Winter weather poses significant challenges to home integrity. This guide covers preparation strategies across heating, plumbing, insulation, exterior maintenance, and safety measures.
Heating System Maintenance
Before Winter:
- Schedule annual furnace or boiler inspections with licensed contractors
- Replace or clean forced-air system filters
- Have chimneys inspected and cleaned to prevent creosote buildup
During Winter:
- Monitor fuel tank levels regularly
- Maintain thermostat settings at minimum 55°F to prevent pipe freezing
- Keep interior doors open for even temperature distribution
Protecting Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes create expensive damage risks. Preventive steps include:
- Drain exterior spigots before freezing temperatures arrive
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces using UL-listed heat tape
- Open cabinet doors under sinks during extreme cold to allow warm air circulation
- Allow faucets to trickle slightly to maintain water movement
- Learn how to shut off water supply in emergency situations
Insulation & Weatherproofing
Energy efficiency and damage prevention require:
- Add attic insulation to prevent ice dams from roof snow melt
- Install weather stripping around doors and caulk windows
- Remove window screens and install storm windows
Exterior & Gutter Maintenance
Structural protection involves:
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams; direct water away from foundations
- Trim tree branches near the home to prevent snow/ice damage
- Repair steps and handrails for safety
- Cover outdoor furniture and grills
Winter Safety Measures
- Test smoke detectors, fire alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries
- Stock supplies: snow shovels, roof rakes, ice-melting compounds
- Service snow blowers and generators before winter
- Store fuel in approved safety containers away from heat sources
Chimney & Fireplace Care
- Schedule yearly professional chimney inspections and cleaning
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for wood-burning or pellet stoves
Foundation Protection
Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on your home’s foundation, causing cracks and leaks — especially in New England’s glacial till and clay-heavy soil, where frozen ground expands by up to 9%. Look for water in your basement after rain, white powder on basement walls (efflorescence), or a musty smell in your basement. Attack A Crack offers free foundation repair consultations and inspections to address potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Most crack repairs run $800-$1,200 per crack with a lifetime guarantee.
Connecticut: 860-573-8760 Massachusetts: 617-668-1677
