Tips for the orientation of your home

There are many different things that one must consider when building a new home. The biggest things that someone may think of first would be securing financing, buying a lot, and even choosing a home plan. There is something else to consider, though: the orientation of the sun and wind. Think about it...you will be living in the home you build for many years. This means you will experience all of the different seasons in your home. So, it is important to think about the orientation of your home so that you can make the best of each season. These tips can help you out with this process. Ultimately, the desired orientation of your home can have a great influence on the plan you choose. Tip #1: Consider your preferences. Do you enjoy waking up to the morning sun streaming in your window? Or would you rather your bedroom be dark and the natural light to flood in the great room or kitchen? Maybe your preference is to have an outdoor living space that allows you to take advantage of the beautiful sunset each evening. Tip #2: Consider your climate and location. Generally speaking, locations further north tend to be colder. Blocking the cold northern winds is often a priority. Further south, it’s all about keeping out the heat during the summer. However, you will live in this home through all seasons (even if you do not get to experience 4 true seasons because of location) so it is important to plan for all of them. Tip #3: Consider your budget. It can be easy to get wrapped up in the excitement that comes with building the home of your dream and even easier to forget that you will eventually be paying utility bills for this home. Lots of windows allow for a lot of natural light to flood your home, but if you do not have the right windows, you may notice a change in utility costs. If you live in the south, choose windows that will allow you to block that summer heat and allow you to keep your energy bills lower. In the north, choose windows that allow you to maximize that free solar heat. This helps to lower energy bills, too! Nelson Design Group’s corporate partner, Hurd Windows and Doors, offers a wide variety of styles that will suit your specific needs. Visit their website here: http://hurd.com/. Choosing a home plan involves so many different levels of input. In the end, the home plan you choose will depend on many different factors. One of these factors could be the preference you have regarding the orientation of your home. Choose a home plan that allows you to get everything you want from your location. Then, discuss with your builder the direction that a particular home should face. Have questions or want more tips regarding choosing the home plan of your dreams? Give one our friendly and knowledgeable home plan specialists a call today! 870.931.5777