The Homeowner’s Guide to Fall & Winter Maintenance

The Homeowner’s Guide to Fall & Winter Maintenance: What You Do Today Could Save You Tomorrow

Practical tips for protecting your Massachusetts home before the cold, snow, and Nor’easters arrive.

Fall in New England is a beautiful time of year. The leaves are changing, temperatures are dropping, and homeowners are enjoying those final opportunities to spend time outdoors before winter settles in.

But while we're admiring the foliage and pulling out our favorite sweaters, our homes are quietly preparing for a very different season.

Freezing temperatures. Heavy snow. Ice dams. Strong winds. Nor'easters. Frozen pipes. Power outages.

If you've lived on the South Shore of Massachusetts for any length of time, you know that winter weather can be unpredictable and sometimes unforgiving.

On a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Boston Connect Real Estate broker-owner Sharon McNamara was joined by a very special guest: her husband, Mark McNamara of McNamara Plumbing.

Together, they discussed the importance of preparing your home for fall and winter, sharing practical maintenance advice, real-life experiences, and lessons learned from decades of homeownership and working in the trades.

Their message was simple:

The time to prepare your home for winter isn't when the storm arrives. It's before you need to worry about it.

1. Don't Wait Until the Storm Is Coming to Prepare Your Property

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting until a major storm appears in the forecast before addressing outdoor maintenance.

By then, conditions may already be unsafe.

During the episode, Sharon and Mark discussed the preparations Mark made before an approaching Nor'easter.

He secured outdoor furniture, moved potted plants, brought in pool furniture, took down flags, and removed their smaller boat from the water.

Some of these tasks might seem obvious, but even heavy outdoor furniture can become dangerous during powerful wind gusts.

Sharon shared that their heavy Adirondack rocking chairs have actually blown off their deck during previous storms.

And with windows located directly behind those chairs, the potential for property damage is significant.

Before a major storm, homeowners should consider:

• Securing or storing patio furniture and cushions.

• Closing and securing umbrellas.

• Moving potted plants and lightweight decorations.

• Securing trash barrels and other loose items.

• Checking outdoor sheds, cabanas, and storage areas.

• Preparing boats and other recreational equipment.

• Evaluating trees and branches near the house.

• Moving vehicles away from potentially hazardous trees when possible.

It's also important to understand your property's exposure to wind. A sheltered yard may experience very different conditions from an open waterfront property.

The goal isn't simply to protect your belongings.

It's to prevent avoidable damage to your home and surrounding property.

2. Water Is One of Your Home's Biggest Enemies

If there was one theme that continued throughout Sharon and Mark's conversation, it was the importance of managing water.

As Mark explained from his years of plumbing experience, water will find its way through an opening if one exists.

And when water isn't properly directed away from your property, the consequences can be expensive.

Water intrusion can affect foundations, basements, flooring, insulation, and personal belongings.

In the winter, water introduces another problem: freezing.

That's why fall maintenance should include a careful look at how rainwater and melting snow move around your home.

Start with your gutters and downspouts

Gutters play an important role in moving water away from the roof and foundation.

When gutters become clogged with leaves, pine needles, and debris, water may not drain as intended.

That can contribute to moisture problems and winter ice buildup.

Before freezing temperatures arrive, have your gutters inspected and cleaned as needed.

Also pay attention to where your downspouts discharge.

Water shouldn't simply be directed from the roof to the ground immediately beside the foundation.

Sharon and Mark shared an especially valuable example from the Boston Connect Real Estate office building in Pembroke.

When Sharon purchased the building in 2019, there was evidence of significant water intrusion in the basement.

After investigating, Mark discovered that the downspouts and sump pump discharge were directing water too close to the building.

The sump pump was essentially removing water from the basement only to send it right back toward the foundation.

After redirecting the downspouts, replacing the sump pump, and correcting the discharge piping, they reported no further basement water intrusion.

It was a powerful reminder that sometimes solving a water problem begins outside the house rather than inside it.

3. Check Your Roof Before Snow and Ice Arrive

Your roof is one of your home's most important defenses against New England weather.

And yet, it's easy to overlook until there's a visible problem.

Fall is an opportunity to identify potential concerns before heavy snow, ice, and winter winds make repairs more difficult.

Look for signs such as missing or damaged shingles, visible wear, and concerns around flashing or roof penetrations.

Sharon suggested using binoculars or arranging a professional roof inspection rather than putting yourself at risk by climbing onto the roof.

Never climb onto a roof or ladder during a storm or unsafe weather conditions.

Mark also discussed the importance of timing roof-related work, particularly when high winds are expected.

During the episode, he described delaying roof-vent work on a waterfront new-construction project in Hull until the storm passed.

The lesson applies to homeowners as well: maintenance is important, but safety and appropriate weather conditions come first.

