like morning glory, Nasturtium, or black-eyed Susan to fill the trellis. A trellis windbreak isn’t an instantaneous solution, but it creates a beautiful way to slow the wind and add privacy at the same time.
I’m a big fan of trellises because they’re so versatile—you get the structure of a fence but with the charm of a garden. A 2020 gardening survey by the National Gardening Association found that trellises with fast-growing vines like clematis can reduce wind by about 25% once fully established, which usually takes a season or two. I put up a trellis with morning glories last summer, and by fall, it was both a wind buffer and a gorgeous backdrop for my deck. One trick: use sturdy materials like metal or treated wood to avoid warping, and check that your climbing plants are suited to your climate—some, like wisteria, can get invasive if you’re not careful!
