Beautyguard

If you live in the Midwest, you’ve felt it: temperatures swing above freezing during the day, then plunge overnight. While it might seem like just another annoying winter pattern, this constant back-and-forth—known as freeze-thaw cycles —can quietly take a toll on your home’s exterior. Understanding how freeze-thaw cycles work, and why they’re so damaging, can help you spot problems early and choose exterior materials that actually hold up in cold climates. What Is a Freeze-Thaw Cycle? A freeze-thaw cycle happens when temperatures rise above 32°F (allowing moisture to melt) and then drop back below freezing (causing that moisture to refreeze). In the Midwest, this can happen dozens—or even hundreds—of times over a single winter. Here’s why that matters: When water freezes, it expands by about 9% . That expansion creates pressure inside tiny cracks, seams, and pores in exterior materials. When temperatures warm again, the ice melts, leaving slightly larger gaps behind. Repeat this process over and over, and small imperfections turn into major damage. Why Freeze-Thaw Cycles Are Especially Hard on Midwest Homes Midwest winters are particularly brutal because they combine: Frequent temperature swings Heavy snow and ice Wind-driven moisture Long periods of saturation followed by deep freezes Homes in consistently cold or consistently warm climates don’t face the same repeated expansion and contraction. It’s the constant change that does the damage. Exterior Materials Most Affected by Freeze-Thaw Cycles Masonry (Brick, Stone, Concrete) Masonry materials are durable—but they’re also porous. When water seeps into brick or stone and freezes, it can cause: Cracking Spalling (surface flaking or chipping) Mortar joint failure Older masonry and improperly sealed stone are especially vulnerable. Siding Different siding materials respond differently to freeze-thaw stress: Vinyl siding can become brittle in extreme cold and crack if impacted. Wood siding absorbs moisture, leading to swelling, splitting, or rot. LP/Composide siding handles freeze-thaw well when properly installed but can crack if moisture penetrates cuts or edges. Proper installation and sealing are just as important as material choice. Roofing Freeze-thaw cycles are a major contributor to: Ice dams Shingle cracking Loosened fasteners Premature roof aging Water that gets beneath shingles during a thaw can refreeze overnight, lifting materials and widening entry points for future moisture. Common Signs of Freeze-Thaw Damage Not all damage is obvious at first glance. Watch for: Hairline cracks in brick, stone, or concrete Flaking or crumbling masonry surfaces Warped or cracked siding panels Gaps around trim, windows, or doors Loose mortar joints Persistent ice buildup along roof edges Catching these early can prevent much more expensive repairs later. How the Right Materials Can Reduce Freeze-Thaw Damage Not all exterior products are created equal—especially in cold climates. Materials designed for Midwest conditions typically offer: Lower moisture absorption Greater flexibility during temperature changes Improved sealing systems Enhanced durability at low temperatures Examples include: Properly rated composite siding Engineered stone with low absorption rates Roofing systems designed for snow load and ice management High-quality sealants and moisture barriers Equally important is correct installation . Even the best material will fail if moisture is allowed to penetrate behind it. Why Winter Damage Often Shows Up in Spring Many homeowners don’t realize there’s a problem until spring thaw reveals: Expanded cracks Loose materials Water stains Structural shifting By then, damage has often progressed beyond a simple fix. That’s why winter inspections—and planning ahead—matter. Protecting Your Home Against Freeze-Thaw Cycles While you can’t control the weather, you can: Choose materials rated for cold climates Ensure proper drainage and ventilation Keep gutters and downspouts clear Seal vulnerable joints and penetrations Address small cracks before winter sets in If repairs or upgrades are needed, winter is often a smart time to plan , source materials, and line up spring projects before peak season hits. Built for Midwest Winters Freeze-thaw cycles are one of the biggest stress tests your home’s exterior will ever face. Understanding how they work—and choosing materials designed to withstand them—can significantly extend the life of your siding, roofing, and masonry. If you’re unsure whether your exterior materials are truly built for Midwest conditions, talking with a local building materials expert can help you make informed, long-term decisions—before winter leaves its mark.

Hold back the cold with these helpful tips!