Guide to Preparing Your Home for Boston’s Winter

Get your home ready for winter in Boston with these simple tips. You don't want to shiver through the cold months, so take some time now to make sure your house is properly prepared. Whether you're staying in Boston or heading south during the season, follow these suggestions to help prepare for winter.

Boston Climate

Boston's unique charm is truly unmatched, but as a coastal city, the weather can be quite unpredictable. From hot and humid summer days to cold and snowy winters, Boston gives retirees an eclectic mix of temperatures to experience. No two seasons are alike in this part of the country, so you’ll get an exciting mix of all four seasons.

Boston Winter Weather

Winter in Boston means temperatures dip below freezing, and severe snowstorms are aplenty. On average, the city sees about 49 inches of snow each year, usually during January and February. Once winter begins to fade away until next year, Bostonites experience a damp entry into spring with plenty of rain.

Winterizing a Home

Whether you plan to stay in Boston this winter or escape to the beach, you still need to care for and prepare your home for the weather. Forming a routine maintenance plan as well as continual monitoring during cold temperatures will help keep systems strong and prevent any water issues. Investing some time now into checking up on things will pay off later. You (and your bank account) will be glad you took the time to inspect before the ice and snow season.

It’s time to weather-proof windows and doors and add insulation around plumbing pipes. Get out your tools or call your local handyman for help.

Winterizing Doors and Windows

Protect your home this winter season with the addition of storm windows and doors. Before temperatures drop too low, check the seals around your window frames, re-caulk where needed, and install new weather stripping. Not only will you be preventing cold air from getting in, but you’ll also be trapping that warm and toasty air inside.

Winterizing Fireplaces and Chimneys

As you make preparations for winter, don't forget to check fireplaces and chimneys, if you have them. Inspect dampers for any dents or cracks. Ensure fireplace doors have a tight fit. Take these preventative measures now, or your heating and electric bill will pay the price.

Winterizing Outdoor Spaces

Although most people automatically think of winterizing their homes, outdoor spaces also need some attention before the cold snap. Keep your outside spaces in shape by cleaning, covering, and storing any furniture or grills. Clear away leaves from stonework or pavement to prevent ice buildup. Stock up on shovels, gloves, and snow melt. Having these tools ready means you'll be good to go when it starts to snow. Consider investing in heated mats, too; they're perfect for walkways and driveways.

Winterizing Basements

Take precautions to waterproof and insulate your basement so that snow melt doesn't cause any damage. When and if you can, clear away any nearby snow from outside of the house, and check laundry room exhausts and heating system openings for any snow, too.

If you plan on traveling or leaving for a second home during the winter months, ask a trusted friend or family member to swing by now and then just to make sure everything's in order.

Winter Insulation

Ensure your attic and basement are properly insulated to keep your energy bills low and reduce the amount of heat lost through uninsulated attics or crawl spaces. Install either sheet insulation or blown-in insulation, then seal up any potential air leaks with a panel of insulating material stapled to door frames for extra protection. A trusted heating and air company can help (or handle) this process.

Additional Cold Weather Tips

It's never too early to start preparing for the colder months, especially in Boston, where residents can experience freezing temperatures as early as October or November. To make sure your home is prepped and ready to handle anything winter throws your way, ask a professional inspector or general contractor to walk through your home, checking for proper winterization. They can also make any needed repairs or schedule maintenance to make sure your house is ready for winter.

• HVAC: To have a cozy and warm winter (indoors), get your heating system and ductwork thoroughly inspected. If oil heat is part of your setup, be sure you have an ample supply stored away, and ask the inspector to look at the storage tank, too. 

• Exterior: Ensure that roofs, chimneys, gutters, and downspouts are professionally inspected. Also check window casings and door frames for any exposed wood. If wood is exposed, apply a coat of paint or sealant to prevent moisture damage. 

• Plumbing: Make sure your pipes are prepared for the cold by having a thorough inspection for sufficient insulation. If the temperatures really dip, or you’re going out of town, keep your water running on a slight drip to prevent frozen or cracked pipes.

• Landscaping: Check that tree branches are properly trimmed, especially any widowmakers that hang over your home or driveway. Heavy, wet snow or ice can weigh down untrimmed branches or unhealthy, rotting trees, which can cause major damage if they land on your home. If your landscaping has an in-ground sprinkler system, it will need to be inspected and flushed to prevent leaks or breakage from expanding water lines.

Don’t let winter scare you from embracing an active lifestyle in Del Webb’s 55+ communities in Boston and experiencing all that this beautiful area has to offer. Explore Del Webb retirement communities in Boston today.