Leaving the island for the season or planning to enjoy quiet winter weekends? Nantucket’s beauty comes with coastal wear and tear: wind, salt, high tides, and occasional power outages. With a few timely steps, you can protect your home, reduce surprises, and make spring opening a breeze. This guide gives you a clear, island-smart checklist and timing you can trust. Let’s dive in.
Why winterizing matters on Nantucket
Nantucket’s maritime setting means steady wind and salt that speed up corrosion and wear. The Atlantic storm window runs into late fall, and the average first frost arrives in early November, so you want outdoor work wrapped up before then. The Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30, so late-season Nor’easters are still in play. The Town also reports rising sea levels and more frequent nuisance flooding, which can amplify winter storm surge and drainage challenges.
- Plan exterior tasks by early November based on the average first frost.
- Stay storm-aware since hurricane season runs through November 30.
- Note that the Town reports about 8.7 inches of sea-level rise since 1950, increasing high-tide flooding risks downtown and along low-lying areas. Learn more on the Town’s Sea-Level Rise page.
Your pre-winter timeline
- Late summer to early fall: Book HVAC service, chimney sweep, and major exterior repairs. Reserve contractor time and line up any boat haul-outs.
- September to October: Clean gutters, winterize irrigation, service generators, and disconnect hoses. Secure outdoor items before first big blows.
- By early November: Finish exterior sealing and plumbing shutdowns. Finalize vacancy plans if you will be off-island.
Exterior and site checklist
Roof, gutters, and drainage
Inspect shingles and flashing, especially at ridges and eaves, and secure or replace any loose sections. Clean gutters and downspouts so meltwater and rain do not back up into the roof. Confirm downspouts carry water away from the foundation. If ice dams have been an issue, speak with a pro about insulation and ventilation balance.
Openings and envelope
Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations to cut drafts and keep pests out. If your home is in the Historic District, check with the Historic District Commission before changing visible exterior elements like storm panels or window sashes. Install or service storm windows where appropriate and store screens.
Decks and siding
Tighten or replace corroded fasteners. Inspect decking, railings, and trim for loose boards or failing paint, then repair and seal before winter moisture and freeze–thaw cycles set in. Use stainless or hot-dip galvanized hardware where possible.
Irrigation and outdoor water
Shut off and drain exterior hose bibs, irrigation lines, and your outdoor shower if you have one. Blow out underground irrigation if applicable. Disconnect and store garden hoses; add foam covers to exposed spigots.
Trees, landscaping, and outdoor items
Trim limbs that overhang the roof, driveway, or power lines to reduce storm damage. Store or secure furniture, grills, and loose yard items. Protect vulnerable plantings with wind screens or burlap wraps.
Boats and moorings
If you keep a boat in the water, coordinate early with your yard and the Nantucket Harbormaster about haul-outs, storage, and winter pump-outs. Storm planning is essential heading into late fall.
Snow and access
Know your obligations: the Town prioritizes main roads, and property owners must clear adjacent sidewalks. Do not push snow into the street. Review local details on the Town’s Snow Removal page and watch for parking bans during storms.
Mechanical, plumbing, and fuel
Heating systems and fuel
Schedule a professional pre-season heating tune-up to improve efficiency and reduce breakdowns. Confirm oil or propane delivery plans early since island logistics can delay service during storms. If you will be away, keep a baseline fuel level and delivery schedule.
Protect pipes and fixtures
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawlspaces, and exterior walls. Shut off and drain exterior lines, and leave outdoor spigots open after the interior shutoff. During extreme cold, let susceptible faucets drip and open sink cabinets to circulate warm air. If vacating for the season, consider shutting off the main water and hiring a pro to winterize the system. Many owners set thermostats no lower than 55°F to limit freeze risk and moisture issues.
Septic systems
Follow Massachusetts Title 5 for pumping and inspections. If you expect long vacancy or significant use changes, consult a licensed local septic service about timing. Read state guidance on Title 5.
Generators and CO safety
Test your standby or portable generator and service batteries and fuel. Operate generators only outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents. Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas. The EPA offers practical guidance on indoor air quality and emergencies.
Electrical supply awareness
Because the island depends on undersea cables and local backups, prepare for occasional outages. Keep emergency contacts handy and consider a backup power plan, especially for heat monitoring if you are off-island.
Chimneys and fireplaces
Have chimneys inspected and swept to remove creosote and confirm clear venting. Check flue integrity for both wood and gas units before first use.
Interior care and vacancy
If you leave for the season
Set thermostats to a safe level, commonly 55°F or higher. Shut off the main water and drain lines, or have a professional winterize with antifreeze where needed. Empty perishables, unplug non-essential electronics, and share contact details with a trusted on-island contact or property watch service.
Moisture, mold, and pests
Run a dehumidifier where needed and use bath and kitchen ventilation to manage moisture. Seal small gaps to reduce rodent entry, and consider humane traps or a licensed pest service. The EPA’s emergency IAQ guidance linked above includes helpful moisture tips.
Alarms and emergency kit
Test smoke and CO alarms and replace batteries. Build a simple winter kit: flashlights, batteries, nonperishable food, water, first-aid kit, blankets, and phone chargers. Keep it accessible.
Insurance and documentation
Confirm coverage for wind, storm, and freeze-related water damage. If your home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, consider flood insurance. Take pre-winter photos of the property for claims and look up your address on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
Permits and local rules
- Historic properties: Exterior work visible from public ways may require an HDC Certificate of Appropriateness. Start with the Historic District Commission.
- Near wetlands or dunes: Projects in resource areas or buffers may need Conservation Commission review and seasonal restrictions. See the Town’s Conservation Commission page for current regulations.
- Snow rules and parking: Check the Town’s Snow Removal guidance for sidewalk clearing and storm parking rules.
Ready for winter support?
Whether you are new to the island or a long-time owner, a smart winter plan protects your investment and your peace of mind. If you need local referrals for seasonal services or you are planning a sale or purchase before spring, reach out. You will get personal, island-savvy guidance from start to finish with Lisa Sherburne.
FAQs
When should I finish outdoor winter prep on Nantucket?
- Aim to complete exterior work by early November, in line with the island’s average first frost and before late-season storms.
Do I need approval to add storm panels in the Historic District?
- Exterior changes visible from public ways may require HDC approval; start with the Historic District Commission to confirm what is allowed.
What thermostat setting helps prevent frozen pipes if I am away?
- Many owners set thermostats to about 55°F or higher and also shut off and drain water lines or hire a pro to winterize the system.
How do I prepare for potential power outages on the island?
- Test your generator, stock an emergency kit, install CO alarms, and follow EPA safety guidance for generator placement and indoor air quality.
Where can I check my flood risk and insurance needs?
- Look up your address on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center and discuss coverage with your insurer, especially if you are in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
