Winter Walkthroughs: What We Look For (and What Homeowners Should Expect)
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.