There are many factors to consider when searching for a home — from the square footage and number of bedrooms to the location and overall style. But one factor that is often overlooked: the orientation of the house. And believe it or not, the orientation can have a significant impact on everything, from energy efficiency to the amount of natural light that fills your space.
So is it better to have a north-facing or south-facing house? Here in Colorado, the north-facing vs. south-facing house debate is even more prominent, as we are prone to both heavy snowfalls and intense direct sunlight. Just take a morning stroll down a street running east to west and you’ll quickly see the difference between the houses on your left and those on your right.
Some (including @dudedad) claim south-facing is better for a quicker snow melt and direct sunlight, while others prefer north-facing for sunnier backyards and better mountain views. Instead of settling the debate, we’ll leave it up to you to decide!
South-Facing Houses in Colorado
There are numerous benefits to having a south-facing home in Colorado, particularly when it comes to dealing with the colder months. Light and heat from the sun are essential in melting snow, and a south-facing home is perfectly positioned to take advantage of this natural resource. As a result, homeowners with south-facing homes will typically find that their driveways and front yard pathways are cleared of snow and ice more quickly and efficiently, making it easier and safer to navigate around their property during the winter months. South-facing homes also tend to have better solar access for solar panels and passive solar heating, which can significantly reduce energy costs and have a positive impact on the environment.
South-facing homes in Colorado also tend to have more natural light streaming into their front-facing windows. This means that the interior of the home will be brighter and more welcoming during the day, which can have a positive impact on mood and productivity. Not to mention, the sun can naturally provide heat, reducing the need for running the heater during some of the transitional months.
The backyard of a south-facing home is also likely to have more shade during the summer months, which can be an excellent advantage for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, as it provides a respite from the intense heat and glare of the sun. However, it is important to note that choosing plants for the backyard will take some planning, as many require direct sunlight to thrive. Gardeners may need to choose hardier plants that can withstand less sunlight to ensure a successful garden. And during the cooler months, you may want to spend a little less time there, as shade can significantly decrease the temperature.
North-Facing Houses in Colorado
While south-facing homes may be the more popular choice in Colorado, there are also benefits to having a north-facing home. One advantage is the reduced sun exposure during the warmer months, which can help keep the home cooler overall. And depending on the location, north-facing homes may offer better views of the mountains, which can be a desirable feature here in Colorado no matter what time of the year it is.
The backyard is often sunnier in north-facing homes, providing a pleasant place to spend time for much of the year, whether you are sipping coffee, dining, lounging or playing catch. It also creates ideal conditions for sun-loving plants, flowers and vegetable gardens. But keep in mind if you have a deck in the backyard, it may require more maintenance over time, such as applying stain more frequently, due to the increased exposure to sunlight.
And as mentioned, in the front, you’ll have slower snow and ice melt during the winter for north-facing homes. But during the warmer months, you can enjoy a greener lawn and a well-shaded yard and porch, providing a great place to sit and relax or watch your kids play on the driveway.
Which is Best?
Ultimately, the decision between a south-facing or north-facing house in Colorado will depend on a variety of factors, including personal preferences, the specific location and climate, and the features and layout of the home. In general, if you want to spend the majority of your time in the backyard, lounging and gardening, and don’t care about clear driveways in the winter, a north-facing home might be for you! But if you don’t want to deal with snow buildup and prefer a shady backyard during the hotter months and sunny front-facing rooms, you might opt for a south-facing home instead.
To help you navigate these questions — and others related to your home search — it’s best to consult with a real estate agent! And if you’re searching in Northern Colorado, we are here to help.
The Group has been the top-producing real estate company in Northern Colorado since 1976. Our Realtors are more than qualified to answer any of your questions related to buying and selling in Northern Colorado, including which orientation is best for your particular situation. Contact us to get connected with one of our agents or other real estate professionals!
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