Types of Homes to Buy in the Desert

Homes in the desert are different than in other parts of the United States. With extremely hot temperatures in the summer and sometimes cold winters, materials used in desert homes have to be well insulated to keep temperatures inside at bay.

Traditional desert homes are made with adobe – a mixture of clay, sand straw and water. The heavy walls provide a thermal mass that absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night. Modern builders have added tile or metal roofs that reflect the sun’s heat away.

Another desert home style includes Spanish Colonial, which incorporates thick walls and tile roofs. Just like adobe homes, the Spanish Colonial homes have small windows that you can open to allow the breeze in while keeping the sun out. It also has an inner courtyard and are often one story.

Modern desert homes expand on its traditional counterparts and add some modern flair and amenities. In addition to thick walls, metal and tile roofs, covered patios and courtyards, modern designers added tile, stone or concrete flooring to provide a cool surface in the summer.

No matter what style of home suits you, living in the desert has many perks that people sometimes overlook like plenty of sunshine (think vitamin D), access to active living, clean air and less population.

If you’re looking into moving to part of the U.S. where desert climate is the norm, contact one of our experts at United Country Real Estate to help you get started. Learn more or find an agent near you at www.UnitedCountry.com.

Sources:

https://www.hunker.com/13400846/different-types-of-houses-in-deserts