Addressing roof concerns in the fall may help reduce the likelihood of water intrusion during winter storms.

4. Pay Attention to Grading and Water Around Your Foundation

Have you ever noticed puddles forming next to your foundation after a heavy rain?

Or water running down a driveway toward your home?

These observations deserve attention.

Proper grading helps direct surface water away from the house.

When the surrounding ground slopes toward the foundation, water may collect where you least want it.

Sharon and Mark encouraged homeowners to walk around their properties and examine how water moves during and after rainstorms.

Pay particular attention to:

• Areas where water pools near the foundation.

• Window wells that collect runoff.

• Downspouts that discharge too close to the house.

• Walkways or patios that direct water toward the building.

• Visible foundation openings or cracks.

• Signs of moisture inside the basement.

This is particularly relevant for older South Shore homes, some of which have stone foundations or other construction features that require additional attention.

Mark noted that older foundations can develop openings and cracks over time.

While not every crack indicates a major structural issue, significant changes or persistent water intrusion should be evaluated by an appropriate professional.

Don't assume that a wet basement is simply something you have to live with.

Understanding where the water originates may reveal options for improving the situation.

5. Don't Forget About Your Sump Pump

A sump pump can be an important part of protecting a basement from water intrusion.

But simply having one installed isn't enough.

It needs to operate properly, and the discharge needs to carry water to an appropriate location.

As the Boston Connect office building example demonstrated, a sump pump that discharges too close to the foundation may allow water to circulate back toward the building.

Before periods of heavy rain or melting snow, consider having the system checked.

Understand where the water is being discharged and whether the pump is functioning as intended.

If your basement depends heavily on a sump pump, it's also worth discussing power-outage protection and backup options with a qualified professional.

A pump that isn't operating during a major storm may leave your basement vulnerable at the very moment you need it most.

6. Protect Your Pipes Before Freezing Temperatures Arrive

One of the most valuable portions of the episode came from Mark's plumbing experience.

When Sharon asked which pipes are most likely to freeze in South Shore homes, Mark immediately pointed to outdoor plumbing.

Outdoor faucets, outdoor showers, and irrigation systems are frequent trouble spots.

These are easy to forget once summer ends.

But when freezing temperatures arrive, water left inside vulnerable plumbing can create problems.

Outdoor plumbing deserves special attention

Before winter, homeowners should arrange for the appropriate shutdown or winterization of:

• Outdoor faucets and hose connections.

• Outdoor showers.

• Irrigation systems.

• Other seasonal water lines.

The exact procedure depends on the plumbing system, so it's important to understand how yours is designed.

Mark also discussed plumbing located along exterior walls and the importance of insulation and protection from drafts.

Pipes in vulnerable areas may need additional attention before temperatures drop.

Is leaving a faucet dripping always a good idea?

This was one of the more surprising discussions of the show.

Many homeowners have heard the advice to leave a faucet dripping during extremely cold weather to help prevent frozen water-supply pipes.

But Mark explained why that approach can create a different problem in certain homes.

In properties with exposed drainpipes particularly some elevated homes or homes with plumbing running through unheated areas a slow drip can freeze inside the drain.

As the water continues dripping, ice can accumulate until the drain becomes blocked.

The takeaway?

A strategy intended to protect one part of your plumbing may create a problem elsewhere.

Whether allowing a faucet to drip is appropriate depends on the home's plumbing configuration. Homeowners with exposed drains or recurring freezing problems should seek advice from a qualified plumber rather than relying on a universal rule.

7. Test Your Heating System Before You Actually Need It

There's nothing quite like the first really cold night of the season to remind you that your heating system hasn't been turned on in months.

Unfortunately, that's also when many homeowners discover something isn't working.

Mark recommended testing heating systems before the cold weather arrives.

Turn on the thermostats, allow the heat to run, and pay attention to unusual noises or performance issues.

While a brief test may not reveal every potential problem, it can identify obvious concerns before temperatures become uncomfortable.

This is also a good time to schedule appropriate professional heating-system maintenance.

The goal is to discover a problem while you still have time to address it not when your house is already cold.

8. Check Windows, Doors, and Drafty Areas

Have you ever walked past a window during the winter and immediately felt the temperature change?

Or noticed that one room is consistently colder than the rest of the house?

Sharon shared that certain areas of her own home, including a front closet and nearby wall, tend to feel especially cold during winter.

Mark explained that drafts and insulation deficiencies can contribute to these conditions.

Older homes may have gaps around windows, doors, outlets, or other openings that allow cold air to enter.

Fall is a good time to inspect weatherstripping, caulking, and door sweeps.

Look for visible gaps or damaged seals, and pay attention to areas that consistently feel drafty.

For larger insulation concerns, an energy professional may be able to recommend improvements.

