Preparing Your Property for Winter in the Seacoast Area: A Complete Homeowner's Guide

As autumn colors fade and temperatures drop across Maine and New Hampshire's beautiful Seacoast region, it's time to prepare your property for the challenging winter months ahead. From Portsmouth to Dover, and from South Berwick to the coastal communities, proper winter preparation can save you thousands in repairs and ensure your family's comfort throughout the season.

🍂 Why Winter Prep Matters in Our Region

The Seacoast area experiences unique winter challenges:

• Temperature swings from mild coastal days to bitter inland nights

• Heavy snow loads that can stress roofs and gutters

• Ice storms that can damage trees and power lines

• Salt air exposure along the coast that accelerates corrosion

• Freeze-thaw cycles that can crack foundations and driveways

Starting your winter preparation in October ensures you're ready before the first snowfall hits.

🏠 Exterior Property Checklist

Roof & Gutters

✓ Clean all gutters and downspouts

• Remove leaves, twigs, and debris

• Check for proper drainage away from foundation

• Install gutter guards if needed

• Pro tip: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams that cause expensive roof damage

✓ Inspect roof condition

• Look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles

• Check flashing around chimneys and vents

• Clear debris from roof valleys

• Schedule professional inspection if you notice issues

Trees & Landscaping

✓ Tree maintenance (CRITICAL for storm preparation)

• Remove dead or weak branches that could fall on your home

• Trim branches hanging over rooflines

• Check for signs of disease or pest damage

• Consider professional tree service for large or dangerous removals

✓ Lawn and garden prep

• Final mowing (cut grass shorter for last cut)

• Rake and remove all fallen leaves

• Apply winter fertilizer to strengthen grass roots

• Drain and store garden hoses

• Shut off exterior water valves

Driveways & Walkways

✓ Surface preparation

• Fill cracks in asphalt or concrete

• Clean and seal surfaces if needed

• Check drainage to prevent ice formation

• Stock up on ice melt (avoid rock salt near plants)

🌨️ Snow Removal Preparation

Equipment Check

• Snow blowers: Service engine, check belts, fresh fuel

• Shovels: Have multiple sizes ready

• Ice melt/sand: Stock 2-3 bags minimum

• Emergency supplies: Flashlights, batteries, blankets

Professional Snow Removal

Consider hiring professionals like Exterior Etcetera for:

• Reliable service during heavy storms

• Proper equipment for efficient removal

• Liability protection for your property

• Peace of mind during travel or busy periods

🏡 Home Exterior Maintenance

Siding & Paint

✓ Pressure washing (before temperatures drop)

• Remove dirt, mildew, and salt buildup

• Allow surfaces to dry completely

• Touch up paint chips to prevent water damage

• Caulk gaps around windows and doors

Windows & Doors

✓ Weatherproofing

• Install storm windows or check existing ones

• Replace worn weatherstripping

• Caulk gaps and cracks

• Test door and window locks

Outdoor Furniture & Equipment

✓ Proper storage

• Clean and store patio furniture

• Drain and store outdoor water features

• Cover grills and outdoor kitchens

• Store garden tools in dry location

🚗 Vehicle & Driveway Preparation

Driveway Maintenance

• Seal coating: Apply before winter if needed

• Crack repair: Fill small cracks to prevent expansion

• Drainage: Ensure proper water runoff

• Lighting: Install adequate lighting for safety

Vehicle Winterization

• Professional detailing before winter storage

• Undercarriage protection from road salt

• Emergency kit: Blankets, flashlight, first aid

• Tire inspection: Consider winter tires for safety

🌊 Coastal-Specific Considerations

For Properties Near the Ocean

✓ Salt air protection

• Extra attention to metal fixtures and hardware

• Regular cleaning of windows and siding

• Protective coatings on outdoor metal surfaces

• Check for accelerated corrosion

✓ Storm surge preparation

• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles

• Know your evacuation routes

• Have emergency supplies ready

• Document property condition for insurance

📅 Month-by-Month Winter Prep Timeline

October

• ✅ Gutter cleaning and roof inspection

• ✅ Tree trimming and removal

• ✅ Final lawn care and leaf removal

• ✅ Pressure washing exterior surfaces

November

• ✅ Winterize outdoor water systems

• ✅ Store outdoor furniture and equipment

• ✅ Stock winter supplies (salt, sand, emergency kit)

• ✅ Schedule snow removal service

December

• ✅ Final property walkthrough

• ✅ Test heating systems

• ✅ Prepare emergency supplies

• ✅ Review insurance coverage

⚠️ Don't Forget These Often-Missed Items

1. Outdoor faucets: Disconnect hoses, shut off interior valves

2. Sprinkler systems: Professional winterization recommended

3. Pool equipment: Proper closing prevents expensive damage

4. Generator maintenance: Test and service before storms hit

5. Insurance review: Ensure adequate coverage for winter damage

💰 Budget-Friendly Tips

DIY Projects

• Caulking windows and doors

• Cleaning gutters (if single-story)

• Basic weatherstripping replacement

• Stocking emergency supplies

Professional Services (Best Investment)

• Tree removal and trimming

• Roof inspections and repairs

• Pressure washing

• Snow removal contracts

🆘 Emergency Preparedness

Create a Winter Emergency Kit

• 72-hour food and water supply

• Battery-powered radio and flashlights

• First aid supplies and medications

• Warm clothing and blankets

• Cell phone chargers (battery-powered)

• Important documents (waterproof container)

Know Your Service Providers

Keep contact information handy for:

• Heating system repair

• Emergency tree removal

• Snow plowing services

• Power company outage reporting

• Insurance company claims

🏆 The Bottom Line

Proper winter preparation is an investment in your property's value and your family's safety. While some tasks can be handled by motivated homeowners, others require professional expertise and equipment.

When to Call Professionals

• Tree work near power lines or structures

• Roof repairs or inspections

• Large-scale pressure washing projects

• Snow removal for commercial properties or large driveways

At Exterior Etcetera, we've helped Seacoast area homeowners prepare for winter for years. From comprehensive fall cleanups to reliable snow plowing services, we understand the unique challenges our region faces.

📞 Ready to Prepare Your Property?

Don't wait until the first snowflake falls! Start your winter preparation today to ensure a safe, comfortable season ahead.

Contact us for a free consultation:

• Phone: (207) 305-3906

• Email: clee@exterioretcetera.com

• Service Areas: Dover NH, South Berwick ME, Eliot ME, North Berwick ME, Rollinsford NH

Remember: A little preparation now can save you thousands in repairs and give you peace of mind all winter long.

Have questions about winter property preparation? Leave a comment below or contact our team of local experts. We're here to help you protect your most valuable investment – your home.

Stay warm and stay prepared, Seacoast neighbors! ❄️🏠