November Homeowner Checklist

Last Prep Before Winter

Quick List

  • Store salt and ice melt in covered containers.

  • Cover or move outdoor furniture and planters.

  • Add mulch around shrubs and trees.

  • Double-check weather seals and heating supplies.

  • Test safety devices indoors.

Your Final Weekend Projects Before the Snow Arrives

By November, the Hudson Valley has already felt its first frost, and the ground is starting to harden. This is your final window to tidy up, insulate, and organize before snow and freezing temperatures settle in. A few finishing touches now can save a lot of work — and repairs — once winter fully arrives.


Outdoor Tasks

1. Store Salt & Ice Melt

Keep salt and ice melt in covered, dry bins to prevent clumping and make it easy to scoop when snow starts falling.
Pro Tip: Label bins clearly and store them near entrances for easy access.
Available at Page Lumber: Ice melt, storage bins.

2. Cover Outdoor Items

Clean and dry outdoor furniture, cushions, and planters before covering or storing them indoors. Moisture left behind can freeze and cause cracking or mildew.
Pro Tip: Stack cushions loosely and add a moisture absorber to prevent musty smells.
Available at Page Lumber: Storage bins, protective tarps.


3. Mulch & Protect Plants

Add a 2–3-inch layer of mulch around trees and shrubs to insulate roots and trap residual warmth in the soil.
Pro Tip: Apply mulch after the first frost but before the ground freezes. For shrubs, use burlap or fencing to protect from wind and deer.
Available at Page Lumber: Mulch, burlap.


Indoor Tasks

1. Seal & Stock

Inspect weatherstripping and door sweeps, and replace any worn areas. Check your heating supply or pellet stock before the first snowstorm hits.
Available at Page Lumber: Weatherstripping kits, wood pellets.

2. Check Safety Devices

Test smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries, and make sure fire extinguishers are up to date.
Pro Tip: If you use a pellet stove, clean filters and vents before the holiday season.

November FAQ

Q: Is it too late to mulch in November?
A: Not at all — as long as the soil isn’t frozen, it’s a great time to mulch and protect your plants.

Q: Can I leave outdoor furniture uncovered?
A: It’s best to cover or store it. Freezing temps can cause cracking and rust.

Q: How often should I check weather seals?
A: Every fall — temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract, creating new gaps.

Winter-Ready Starts Here

From mulch and burlap to ice melt, storage bins, and weatherstripping kits, Page Lumber has what you need to finish your fall prep before the snow arrives.

Stop in this month and get your home winter-ready before the holidays.

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Homeowner October Checklist