Homeowner October Checklist
Pre-Winter Protection for the Hudson Valley
Quick List
Drain and store garden hoses after the last harvest.
Winterize outdoor faucets with covers or shut-off valves.
Install weatherstripping on drafty doors and windows.
Check attic insulation and ventilation.
Wrap young trees in burlap if not already done.
Why October is the Month to Winterize
By mid-October, chilly nights are the norm in the Hudson Valley, and the first frost isn’t far off. This is the last window to protect outdoor plumbing, improve energy efficiency, and finish tree and garden prep before winter locks everything down
Outdoor Tasks
1. Drain & Store Garden Hoses
Once the garden is done growing, disconnect hoses and drain them completely. Leaving water inside can cause splitting when temps drop.
Pro Tip: Store hoses coiled in a bin or hung on a reel to extend their life.
Available at Page Lumber: Storage bins.
2. Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Cover exterior spigots with insulated faucet covers or shut off the interior valve if available. This prevents frozen pipes and costly repairs.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to disconnect hoses before covering the faucet.
Available at Page Lumber: Faucet covers.
3. Wrap Young Trees if You Haven’t Yet
If September slipped by, wrap young or newly planted trees in breathable burlap now. Protection against sunscald and wildlife is most effective when done before the first frost.
Pro Tip: Secure loosely from the base up to the lowest branches — too tight can trap moisture.
Available at Page Lumber: Burlap, chicken wire.
Indoor Tasks
4. Install Weatherstripping on Doors & Windows
Check for drafts and seal them up. Weatherstripping keeps warm air in and heating costs down.
Pro Tip: Use adhesive-backed strips for quick fixes, or upgrade to full door sweeps where needed.
Available at Page Lumber: Weatherstripping kits.
5. Check Attic Insulation & Ventilation
Proper insulation keeps heat in, while ventilation reduces moisture buildup and helps prevent ice dams later.
Pro Tip: If you can see the tops of joists, you likely need more insulation.
October FAQ
Q: When should I drain hoses in the Hudson Valley?
A: Drain and store them as soon as nighttime temps consistently dip into the 40s — usually mid to late October.
Q: Do I need to wrap trees every year?
A: Wrap newly planted and young trees for the first few winters until bark thickens. Older, established trees are usually fine unwrapped.
Q: Can I add insulation myself?
A: Yes, but be sure to maintain proper airflow — blocked vents can cause moisture problems.
Start Your Fall Prep at Page Lumber
From wood pellets and ice melt to storage bins and chicken wire for landscape protection, we have the supplies you need to get your home ready for Hudson Valley’s cold season.
Stop by this month and check winter prep off your to-do list.