The Ultimate Winter Home Maintenance Checklist for Michigan Homeowners

Michigan winters are beautiful—but they can be brutal on your home if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re planning to sell in spring or simply want to protect your investment, here’s your ultimate winter home maintenance checklist from your local Southeast Michigan real estate experts.

1. Check Your Heating System

Your furnace or boiler is about to become the hardest-working system in your home. Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning before temperatures hit their lowest.
Replace filters monthly and listen for unusual noises—it’s always cheaper to address small issues before they turn into emergency repairs.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re selling soon, a recent HVAC inspection can be a great selling point for potential buyers.

2. Inspect and Clean the Gutters

Fallen leaves and early snow create a perfect recipe for ice dams, which can lead to leaks and roof damage. Clear your gutters and downspouts, then make sure water flows several feet away from your foundation.
If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder, this is one of the most affordable jobs to outsource—and it can save you thousands later.

3. Seal Up Drafts

Drafty windows and doors can drive up heating costs fast. Walk through your home on a windy day and feel around edges for cool air.
Add weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to keep heat in and cold out. You’ll notice the difference immediately in comfort—and in your utility bill.

4. Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of winter’s most expensive disasters.
Insulate exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces. On extra-cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing.
If you’re traveling or spending holidays away, set your thermostat no lower than 55°F to keep the water flowing safely.

5. Check Roof and Attic Ventilation

Your roof protects everything you own, so give it some attention before heavy snow hits.
Look for missing shingles, cracked flashing, or weak spots. Also, ensure your attic has good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ice dam formation.
If it’s been more than a few years since your last roof inspection, schedule one now—especially before Michigan’s January storms roll in.

6. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Don’t wait for the first major snow to realize you’re out of salt or shovel batteries.
Keep your garage stocked with ice melt, sand, snow shovels, and backup generator fuel.
You’ll thank yourself later when your driveway stays clear and safe all season long.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With furnaces and fireplaces running constantly, winter is prime time for indoor air hazards.
Check that all detectors have fresh batteries and test them monthly.
Better yet, consider upgrading to smart detectors that alert your phone in case of an issue—perfect for those who travel during the holidays.

8. Make It Cozy: Interior Comfort Checks

Once the essentials are handled, take a moment to focus on comfort.
Switch ceiling fans to clockwise rotation to push warm air down, add thick rugs for insulation, and bring out those cozy throws.
Your home should be a warm retreat from Michigan’s brisk weather—and these small touches make a big difference in how it feels.

Keep Your Home (and Investment) Protected This Winter

A little preparation now means fewer surprises later—and keeps your home market-ready if you decide to list in early spring.

If you’d like to know how your home’s value is performing this winter, we can help.
Get a free personalized Market Report for your Washtenaw County or Southeast Michigan neighborhood — it’s quick, easy, and built from real local data we track every day.
Register on our website to see how your property compares and what buyers are searching for this season.

Stay warm, stay proactive, and keep that Michigan home in top shape all winter long!



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Written by LIVgreat Real Estate, your trusted Washtenaw County real estate experts.
Email: hello@livgreatrealestate.com
Website: https://livgreatrealestate.com



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