Before the First Frost
Connecticut's freeze-thaw cycles are hard on homes. Taking a weekend to prepare before November can prevent thousands in damage and keep your family comfortable through March.
Exterior Checklist
- Gutters: Clean all gutters and downspouts. Connecticut's deciduous trees drop massive volumes of leaves. Clogged gutters cause ice dams — the #1 winter damage issue in the state.
- Roof: Inspect for missing or damaged shingles. Repair before snow loads stress weak points.
- Foundation: Seal any visible cracks. Water infiltration followed by freezing can widen cracks dramatically.
- Outdoor faucets: Disconnect hoses, shut off interior valves, and drain outdoor spigots.
- Driveway: Seal asphalt cracks before freeze-thaw cycles turn them into potholes.
Interior Checklist
- Heating system: Schedule a professional furnace or boiler tune-up. Replace filters.
- Chimney: If you have a fireplace, get it inspected and swept annually. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard.
- Insulation: Check attic insulation depth. Connecticut code recommends R-49 (about 14 inches of fiberglass). Adding insulation pays for itself in 2-3 heating seasons.
- Windows and doors: Apply weatherstripping where drafts are felt. Consider storm windows for older single-pane units.
- Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like garages and crawl spaces.
Emergency Prep
Connecticut ice storms can knock out power for days. Keep a generator maintained and fueled, stock flashlights and batteries, and know how to safely shut off your water main if pipes freeze. A smart thermostat with alerts can notify you if indoor temperatures drop dangerously while you're away.