How Climate Affects Your Home: From Cold Snaps to Heat Waves

Most people are sensitive to changes in the weather. In fact, you probably talk about the weather with family, close friends, acquaintances and even strangers. You watch and listen to forecasts and choose your attire based on weather reports. While you may spend a lot of time thinking about how the weather will affect you, you may rarely think of how the weather and the climate affect your home. However, understanding how climate affects housing is crucial for maintaining your home’s integrity.

What happens to your home when temperatures change? Can colder weather affect your home's framing, foundation or other structural elements? And how does climate affect houses? Read on to find out.

Cold weather climates: Brrrr-acing for impact

When Jack Frost comes knocking, a house in cold climate regions faces some chilly challenges:

Frozen door locks

Nothing kills the mood faster than being locked out of your own home. One of the main problems is with the lock mechanism itself. Moisture from rain or snow sneaks into keyholes, freezes, and suddenly you're left out in the cold. 

If you suspect ice is the cause of your sticking door lock, try carefully thawing it. One method is to heat your key before inserting it, or keep a commercial lock de-icer handy. And if your key is still not cooperating, consider a rekey service. 

HVAC hijinks

Those in-between seasons can leave you playing thermostat roulette. One day it's shorts weather, the next you're bundled up like a burrito. A smart or programmable thermostat can take the guesswork out of keeping comfy and save you some cash, keeping your home’s AC consistently set to a reasonable temperature. 

Frozen pipes

The silent home wrecker of winter. When temperatures plummet, your pipes could throw a tantrum and burst. This is a common issue for a house in cold climate regions where freezing temperatures are the norm. Take precautions as soon as a freeze warning is issued. Unhook any exterior water hoses, cover outdoor spigots with insulated sleeves, and never let your home’s temp dip below 56°F. Your plumbing (and wallet) will thank you.

Hot weather: When your home needs a cold one

So, what about a house in a warm climate region? Let's break a sweat over these issues:

Roof deterioration

Your roof takes a beating under the scorching sun. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause shingles to wrap, crack, or lose their protective granules. To combat this, keep your attic well-ventilated to reduce heat buildup and extend the life of your roof.  

Foundation frustration 

Dry, hot weather can make the soil around your foundation shrink faster than your favorite shirt in the dryer. This soil shrinkage can lead to foundation cracks and structural instability. To prevent this, regularly water the ground near your foundation to maintain soil moisture levels and keep it from cracking up (literally). Knowing how climate affects your home’s foundation can save you from costly repairs down the road.

AC overdrive

During peak heat, your AC works overtime. Excessive use can strain your cooling system, leading to potential breakdowns. Regular tune-ups and maintenance checks are essential to keep your AC running efficiently and smoothly when you need it most.

Wet weather: When it's raining cats and dogs (and home repair bills)

For homes in perpetually wet regions, the impact of climate is undeniable. How climate affects the type of house you live in becomes evident as you tackle water damage and mold issues head-on. 

Water damage and mold

Moisture is the uninvited house guest that never leaves, seeping into the home and leading to mold and structural issues. Knowing how climate affects your home’s susceptibility to moisture is key to preventing long-term damage. Ensure your home is sealed tight and invest in dehumidifiers to help keep the excess moisture and mold at bay, and help keep your home repair bills away. 

Basement blues

Nothing ruins a finished basement faster than unwanted indoor pools. Install sump pumps and waterproof like your home's lower level depends on it to prevent basement floods (because it does). Keeping your basement dry helps avoid costly repairs and protects your home from water-related issues. 

Dry weather: Essential home care for arid air

In arid climates, the effects of dry weather on your home are impossible to ignore. How climate affects the type of house you live in is clear as you manage soil shrinkage and fire hazards, ensuring your home remains safe and stable.

Soil shrinkage

As soil dries out, it can cause foundation problems. Keep the soil around your foundation moist by watering regularly to prevent shrinkage and cracking. This simple step can protect your home’s structure from long-term damage and costly repairs.

Fire hazards

In dry areas, the risk of wildfires is no joke. Create a buffer zone for your home by clearing any loose brush and debris from your yard. This precaution reduces the risks of fires spreading across your property and helps safeguard your home. 

Be Climate-Smart, Be Warranty

No matter how climate affects housing in your neck of the woods, one thing’s for sure—your home could use a sidekick. That's where a home warranty comes in handy. 

With American Home Shield, you can face any forecast with a smile. From plumbing issues to your AC, we've got you covered. So next time the weather outside is frightful, you can stay delightful.

Don't let climate change rain on your parade. Address it head-on with smart home maintenance and a home warranty. Remember, when it comes to how climate affects the type of house you live in, it's better to be prepared.

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.