When the temperature drops, homeowners naturally focus on keeping their families warm and cozy. However, cold weather can bring more than just a frosty chill and a snow-covered landscape — it can affect your home in unexpected ways, leading to costly repairs and updates.

In this guide, we explore surprising ways cold weather can impact your home and how you can protect your home and increase your comfort level.

Table of Contents

  1. Cold Temperatures are Compounded by Poor Insulation
  2. Warm Interior Spaces Entice Pests to Enter
  3. Snow Can Cause Major Roof Damage
  4. Pipes and Plumbing Can Freeze
  5. Damp Weather Worsens Indoor Air Quality
  6. The Cold Can Damage Windows
  7. Freezing Can Shift or Crack Your Foundation

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1. Cold Temperatures are Compounded by Poor Insulation

Cold weather leads to a spike in energy usage as your heating system works to keep your home warm.

Cushioned draft stopper on floor

Heaters and boilers must work overtime, leading to higher energy bills. To save money, improve your home’s insulation by sealing gaps around windows and doors. According to Energy Star, proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 15%.

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2. Warm Interior Spaces Entice Pests to Enter

When temperatures plummet, you’re not the only one seeking warmth. Pests like rodents and spiders may find your home cozy and inviting. These unwelcome guests can cause damage and create a nuisance.

Small window on gable of old house, susceptible to pests entering home

To keep them out, seal cracks and openings around your home, and store food in airtight containers. Regularly inspect your home for signs of infestation, such as droppings or gnaw marks.

 

3. Snow Can Cause Major Roof Damage

Snow and ice accumulation on your roof can lead to ice dams, which are a major cause of roof damage.

Icicles and ice dams on roof of old house in winter

Ice dams form when warm air from the attic melts the snow on the roof, and the melted snow refreezes at the roof’s edge. This causes water to back up under the shingles, leading to leaks and structural damage. Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams from forming.

Close up view of ice dams on home roof

 

4. Pipes and Plumbing Can Freeze

Frozen pipes are common during cold weather, and they can cause significant water damage if they burst.

water slowly running to prevent pipes from freezing

To prevent this, insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics. Allow faucets to drip steadily during extended periods of extreme cold to keep water flowing to reduce the risk of freezing. Also open cupboard doors under sinks to allow interior heat to warm the pipes — this is especially important if plumbing lines run within a wall having an exterior surface.

When away from your home for lengthy amounts of time, keep your home heated to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

5. Damp Weather Worsens Indoor Air Quality

Cold weather can affect indoor air quality in several ways.

Dampness from snow and ice can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Additionally, radon levels can rise in colder weather due to decreased ventilation. To combat these issues, use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels, and test radon levels using an at-home kit from the hardware store.

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6. The Cold Can Damage Windows

Cold weather can cause your windows to contract, leading to drafts and increased energy loss. Over time, contraction can lead to cracked glass or damaged seals. To prevent this, upgrade to double-glazed windows, or use window film to insulate your windows. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help identify and fix issues before they worsen.

Frozen window panes

 

7. Freezing Can Shift or Crack Your Foundation

The freeze-thaw cycle associated with cold weather can cause the soil around your home to expand and contract, leading to foundation movement. This can result in cracks or shifts that compromise your home’s structural integrity, especially if you have an older home.

Cracked foundation of home

To protect your foundation, ensure proper drainage around your home by cleaning gutters and directing downspouts away from the foundation. Additionally, monitor your basement for any signs of water infiltration.

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Closing Comments

Understanding the surprising ways cold weather can impact your home is crucial to protecting your investment. By taking proactive measures, you can mitigate potential damage and keep your home safe and cozy throughout the winter months. Prepare your home by addressing these issues now, so you can enjoy the beauty of winter without the worry of costly repairs and inconvenient setbacks.

Snowy winter scene looking out from window of a home

 

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