Low-Maintenance Exterior for Arizona Living

Arizona is home to beautiful, diverse landscapes and a hot desert climate. When building a custom home here, it is important to consider the unique challenges that come with that type of climate, such as extreme heat, dust, monsoon storms, intense UV exposure, etc.

1: Materials Built for Heat and Sun

Having the right materials and details can reduce the long-term wear. Smart materials to use for the exterior are stucco, adobe, stone, and concrete. Roofing material is also an important decision. Using steel or aluminum for roofing can be helpful in resisting cracking. Also, clay and concrete tiles are effective options to hold up in monsoon winds.

Well-designed drainage systems, shaded entryways and patios, deep overhangs, and more play a crucial role in prolonging the life of your exterior. Durability and protection are key components to focus on when building in Arizona. By combining climate-appropriate materials with intentional building techniques, you build an exterior that not only withstands the elements but continues to look refined for years to come.

2: Landscaping

When it comes to planning the landscaping in Arizona, it is important to remember that simplicity is essential. There is a wide variety of native desert plants, drought-tolerant trees, and shrubs that, when incorporated with decorative gravel, can beautify the outdoor environment while keeping the upkeep and water bills to a minimum. Saguaro cacti are a great way to make sure that the natural beauty of the landscape is preserved. This is a protected plant and takes 1000 years to grow, and is a staple of the beauty of Arizona.

3: Energy Saving and Protection

By incorporating exterior shade structures such as covered patios or extended rooflines, you can improve comfort with low energy consumption. Also, making thoughtful choices like using UV protection or triple-pane windows, light reflective roofing materials, solar panels, or thermal barriers can save energy and reduce strain on HVAC systems. It is also good practice to make sure that you schedule HVAC maintenance before the peak summer season.

By having a well-thought-out plan for how to keep your exterior low maintenance before you start building, you can make easier decisions that will help the longevity of your home while still making sure your aesthetic shines through.

If you want to explore these options more and start building your dream home, contact us today at requests@broadwaterconstruction.com or (520) 222-6922