Winter Home Maintenance Tips for a Snowier Massachusetts Winter
Mother Nature is making her presence known this winter across Massachusetts. With stronger storms, heavier snowfall, and longer stretches of cold, New England homes are being put to the test. While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to protect our homes and prevent costly damage. These winter maintenance tips will help you stay ahead of the snow, ice, and cold—no matter what the season throws your way.
Clear and Check Your Gutters
With more snow this year, ice dams are a bigger concern. These form when melting snow refreezes at the roof edge or inside gutters, blocking proper drainage. Trapped water can work its way under shingles and into your home.
What to do:
- Clean gutters before major storms hit.
- After heavy snow, keep an eye out for ice buildup along the roofline.
- Use a roof rake to safely remove excess snow when possible.
- Address recurring ice dams with a professional—temporary fixes won’t solve the root issue.
Staying on top of gutter maintenance helps prevent water from backing up where it doesn’t belong. Regular checks during heavy snow periods can protect your roof, siding, and interior from avoidable winter damage.
Pay Attention to Your Pipes
Frozen pipes remain one of the most common (and expensive) winter issues. When temperatures dip, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause cracks or bursts—often when no one is home to notice.
What to do:
- Drain and shut off water to outdoor faucets and unheated exterior lines.
- Insulate pipes in colder areas like basements, garages, crawl spaces, and attics.
- Keep interior cabinet doors open during extreme cold to allow warm air to circulate.
- If a pipe freezes, shut off the water immediately and call a professional before it thaws and leaks.
Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney
A cozy fire is tempting during a snowstorm, but it’s only safe if your chimney is clear and properly maintained.
What to do:
- Schedule a professional chimney inspection if you haven’t had one recently.
- Remove debris, nests, or creosote buildup before lighting your first fire of the season.
- Make sure your damper opens and closes properly.
Taking the time to inspect and maintain your fireplace now ensures you can enjoy a warm, safe fire all winter without risking damage to your home.
Watch for Snow Overload
Heavier, wetter snow adds serious weight to your roof. While modern homes are built to handle snow loads, prolonged accumulation—especially followed by thawing and refreezing—can cause problems.
Warning signs to watch for:
- Cracking, popping, or unusual creaking sounds
- Doors or windows suddenly sticking
- Visible sagging or leaks
Seal Windows and Exterior Doors
Cold air sneaking in doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable—it drives up heating costs and can create moisture issues.
What to do:
- Caulk gaps around windows and door frames.
- Install or replace door sweeps.
- Check weatherstripping and replace anything worn or damaged.
- These small fixes can make a noticeable difference during prolonged cold snaps.
Sealing your windows and doors helps keep your home warm, energy-efficient, and protected from winter moisture all season long.
Stay Informed During Storms
With changing temperatures and multi-day storms becoming more common, staying informed matters.
- Follow local forecasts and storm alerts.
- Be aware of sudden temperature swings that increase freeze-thaw risks.
- For safety updates and winter preparedness resources, check mass.gov or your local municipality’s website.
Winter Preparedness Starts at Home
Winter in Massachusetts can be unpredictable, especially with heavier snowfall becoming more common. Taking a few proactive maintenance steps now can help protect your home, reduce costly repairs, and keep your household safe and comfortable all season long. A little preparation goes a long way when winter weather is at its worst.