Winter isn’t just about snow, ice, and cozy nights inside—it’s also one of the most important times of year to evaluate your home. And with Punxsutawney Phil seeing his shadow this Groundhog Day, we’re officially in for six more weeks of winter, which makes winter walkthroughs even more valuable.

At Mr. Clean Fix, winter walkthroughs help us spot issues before they turn into expensive spring surprises. Cold temperatures, snow load, and freeze–thaw cycles can expose weaknesses that stay hidden the rest of the year.

Here’s what we’re looking for—and what you can expect during a winter walkthrough.

Why Winter Is a Smart Time for a Walkthrough

Winter stresses a home in ways no other season does:

• Materials contract and expand

• Snow and ice test roofs and drainage

• Moisture finds every tiny weakness

• Heating systems work overtime

If something is going to fail, winter often shows us early warning signs.

Think of a winter walkthrough as preventative maintenance—not doom and gloom, just smart planning.

What We Look For During a Winter Walkthrough

🏠 Roof & Exterior

Winter conditions quickly reveal roof and siding issues. We check for:

• Ice dams or uneven snow melt

• Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles

• Loose or damaged siding

• Signs of wind damage

• Gutter performance and ice buildup

These clues tell us how your home handles moisture and snow load.

💧 Moisture & Water Intrusion

Water is sneaky—especially in winter. We’re looking for:

• Interior water staining on ceilings or walls

• Condensation buildup

• Drafty windows or doors

• Signs of leaks around penetrations and flashing

Catching moisture issues now can prevent mold, rot, and major repairs later.

🔥 Insulation & Heat Loss

If your heating bill feels painful, there’s usually a reason.
We look for:

• Cold spots and drafts

• Poor attic insulation

• Unsealed penetrations

• Inefficient windows or doors

Winter walkthroughs help pinpoint where heat is escaping—and where upgrades will give the biggest return.

🧱 Foundations, Decks & Structural Areas

Freeze–thaw cycles can shift and stress structures. We check:

• Foundation cracks or movement

• Deck posts and footings

• Stair stability

• Exterior trim and fascia

Small issues now are far easier (and cheaper) to address before spring.

What Homeowners Can Expect

A winter walkthrough isn’t about pressure or panic—it’s about information.

You can expect:

• Honest feedback on current conditions

• Identification of urgent vs. “plan-for-later” items

• Recommendations for temporary winter fixes if needed

• Ideas for spring projects based on what we see now

Sometimes the result is peace of mind. Sometimes it’s a smart plan. Either way, you’re ahead of the game.

Groundhog Day & Six More Weeks of Winter 🐿️❄️

With Phil predicting six more weeks of winter, now’s the perfect time to ask:
Is your home ready to handle the rest of the season?

Winter walkthroughs help ensure your home makes it through the cold months safely—and comes out the other side ready for spring projects instead of emergency repairs.

Thinking ahead beats fixing behind.

If winter has taught us anything, it’s that your home always tells a story—we just know how to read the signs.

When it’s 20 degrees outside, the last thing anyone wants to think about is home repairs. But here’s the hard truth:

Cold weather doesn’t pause problems—it makes them worse.

If you’re waiting for spring, you may already be paying for it.

Cold Temps Expose Weak Spots ❄️

At 20°, materials contract, seals fail, and moisture finds every tiny opening. That small leak, drafty window, or soft board you’ve been ignoring is under maximum stress right now.

What starts as a minor issue in winter often shows up in spring as:

• Rot or water damage

• Mold from trapped moisture

• Higher-than-normal heating bills

Freeze–Thaw Damage Adds Up 🧊➡️💧

When temperatures swing above and below freezing, water expands and contracts inside cracks and gaps. Over time, that means bigger cracks, loosened fasteners, and accelerated wear—especially on decks, siding, and exterior trim.

Spring Repairs Cost More 🌷

Once the weather warms up, everyone calls at once. Crews book out fast, material costs fluctuate, and projects get rushed. Waiting until spring often means paying more and waiting longer.

Emergency Repairs Don’t Care About the Weather 🚨

When something fails in freezing temps, it’s rarely convenient—or cheap. Emergency calls, temporary fixes, and cold-weather damage control add stress and cost that could’ve been avoided.

Motivation Monday Takeaway 💡

When it’s 20° outside, the smartest move isn’t ignoring the problem—it’s getting ahead of it.

Progress sometimes looks like handling things before they become urgent.
Your home—and your wallet—will thank you come spring.