During the summer, solar heat gain can be reduced by proper site selection. The house design and construction also play a major role in reducing heat gain during the summer. Shield your home from chilling north winter winds. Properly located trees can serve as windbreaks to the north and west sides of the house. This is important if the site is in an open, rural area or on a hilltop.
Evergreens are especially effective as windbreaks.
Fences and neighboring houses can also provide some protection from winter winds. Trees can provide useful shade in the summer if properly located. Large deciduous trees, close to the east, south and west sides of a house provide shade for windows, roof and walls. In the winter, these trees drop their leaves to allow solar heat gain in the house. This places the sides on the north and south and gives the house maximum southern exposure which is a benefit in the winter.