January in Minnesota doesn’t mess around. When temperatures drop into the extreme, your home needs a little extra help to stay safe, warm,
and damage-free.
Most homeowners know the basics: keep the heat on, clear the snow, don’t forget the mittens. But here are five lesser-known ways to protect your home when the cold really digs in.
1. Open cabinet doors (yes, really)
Any cabinet that backs up to an exterior wall should be left slightly open during extreme cold. This lets warm air reach plumbing and helps prevent frozen pipes. It’s a small move that can save you from a very big mess.
2. Check exterior vents, not just roofs
Bathroom, dryer, and furnace vents can ice over or get blocked by drifting snow. When that happens, moisture backs up and systems struggle. A quick walk around your home after a storm can prevent hidden damage.
3. Seal drafts you can’t feel
If you feel a draft, that’s obvious. But many cold air leaks happen behind outlets, light switches, and attic access points. These small gaps add up and drive heating costs way higher than they should be.
4. Don’t turn the heat way down when you leave
It’s tempting to save money by cranking the thermostat down while you’re away. In extreme cold, that can actually increase your risk of frozen pipes, especially in older homes. Steady and consistent is safer.
5. Ice dams aren’t just a roof problem
Ice dams can force water back under shingles, but the real damage often shows up later inside walls and ceilings. Proper insulation, ventilation, and air sealing matter more than most people realize.
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean surprise repairs. A little prevention goes a long way.
If you’re dealing with drafts, ice issues, or a home that just never feels warm enough, we’re happy to talk it through. Sometimes it’s a simple fix. Sometimes it’s a bigger plan. Either way, we believe in helping you make informed decisions that protect your home long-term.
👉 Reply to this email or visit 3rhomeservices.com to start the conversation.
Stay warm out there,
Rose & the 3R Home Services Team
