Winter in Central Pennsylvania brings more than just snow and holiday cheer, it also exposes hidden issues in homes that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.
At HouseMaster Serving Harrisburg and Lebanon, we see certain cold-weather problems pop up frequently during our winter inspections. Whether you’re a current homeowner, planning to list your property, or recently purchased a home, knowing these common maintenance issues can help you stay ahead of trouble.
Here are the top 5 winter maintenance issues we frequently uncover during professional home inspections and why it’s crucial to address them now.
1. Frozen or Burst Pipes
One of the most common and damaging winter issues we find is related to plumbing. When temperatures dip below freezing, water in uninsulated or poorly protected pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipes to burst. This often leads to flooding, water damage, and expensive emergency repairs.
Where We Find It:
- Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages
- Outdoor spigots and irrigation systems that haven’t been winterized
- Plumbing located in exterior walls
How a Home Inspection Helps:
Our inspectors look for signs of pipe insulation, proper sealing around hose bibs, and evidence of previous freeze damage. We also test water pressure, inspect under sinks, and evaluate the overall plumbing system’s readiness for winter. Preventive advice such as pipe insulation or draining unused lines can help avoid disaster.
2. Roof Damage and Ice Dams
Winter snow and ice can wreak havoc on roofing systems, especially if there are existing vulnerabilities. Ice dams, or ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof, prevent melting snow from draining, causing water to back up and leak into the home.
Where We Find It:
- Older or poorly maintained roofs
- Homes with clogged gutters or insufficient attic insulation
- Valleys, eaves, and flat roof sections
Common Warning Signs:
- Water stains on ceilings or attic sheathing
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Heavy icicle buildup along the roofline
What We Check:
A winter inspection includes checking shingle condition, flashing integrity, attic insulation levels, and ventilation. Our team also evaluates whether the home is at risk for ice dams and may recommend preventative actions like improving insulation or gutter maintenance.
3. Poor Ventilation and Humidity Issues
During winter, homes are sealed tightly to retain heat, but this often leads to trapped moisture and poor indoor air quality. Condensation on windows, musty odors, and mold growth can all result from inadequate ventilation.
High-Risk Areas:
- Attics and crawl spaces
- Bathrooms and kitchens without exhaust fans
- Basements with limited airflow
Our inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging to detect hidden dampness. We also assess attic ventilation, look for signs of mold or mildew, and evaluate fans and vents. Addressing ventilation issues early helps reduce health risks and prevent costly remediation in the spring.
4. Failing Heating Systems
Your HVAC system works hardest during the winter. Unfortunately, heating issues are often only discovered when it’s already cold, and by then, repairs can be inconvenient and costly.
What We Commonly Find:
- Dirty or clogged filters reducing airflow
- Older systems nearing the end of their service life
- Thermostats malfunctioning
- Blocked or damaged ductwork
What a Winter Inspection Reveals:
Our inspectors test HVAC functionality, measure temperature outputs, and review maintenance records. We ensure that your system is heating evenly and efficiently. We also check for proper thermostat operation and recommend professional servicing if any issues are identified.
5. Exterior Drainage and Foundation Concerns
Winter storms and melting snow can cause water to pool around the home’s foundation if gutters and downspouts are clogged or if grading slopes toward the house. This leads to basement leaks, foundation cracks, and frost heave damage.
Inspection Checklist Includes:
- Ensuring gutters are clean and downspouts extend away from the home
- Evaluating soil grading and slope around the foundation
- Looking for signs of past water intrusion or settling
- Checking basement walls and floors for cracks or dampness
Preventative Measures:
We provide suggestions to improve drainage, including splash blocks, regrading, and proper gutter maintenance. Catching these issues early prevents long-term structural damage and helps protect the integrity of the home.
Why Winter Inspections Matter
Many homeowners assume inspections are only for buying or selling, but they’re just as valuable for seasonal maintenance. A winter inspection provides a critical snapshot of how your home is performing under stress. Identifying small issues now can prevent them from becoming major repairs in the spring.
Who Should Consider a Winter Inspection?
- Homeowners preparing for snowbird travel
- Buyers who recently closed in the fall
- Sellers planning to list in early spring
- Anyone noticing cold drafts, poor airflow, or unexplained moisture
HouseMaster: Your Winter Inspection Experts
At HouseMaster of Harrisburg and Lebanon, our certified inspectors bring decades of combined experience in identifying cold-weather issues. We use advanced tools, local knowledge, and a detail-oriented process to deliver insights that help you protect your home and wallet all winter long.
From inspecting roofs under snow load to detecting moisture behind walls, we know how to uncover the hidden risks that winter weather can bring.
Every inspection includes:
- A detailed digital report with photos
- Explanations in plain language
- Clear maintenance recommendations
- Optional add-ons like radon testing, mold screening, and water quality testing
Schedule Your Winter Maintenance Inspection Today
Don’t wait until spring reveals the damage. Get ahead of winter issues with a proactive home inspection from HouseMaster. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or real estate professional, our team is here to help your property stay safe, healthy, and ready for whatever the season brings.
Contact HouseMaster Serving Harrisburg and Lebanon today to schedule your inspection and start the new year with confidence.
Harrisburg home inspectors Dan Ayers and Scott Ayers, like all Housemaster home inspectors, have extensive training and certifications and are tested annually to meet the industry standards of continuing education, inspection, reporting, and customer service. As part of the oldest and most trusted nationwide home inspection business, Dan and Scott have been able to put their decade long experience in fire and water property restoration and their passion for customer service to good use in the professional home inspection process. Request an inspection today!
