New England winters are no joke. Ice dams, frozen pipes, heavy snow loads, and bitter cold can cause thousands of dollars in damage if your home isn't prepared. Use this checklist to get ahead of winter.
Roof & Gutters
Inspect your roof for missing, cracked, or curling shinglesClean gutters and downspouts — clogged gutters are a leading cause of ice damsCheck flashing around chimneys, skylights, and ventsTrim overhanging branches that could break under snow loadConsider heat cables for ice dam-prone areasExterior
Inspect siding for cracks, gaps, or loose panelsSeal gaps around windows, doors, and where utilities enterCheck caulking and replace any that's cracked or peelingDisconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior water suppliesCover or store outdoor furnitureAttic & Insulation
Check attic insulation — R-49 or higher is recommended for New EnglandEnsure proper ventilation — balanced intake and exhaust prevents ice damsSeal air leaks around recessed lights, plumbing stacks, and attic hatchesCheck for moisture or signs of previous leaksHeating System
Service your furnace/boiler — annual tune-ups prevent mid-winter breakdownsReplace air filtersBleed radiators if you have hydronic heatingTest your thermostat and consider a programmable or smart modelEmergency Prep
Know your shutoff locations for water, gas, and electricalStock de-icing salt and snow removal toolsHave a backup heat source and flashlights with fresh batteriesKnow who to call for emergency roof and ice dam serviceDon't Wait
The best time to prepare is before the first frost. Many of these tasks — especially roof repairs and insulation upgrades — should be done in fall when contractors are available and weather cooperates.
Need help preparing your home? Contact Peak Exteriors for a pre-winter inspection.