The most effective way to shade the home's east and west windows and walls is to plant tall trees or plant vines on horizontal trellises. Be sure to use deciduous trees and vines because their leaves provide shade in summer, but they drop them in winter when the solar gain is appreciated. Awnings wider than the windows can provide shade, but even they are ineffective when the sun is very low in the sky and can enter the home right under the awnings. To further protect the home, whenever possible, locate porches and garages on east and west walls for additional shading. Also, shade large areas that can either reflect or retain and reradiate heat into the home like concrete patios and driveways.
Most homes have roof overhangs that sufficiently shade the windows.
They look perfectly clear, yet block out a large percentage of unwanted solar radiation. As you move closer to the home, measures tend to become less effective and more expensive to install. Inside the home, solar gain through windows can be reduced by installing drapes with light-colored linings or blinds that can reflect sunlight. Also, choosing lighter colors for roofs and walls to reflect sunlight will reduce heat gain.