The direction your home faces has a significant impact on the amount of sunlight it receives, which affects various aspects of your home. There are four types of exposures: Southern, Northern, Eastern, and Western, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Southern Exposure – If your home faces south, it will receive direct sunlight throughout the day. This exposure is ideal for sun lovers and gardening enthusiasts since it provides ample natural light during the day and helps reduce heating costs in winter. However, concentrated sunlight can damage your home’s siding, roofing, furniture, fabrics, and flooring. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay close attention to regular maintenance such as repainting, residing, and UV protection.
Northern Exposure – Homes that face north receive indirect sunlight, making it the perfect exposure for people who dislike intense sunlight since the light is softer and less harsh. Additionally, it’s easier to keep the home cool during hot weather. However, winter snow and ice can be challenging since there is less sun to allow for quicker melting, causing significant stress on the roof. Therefore, it’s essential to keep walkways clear of snow and ice to prevent falls.
Eastern and Western Exposure – If your home faces east or west, you’ll receive more sunlight earlier or later in the day, respectively. Eastern exposure provides the most sunlight in the morning, while western exposure provides more sunlight in the afternoon. Early risers might find eastern exposure more comfortable, while those who prefer late-day sun would do better with western exposure. It’s essential to install shading to windows facing east and west to eliminate the glare and UV damage of morning or afternoon sun.
While most people don’t base their home-buying decisions solely on exposure, it’s important to consider how different exposures affect the wear and tear of your home, as well as the amount of natural light it receives. If you have questions or want to learn more about roof exposure, reach out to a trusted roofing professional.