Building Homes or Extensions/House in northern Wisconsin

Advertisement

Expert: - 11/3/2008


Question
We have a cinder block house on cement slab built in the early 60's.  The house is built very close to lake Michigan.  Some would like to turn the heat off completely during the winter.  We are afraid of heaving, mold, and other damage.  Is this a problem?

Answer
Hi Kim, in extreme climates whether it be hot or cold it is always a good idea to keep the house at least at a minimal temperature to keep the elements from overtaking the place.  Even if you kept the house at 40 degrees when not in use it would help.  If keeping the place heated during the winter poses a problem then I guess you have no choice.  You might check with the locals and see if any of the other homes in the area are left unheated and unattended during the winter months and see if they have experienced any problems.I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com

Building Homes or Extensions

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Bruce E. Johnson

Expertise

I can answer any construction related question in regards to carpentry, concrete, drywall, masonry, structural elements of any type of building, residential or commercial. Interior or exterior.

Experience

Custom Commercial and residential buildings. Churches, theaters, schools and auditoriums. Most recently I am working with the Catholic Church on several design build committees. I have a website related to scheduling and project supervision. Although my expertise is more related to multimillion dollar commercial, educational and theatrical projects my generous credentials in residential and remodelling construction make me a viable source of information regarding all forms of building questions.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.