3 Ways the Cold Affects Your Home (Plus 4 More You Shouldn’t Ignore)

Why this matters in Chicagoland

Our winters bring sub-zero wind chills, sharp freeze–thaw cycles, and long dry spells. That combo can strain building materials, spike energy bills, and trigger water and mold events. Use this guide to spot red flags early and winterize smarter.

The Big 3: How Cold Weather Damages Homes

1) Stagnant, moisture-filled indoor air

Tightly sealed doors and windows trap humidity from everyday living (cooking, showers, breathing). That stale air can:

• Feed mold/mildew on windows, walls, and in bathrooms
• Leave musty odors and increase allergens
• Raise condensation on cold surfaces, leading to rot over time

Fix it:

• Run bath and kitchen exhaust fans (20–30 min after use)
• Use ceiling/floor fans on low to circulate air
• Consider a balanced ventilation solution (HRV/ERV) where appropriate

2) Dried-out interiors (and shifting materials)

Forced-air heat drops indoor humidity. Low RH (relative humidity) can cause:

• Gapping hardwoods, squeaky or heaved floors
• Cracked caulk and drywall seams
• Sticking or misaligned doors/trim

Fix it:

• Maintain indoor RH ~35–45% (adjust with a hygrometer)
• Use humidification carefully (avoid over-humidifying; it fuels condensation/mold)
• Re-caulk movement joints as needed

3) Frozen pipes (and costly bursts)

Uninsulated or poorly located lines (garages, exterior walls, crawl spaces) can freeze below 32°F. Ice expansion blocks flow; pressure spikes can burst pipes and flood interiors.

Fix it:

• Insulate exposed pipes; seal rim joists and gaps
• On extreme cold nights, open vanity doors; let faucets trickle on vulnerable lines
• Know the main water shutoff location
• If lines freeze, shut water off and call pros to thaw safely

Additional Cold-Weather Risks You Shouldn’t Ignore

4) Ice dams & roof leaks

Warm attic air melts roof snow; refreezing at the eave forms dams that back water under shingles.

Fix it: Improve attic insulation & air-sealing, keep soffit vents clear, use a roof rake after heavy snow.

5) Foundation & masonry stress (freeze–thaw)

Water in tiny cracks expands when it freezes, widening gaps, spalling brick, and letting in more moisture.

Fix it: Maintain positive grading, extend downspouts 6–10 ft, and seal small cracks before deep winter.

6) Indoor air quality (IAQ) dips

Low ventilation + more time indoors = elevated allergens, VOCs, and particulates.

Fix it: Change HVAC filters regularly, deep-clean carpets/upholstery, and increase fresh-air exchange where safe.

7) Fire risk increases

Space heaters, fireplaces, and overworked furnaces add ignition sources; creosote buildup is a hazard.

Fix it: Annual furnace & chimney inspections, keep 3-ft clearance around heaters, test smoke/CO alarms.

Quick Winter Readiness Checklist

• Replace HVAC filters (30–90 days; more often with pets/allergies)
• Set water heater to 120°F
• Weather-strip/caulk drafts; add door sweeps
• Clean gutters/downspouts to prevent ice dams
• Check attic insulation and ventilation balance
• Store hoses; shut off and drain exterior spigots
• Stage emergency kit (flashlights, batteries, blankets, water)

When to Bring in Pros (and Why Us)

Call a professional if you notice: persistent moisture/musty odors, visible mold, water staining, recurring ice dams, frozen or burst pipes, or post-fire smoke residues.

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

• Local, award-winning team serving Chicago, the North Shore, Lake County, Oak Park & River Forest
• IICRC-certified for water, fire, mold, and textile care
• 24/7 rapid response for water and fire emergencies

Call: (773) 376-1110 (Chicago & North Shore) or (847) 316-9145 (Lake County)

FAQ

Q: What indoor humidity is best in winter?
Aim for 35–45% RH to protect wood, finishes, and comfort while limiting condensation and mold.

Q: How do I know if I have an ice dam?
Look for icicles at eaves, warm-day dripping, and interior stains near exterior walls/ceilings.

Q: My pipes froze—what should I do first?
Turn off the main water, open faucets to relieve pressure, and call a pro to safely thaw and inspect.

Q: Can running a humidifier cause mold?
Yes—if over-humidified. Use a hygrometer and keep RH under ~45%, ventilate baths/kitchens.

Q: Do ceiling fans help in winter?
Yes. Run them clockwise on low to gently push warm air down without drafts.

Q: Are space heaters safe to use?
Use tip-over & overheat-protected models, plug directly into a wall (no power strips), keep 3-ft clearance, and never leave unattended.

Q: How often should I service my furnace and chimney?
Annually. This helps prevent CO leaks, fires, and mid-season breakdowns.

Q: What’s the fastest way to reduce ice dams right now?
Safely use a roof rake after storms and ensure attic soffit ventilation is unobstructed while you plan insulation/air-sealing.

Q: Will attic insulation alone stop ice dams?
It helps, but air-sealing warm leaks (recessed lights, hatches, chases) is just as important to reduce melt.

Q: Who do I call for water damage from a burst pipe?
A certified restoration firm (that’s us) for extraction, drying, and mold-prevention—then your plumber for repairs.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

Led by Nasutsa Mabwa, CEO, and Sam Simon, COO, we’re a multi-award-winning, IICRC-certified restoration and specialty cleaning company serving Chicago and Northern Cook County, the North Shore, Lake County, and DuPage County.

Services:

• Water & Flood Damage
• Fire & Smoke Damage
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning (carpet, upholstery, post-construction, hoarder/clutter)