How Winter Weather in Northwest Indiana Affects Your Home’s Siding

Jan 23

3 min read

Winter in Northwest Indiana brings freezing temperatures, often well below zero, heavy snow, ice, and biting winds. While the season creates beautiful snowy landscapes in the area, it can also have a significant impact on your home’s siding, which is taking the brunt of the winter weather. Cracks and damage can lead to additional, sometimes serious trouble underneath and also effect your home’s ability to stay warm, impacting your wallet.

Understanding the effects this kind of weather can have one homes helps homeowners take proactive measures to protect their properties and maintain the siding’s integrity.

Depending on materials, quality of installation, and maintenance, and of course where you live, the lifespan of siding on a house can last from 20 to over 100 years. Obviously, the longer lasting, the more expensive.

A house with siding in Northwest Indiana during winter

Here’s exactly how the harsh winter weather can affect your home’s siding:

1. Freeze-Thaw Cycle Damage

Northwest Indiana often experiences fluctuating winter temperatures that can jump between -40 to 40 above. This leads to freeze-thaw cycles, where water enters small cracks or gaps in your siding and freezes. And it may not just be one crack, but several. When the water freezes, it expands, causing these cracks to widen over time. This can result in significant damage, especially to older or less durable siding materials.

Solution: Regularly inspect your siding for cracks or gaps and seal them before winter arrives. Consider upgrading to materials like fiber cement or vinyl siding, which are more resistant to freeze-thaw damage when weather allows.

2. Moisture Accumulation and Mold Growth

Heavy snowfalls and melting ice can lead to moisture accumulation around your home’s exterior. If your siding isn’t properly sealed, water can seep underneath to the wood structure leading to rot, mold, and mildew growth. These issues not only compromise the siding’s appearance but can also harm your home’s structural integrity as they are serious issues.

Solution: While it’s always a good idea to clean gutters in the fall, doing so can ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to direct water away from your siding.

3. Wind Damage

Winter storms in the Northwest Indiana region can bring strong winds that may loosen or even rip off sections of your home’s siding. Wind-driven debris can also cause dents, scratches, or holes in the siding that mat require repair.

Solution: Inspect your siding for loose or damaged panels and repair them promptly. Before winter, secure any loose siding panels and trim nearby trees to reduce the risk of windblown debris. Opt for durable materials like engineered wood or impact-resistant vinyl for better protection.

4. Ice Dams and Siding Strain

Ice dams form when heat from your home melts snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves. As ice dams grow, they can force water to back up under the roof and into the walls, potentially damaging your siding from the inside out.

Solution: Hire an expert to check that there is proper attic insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams. If you notice ice buildup on the roof or gutters, address it promptly to minimize water damage.

5. Color Fading and Brittle Siding

Extended exposure to cold temperatures and UV rays during sunny winter days can cause certain types of siding to become brittle or fade over time. This is especially common with lower-quality vinyl siding.

Solution: Invest in high-quality siding with UV protection and cold-weather durability. Routine maintenance can also extend the life and appearance of your siding. Ask an expert to offer advice on the best products and materials.

How to Prepare Your Siding for Winter

Inspect and Repair: Conduct a thorough inspection of your siding before the first snowfall. Address any cracks, loose panels, or signs of wear.
Clean: Remove dirt, mold, and mildew to prevent staining or damage during the winter months.
Seal: Apply caulk to gaps around windows, doors, and other entry points to keep moisture out.
Upgrade if Needed: If your siding is outdated or showing signs of significant wear, consider replacing it with a more weather-resistant option that will save you money and headaches over the winter.

Trust the Experts

At One Source Construction, we understand the unique challenges that Northwest Indiana winters bring. Our team specializes in installing and maintaining siding designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Whether you need repairs, inspections, or a complete siding replacement, we’re here to help.