Trellises can shade windows, walls and outdoor-living areas. They also can shade air conditioners, heat pumps and evaporative coolers, so the equipment works better and uses less electricity. Large trellises, supported by posts, can cover a patio or provide shade for several windows. Smaller, wall-mounted trellises may shade only one window. Fast growing vines create shade quickly, while trees can take years to provide useful shade.
Deciduous vines lose their leaves in winter allowing the sun's heat to strike the building.
Trellises and climbing plants are attractive and can be used in many situations. Awnings Awnings work like the visors on baseball caps by blocking high-angle sunlight. On buildings, awnings can cover individual windows or sections of outside walls. Although they block unwanted solar energy in summer, awnings allow low-angle sun to reach the building in winter when it is useful. They are most effective on the south side of the building.