When the temperatures drop in the Pittsburgh and Moon Township, PA area, your home does more than just keep you warm. It faces some serious pressure from the elements. Winter weather can cause damage that isn’t always obvious until it becomes a bigger, more expensive problem. At Clarity Home Inspections LLC, we know firsthand how cold-related structural issues can sneak up on homeowners. That’s why we’re here to help you spot the warning signs early. During Spring 2025, be sure and book your next home inspection with us so we can detect any issues from last Winter season.

Here’s what to look out for during these past chilly Pennsylvania months:

1. Cracks in Walls and Foundations

Cold temperatures can cause the soil around your home to expand and contract, putting pressure on your foundation. This often results in visible cracks in basement walls or along the foundation line. Inside the home, you might see cracks forming above windows or doors, which may indicate structural shifting due to freeze-thaw cycles.

If you notice any new or widening cracks, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection. Our Moon Township home inspections include detailed evaluations of these trouble areas to help prevent further damage.

2. Doors and Windows That Stick

Is your front door suddenly harder to close? Are your windows sticking more than usual? As temperatures fluctuate, wood can swell or shrink, causing misalignments in your doors and windows. While this might seem like a minor nuisance, it can be a symptom of structural stress caused by the cold.

Don’t ignore these signs — they may indicate underlying movement in your home’s frame or foundation.

3. Ice Dams on the Roof

Ice dams are common in the Pittsburgh and Moon Township, PA area, and they can lead to serious issues. When heat escapes through your roof, it melts snow that then refreezes at the edge, forming an ice dam. This traps more water, which can seep into your roof and walls.

Check for icicles or water stains on ceilings — both are red flags. Regular roof inspections, especially after snowstorms, can protect your home from costly water and structural damage.

4. Uneven or Sagging Floors

Cold-related foundation shifting can also impact your flooring. If you start noticing uneven or sagging floors, it could mean that the structural supports beneath your home are being affected by freezing temperatures or moisture buildup in the crawl space or basement.

During a Moon Township home inspection, we assess these hidden areas thoroughly, giving you peace of mind after a harsh winter season.

5. Drafts and Increased Heating Bills

Noticing a sudden spike in your heating bill? That could be due to structural gaps caused by shifting or shrinking materials in your home’s envelope. Drafts, especially around baseboards or attic access points, may suggest insulation problems or movement in the home’s framework.

Proper insulation and ventilation are key to avoiding these costly issues — and they’re both part of our standard home inspection process.

If you suspect your home may be suffering from winter damage, schedule a Moon Township home inspection with us today. We’ll provide a clear, professional assessment — and the peace of mind you need to stay cozy all season long.