How do I prepare my house for winter so pipes don't freeze or the foundation doesn't crack?

Winter prep is really about controlling two things: temperature and water. Michigan's freeze-thaw cycles are hard on homes because water expands when it freezes, and that expansion is what cracks pipes and stresses foundations.

A few things we recommend to every homeowner before the cold sets in:

• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off exterior spigots if you have a separate shutoff valve
• Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, and attics
• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees, even when you're away, so interior pipes don't get cold enough to freeze
• Check your foundation for existing small cracks before winter, since freeze-thaw cycles will widen them if left alone
• Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear so melting snow and ice don't pool near your foundation

That last point is where a lot of foundation damage actually starts. Water that isn't directed away from your home finds its way into small cracks, freezes, and expands them over the winter. If you're not sure what shape your foundation or plumbing is in going into the season, that's exactly what our free inspections are for.