And one safety reminder from Sharon and Mark: don't use an open flame near curtains or other combustible materials to check for drafts.

A safer inspection method is always preferable.

9. Don't Overlook Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As the heating season approaches, safety equipment deserves attention too.

Sharon emphasized the importance of making sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.

She shared an experience involving a home where a beeping smoke alarm had been removed rather than promptly addressed.

That is not a safe solution.

A beeping alarm may indicate a battery issue, an end-of-life warning, or another condition requiring attention.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions, replace batteries where applicable, and replace alarms when necessary.

Homeowners should also make sure alarms are properly installed and meet applicable requirements.

A functioning smoke or carbon monoxide alarm could save a life.

Don't ignore it simply because the sound is inconvenient.

10. Prepare for Power Outages Before They Happen

Nor'easters can bring heavy rain, snow, and damaging winds.

And when trees and power lines are affected, outages can follow.

Sharon encouraged homeowners to prepare before a storm by charging phones and other devices and making sure essential supplies are available.

Consider keeping flashlights, batteries, drinking water, and other necessary items accessible.

If your home has a generator, make sure you understand how to operate it safely and that it has been maintained appropriately.

Never operate a portable generator indoors, in a garage, or near openings where exhaust could enter the home.

Homeowners should also think about food storage during an extended outage.

Sharon and Mark shared a humorous story about storing a large batch of homemade sauce and meatballs in an outdoor grill during a winter storm only to discover that a mouse had found its way inside.

The lesson was memorable: outdoor storage isn't automatically secure or sanitary.

When preserving perishable food, use appropriate food-safety guidance rather than assuming cold outdoor temperatures will keep it safe.

11. Evaluate Trees Before Winter Storms

Mature trees are one of the beautiful features of many South Shore properties.

But they also require attention.

During the episode, Mark discussed having several large pine trees removed from around their property because of their proximity to the house and garage.

Sharon also reminded listeners to be cautious of damaged or hanging branches after a storm.

A branch that appears stable from the ground may still pose a serious hazard.

If you notice unhealthy trees, damaged limbs, or branches hanging over structures, consider having them evaluated by a qualified tree professional.

After a storm, avoid walking beneath damaged trees or attempting to remove dangerous hanging limbs yourself.

Tree maintenance isn't just about appearance. It's about protecting people, vehicles, and property.

12. Remember That Winter Maintenance Is Part of Protecting Your Investment

At Boston Connect Real Estate, we spend a great deal of time helping clients buy and sell homes.

But homeownership doesn't stop at the closing table.

In many ways, that's where the responsibility begins.

A home is often one of the largest financial investments a person will make.

Protecting that investment requires ongoing attention.

The little things matter.

Cleaning gutters.

Checking drainage.

Testing heating equipment.

Winterizing outdoor plumbing.

Addressing drafts.

Keeping safety equipment operational.

Watching for changes in the foundation.

None of these tasks may feel particularly exciting.

But they're all part of responsible homeownership.

And when it eventually comes time to sell, a history of consistent maintenance may help buyers feel more confident about the property.

A well-maintained home tells a story.

It shows that the owners have paid attention, addressed concerns, and taken pride in caring for their property.

Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Before winter arrives, take a few minutes to review these priorities.

The Best Time to Prepare Is Before There's a Problem

One of the things that made this episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable particularly relatable was the conversation between Sharon and Mark.

They weren't simply discussing maintenance recommendations.

They were sharing their own experiences as homeowners, the things they've learned over the years, and the problems Mark has encountered through his plumbing work.

From outdoor furniture blowing across the deck to basement water problems and frozen plumbing, their stories reinforced a valuable message:

Preventative maintenance is often easier than dealing with an emergency.

Not every home will face the same challenges.

A waterfront property in Marshfield may require different preparations from an older Colonial in Hingham or a newer home in Pembroke.

A house with a stone foundation may need different attention from one with a modern poured-concrete basement.

And a property with outdoor showers, irrigation, a sump pump, or exposed plumbing may have additional seasonal considerations.

That's why understanding your individual home is so important.

Beyond Real Estate: Helping You Care for the Place You Call Home

At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe our relationship with clients extends well beyond buying and selling property.

Homeownership is an ongoing journey, and having trusted professionals to turn to can make that journey easier.

Whether you're purchasing your first home, preparing to sell, considering a move, or simply looking for ways to protect the home you already love, our team is here to provide guidance and connect you with knowledgeable local professionals.

As Sharon and Mark reminded listeners, you don't have to wait for a major storm to start thinking about your home.

Sometimes the most valuable improvements are the ones you make before anyone notices there's a problem.

What you do today could save you tomorrow.

For more homeowner advice, local real estate insights, and conversations about buying, selling, and maintaining property throughout Massachusetts, tune in to Talk Real Estate Roundtable, sponsored by Boston Connect Real Estate.

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