As a home inspector michigan, I've seen the damage that our harsh winters can inflict on homes that aren't properly prepared. From burst pipes to ice dams, foundation cracks and more, the costs of repairs can quickly add up. The good news is that with some preventative maintenance and vigilance, you can help your home withstand whatever Old Man Winter throws its way. Here are my top tips for getting your home ready for a Michigan winter.

Inspect and Service the Furnace

Your furnace is one of the most important systems in your home during the winter months. Make sure it's in good working order by having it inspected and serviced before winter sets in. This includes:

Replace Air Filters

Dirty air filters force your furnace to work harder and run less efficiently. Change or clean the filters at least every 3 months for optimal performance. Consider upgrading to a washable filter that can be reused.

Check Fuel Lines

Have any fuel lines or pipes leading to your gas or oil furnace checked for leaks or corrosion. Even minor issues should be repaired now to prevent bigger problems down the road.

Clean and Adjust Components

HVAC technicians have specialized tools to brush and vacuum out debris inside the furnace. They can also adjust components like the blower fan, flame sensor, and pilot light for maximum efficiency.

Check Emergency Cutoffs

Most furnaces have emergency cutoffs that shut down operation if a serious issue arises. Make sure these are in working order in case you need them.

By servicing your furnace before it gets fired up for winter duty, you'll ensure it runs safely and efficiently through the cold months.

Insulate Pipes and Water Heater

When the mercury drops in Michigan, preventing exposed water pipes from freezing should be a top priority. Start by locating pipes that run through uninsulated areas like garages, attics, or basements. Wrap these vulnerable pipes with specially designed foam tubing insulation. This creates a barrier to keep warmth in and cold air out.

Don't forget to insulate pipes leading to exterior spigots and your electric or gas water heater. For extra protection, install heat tape on pipes most prone to freezing. Plug heat tape into a thermostatically controlled outlet to save energy and prevent overheating hazards.

Caulk and Weatherstrip

Cracks, gaps and penetrations throughout your home's exterior envelope can let cold drafts in and warm air out all winter. Take time in the fall to methodically caulk and weatherstrip areas like:

Windows and Doors

Check framing for rotted wood or separation around each window and door. Remove old caulk and replace with fresh siliconized acrylic. Make sure weatherstripping forms a tight seal when closed.

Electrical Outlets and Switches

Cold drafts can squeeze through electrical boxes on exterior walls. Install foam gaskets behind outlets and switches to block gaps.

Attic Hatches

Insulated covers with weatherstripping help seal attic access hatches against heat loss and ice dams. Make sure the attic hatch seals tightly.

Exposed Plumbing or Wiring Holes

Seal areas where pipes, wiring or vents penetrate exterior walls with expanding spray foam. This cuts off heat loss and keeps rodents out!

Inspect the Roof and Gutters

Your roof and gutters take some of the worst abuse over a Michigan winter. Use this checklist to make sure they're prepared:

Patch Roof Leaks

Scan the roof (or hire a pro) to look for damaged shingles, blisters, and holes where water could penetrate. Repair or replace problem areas so meltwater has an escape route without damaging your home.

Clear Debris from Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause ice dams or water overflow that damages fascia boards, soffits, and exterior walls. Clean the gutters thoroughly before winter and consider gutter guards to keep them clear of debris.

Check Flashing

Look closely along chimneys, vent pipes, dormers and valleys on the roof for any loose, cracked or missing flashing. Water seeping behind flashing causes extensive interior damage. Reseal any questionable areas.

Adjust Downspouts

Make sure downspouts carry meltwater several feet away from the foundation. Water pooling near your foundation can freeze, expand and crack the foundation walls.

Check the Condition of Chimneys

If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, it's paramount that the chimney gets inspected before starting any fires. Look for:

Masonry and Mortar Damage

Scan the chimney masonry for missing bricks, cracked mortar joints, and spalling surfaces. These weak spots give moisture an entry point, which causes more damage when it freezes. Have a mason repair them prior to winter.

Creosote Buildup

Creosote is a combustible byproduct that accumulates inside chimney flues from burning wood. Too much buildup can catch fire, so hire a certified chimneysweep if you lacked cleaning and maintenance last season.

Loose or Missing Flashing

Improperly sealed flashing around the chimney creates gaps where water intrusion and ice dams can form. Snug up any loose flashing.

Spark Arrestor Screen

Make sure the chimney's spark arrestor screen is clear of creosote and debris in order to prevent sparks from escaping that could ignite your roof!

Check Appliances that Use Water

Any appliance that uses water has the potential to create a nightmare water leak or burst pipe if something malfunctions. Go through this list to check your major appliances before Old Man Winter comes knocking:

Water Heater

Set the temperature to 120°F (raining water temperature to at least 55°F). This lowers energy costs and reduces mineral buildup in the tank. Also check that pressure relief and overflow pipes are directed away from electrical or mechanical equipment.

Washer

Inspect fill hoses for bulges, kinks, cracks or leaks and replace older hoses. Make sure the washer drum and detergent dispenser are empty - leftover water can freeze solid and damage components. Consider an emergency water shutoff valve leading to the washer.

Dishwasher

Remove any debris in the pump and install a foil panel underneath to catch leaks. Inspect the water fill valve for corrosion and test that it stops filling properly. Leave access doors open overnight to allow interior drying after the last cycle.

Refrigerator/Freezer

Vacuum coils underneath and behind your refrigerator and freezer to improve efficiency and air circulation. This also prevents ice buildup and condensation that leads to water leaks.

Water Filters

Replace any water filters for refrigerators, sinks, pitchers, etc according to manufacturer recommendations. Slow flows from clogged filters increase freezing risk.

Prepare Landscaping and Exterior Elements

I've seen the destruction that heavy snow and ice can cause on vegetation, fences/trellises, and exterior structures when homeowners fail to prepare the outside areas of their home. Here are some tips:

Prune Shrubs and Trees

Trim back any dead/damaged branches and prune excessive growth making vegetation top-heavy. This prevents snow/ice damage and eliminates hiding spots for pests near your home. Carefully remove vines clinging to your home's exterior as well.

Clear Debris from Window Wells

Make sure window wells are clear of fallen leaves, mulch and other debris than can block drainage or meltwater escape. A clogged window well can direct water into your foundation.

Secure Fences and Gates

Check for loose posts, broken hardware and decaying wood on fence lines and yard gates. Repair now before heavy winds, snow and ice topple weak points. Think about staking taller ornamentals and young trees if needed.

Store or Secure Yard Items

Put away anything left outside like hoses, furniture, decorations, lightweight planters, etc. Anything left out will get buried and damaged under the heavy snow. Either store items in a shed/garage or secure them down as best you can.

I hope these preventative winterizing tips help you avoid the common (and expensive) homeowner headaches caused by winter weather in Michigan. Let me know if you have any other questions on getting your home ready before the snow flies!