To create a home that can survive frozen water and large amounts of snow, the right materials should be chosen. Here, every aspect plays an essential role in forming a shelter which is energy efficient, right from the very foundation to the roof. 

Insulation

Insulation does way more than just keep a home warm in the cold winter months. In fact, well-insulated homes can keep out the summer heat too. For colder regions, both wall and ceiling insulation should have an R-value of at least R-20. R-value measures the effectiveness of insulation; higher numbers indicate better heat-trapping capabilities. Fiberglass and cellulose insulation both work well for walls and attics.

On top of insulation batts in between wall studs, an exterior layer that can withstand cold winters is necessary for a home. It functions as a weather-resistant barrier while also adding some insulation value with rigid foam sheathing. One way to meet these would be polystyrene foam sheathing from an EPS manufacturer like Epsilyte. Installers generally use panels that are 1–3 inches thick because it has an R-value around R-5 per inch.

Windows

Given that glass has very little insulating ability, choosing the right windows is crucial for cold climates. Look for whole window U-factors of 0.27 or less, which indicates excellent resistance to heat flow. Frame materials matter too. Fibrex, vinyl, wood, and fiberglass frames outperform metal frames. Wherever possible, go for triple pane glass to minimize heat loss through the windows.

Doors

Like windows, doors become vulnerable spots for losing indoor heat. Solid wood or insulated steel doors work better than standard hollow core designs. For garages and other entrances that directly connect the house to the outdoors, insulated doors with an R-value of at least R-10 severely limit heat transfer. Thermal breaks in the door frames also establish barriers between interior and outdoor temperatures.

Heating Systems

An efficient heating unit runs paramount to surviving cold winters. When evaluating heating system options, focus on the AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) ratings. The higher the percentage, the more heat gets transferred to the home rather than lost out the flue. Look for a furnace with a rating of 95% AFUE or higher. 

Roofing

A roof must endure substantial abuse from all the snow, ice, wind, and wild temperature swings. Dimensional asphalt shingles stand up well to cold climates as the material remains flexible in all but the most extreme freezing temperatures. For even greater protection, consider installing an ice barrier membrane along the roof edges and valleys. The membrane shields susceptible areas from ice dams which can force melting snow under shingles where it then refreezes. 

Foundations and Basements

Given that cold air naturally sinks, basements and crawlspaces become more susceptible to freezing. Close any cracks in foundation walls and ensure adequate insulation around all sides. Waterproofing paints also protect concrete from moisture damage related to freeze-thaw cycles. For foundation footings, extend the depth well below the local frost line or use frost-protected shallow foundation designs.

Protecting Water Pipes

One winter hazard involves water pipes bursting from expanding ice inside. Adequately insulating water pipes provides the best prevention method. Foam pipe sleeves slow heat transfer to pipes located along exterior walls. Alternatively, heat tape wrapped along the pipes senses near-freezing conditions and warms the surface just enough to inhibit icing. 

Conclusion

Building a home to handle cold winters requires research into climate-appropriate materials for insulation, windows, doors, heating, roofing, and plumbing. Factoring in energy efficiency and durability also ensures comfortable indoor living for years to come. With careful material selection and homeowner vigilance against winter hazards, the properly constructed cold-climate home withstands whatever freezing conditions come its way.