How Extreme Weather Affects Your Home

The weather is a significant factor in the frequency of home upgrades and repairs. Your house has different materials, such as glass, vinyl, steel, wood, and concrete, which all react uniquely to extreme weather. Therefore, you should know these materials and their maintenance needs with regard to changes in weather conditions.

If you can predict seasonal weather changes, ensure your home is ready to handle the harsh conditions. You may also perform routine checks to ensure that unpredictable weather conditions do not cause costly damage to your home. This piece discusses a few weather conditions that warrant home repairs.

Heat

The frequency of heat waves in the United States has increased significantly over the years. One of the main materials that respond poorly to temperature changes is wood. For example, wooden siding quickly loses moisture during such extreme heat conditions. The wood attempts to expand but ends up cracking and creating openings on your wall.

Thermal expansion is also a common occurrence in window frames. This process changes the size and shape of window frames, especially wooden ones. It also causes cracks in the structure, changes in shape, and cracks on glass panels. The window seal also breaks and leaves a gap where water and air can enter.

Snow

Wood siding is a beautiful siding choice due to its natural look. However, snow can become a real hindrance to those with wood siding. Wood siding often needs periodic maintenance and special sealants for the best protection against winter weather. Otherwise, the moisture can warp wood or cause it to rot.

Another common issue caused by snow is flooding in the basement. Ice can melt and enter your basement, causing water damage. Common problems attributable to ice in the basement and walls include mold growth, carpet damage, and leaks. In addition, ice can split trees, which then fall onto your home.

Wind

Most structures on your walls, such as windows and siding, are watertight during construction. However, extreme wind can pull siding panels from the wall. The wind also disrupts the groove and tongue setup that makes the siding watertight. When the rain falls, the siding can easily leak water into the house, causing mold growth, carpet damage, and other forms of water damage.

One of the best solutions is to use durable materials that resist extreme wind. For example, hurricane-resistant siding is essential in places that experience strong winds. Constantly check the condition of your siding before and after hurricanes. Your readiness in such a period can help you prevent extreme weather damage inside the house.

Heavy Rain

Heavy rain reveals a lot of weaknesses in the roof, siding, windows, and other parts of your home. For example, cracks could cause leakage during heavy rainfall. Your walls may also leak, leading to severe water damage. Still, the leakage might result from old age or previous weather damage. Ensure you rectify such issues immediately.

Rain is often predictable, and you can prepare your house by performing necessary repairs as a preventive measure. Once the rainy season starts, some repairs may be challenging to implement successfully. For example, using cranes and other steel structures in the rain threatens the repair crew, especially when there is lightning and thunder.

Extreme weather conditions constantly cause damages that require repair and improvement. As a best practice, you should hire professionals to inspect the property and determine the required repairs and preventive measures. 1st Choice Windows & Siding is your one-stop shop for all your window, door, and siding installation, repair, and improvement. Consult us today and ready your home to face extreme weather changes in your area.