Drought conditions in the Southwest are becoming increasingly more common and difficult to navigate. As you look to adapt your Southwest home to fit your area’s climate conditions, there are a few easy things you can do that will make a huge difference.
Taking steps to reduce your water consumption and conserving water is of utmost importance. Additionally, there are drought-tolerant landscaping and home design measures you can take that will be beneficial both in the short and long term.
For those who live in the Southwest region, understanding the importance of adapting and possibly even changing up your home design is essential for the future of your home and property.
Conserve Water
This is the most important part of adapting your Southwest home for drought conditions. Conserving water should be the primary focus of all residents in dry, arid climates. Small and large steps can be made to ensure you are doing your share to conserve water.
You can start with something as simple as fixing or replacing leaky pipes and using low-flow plumbing fixtures in your home. By replacing dated fixtures with low-flow or water-saving alternatives, you can save hundreds of gallons of water each year. Another way to conserve water is by selecting native and or drought-tolerant plants to your landscape.
Adapt House Design
Adapting your home design and layout is another valuable way to combat drought conditions. Selecting home design features such as roofing, siding, walls, and insulation types can ensure that the outside elements do not come in to affect your home’s climate control. Installing solar screens, reflector shields, and reflective roof materials are all great ways to make your home more energy efficient and cool.
By insulating your home from outside elements, your air conditioning unit won’t be overworked to keep a comfortable inside temperature. Replacing your current windows with heavy glass types or double/triple pane windows reduces the amount of energy required to keep your home cool during hot summer days.
For the exterior portion of your house, selecting materials such as hardy lumber, stucco, or stone can help protect your home from the sun’s harsh rays.
Landscaping
- Choose low-water plants for landscaping
- Install irrigation and landscaping features designed to capture, use and recycle rainwater
- Increase and enhance your yard’s hardscape elements such as patios, stone walls, and pathways
- Raise your backyard level paving pathways or adding retaining walls to the higher plateau
- Choose lighter colored and reflective walkways and outdoor furniture cushions
Conclusion
By making simple changes, such as selecting drought-tolerant plants for your lawn, and choosing energy efficient designs for your house and landscape, you can adapt your Southwest home and conserve water while still enjoying the beauty and charm of the Southwest.