Preparing your home or cottage for winter is essential to keep it safe, warm, and energy-efficient as the colder months approach. Proper winter maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, protect your property from harsh weather, and ensure your family stays comfortable all season long. Follow these nine keys winter cottage tips to get ready for the season:
- Seal windows and doors
Drafty windows and doors can cause significant heat loss, making your heating system work harder. If replacing windows isn’t in your budget, weather stripping, foam, felt, or caulking can seal leaks and prevent cold air from entering your home. Sealing these areas is a great way to protect your home or cottage from winter's chill.
- Add heavy-duty drapes
Installing heavy-duty curtains or thermal drapes is an easy and affordable way to prevent heat from escaping through windows. Drapes can act as an additional barrier, helping to maintain warmth and reduce energy costs.
- Roof and gutter maintenance
Inspect your roof for any damage and clean your gutters to avoid ice buildup. Snow removal from your cottage roof is critical to prevent structural damage and ice dams, which can lead to water leaks and costly repairs. Gutter cleaning is also essential to prevent blockages that could lead to ice dams and water damage.
- Prepare the garden
Winterize your home’s exterior by cleaning up the garden and pruning trees. Check for loose or damaged branches that could break under the weight of snow, potentially damaging your home or surrounding structures.
- Protect outdoor plumbing
Shut off exterior faucets and drain hoses to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Store hoses indoors to prevent cracking from the cold temperatures.
- Store outdoor furniture
Pack away tools, patio furniture, and outdoor fixtures such as lights that may not hold up in freezing temperatures. Protecting these items from the elements ensures they remain in good condition for use next season.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. These safety measures are important during the winter when homes are more likely to use heating systems and fireplaces.
- Sweep or insulate the chimney
If you use wood to heat your home, sweep the chimney to minimize the risk of a chimney fire. For those who don’t use their fireplace, insulating it helps prevent warm air from escaping. This simple step can also help lower heating costs.
- Inspect your furnace or boiler
Winter cottage tips wouldn’t be complete without checking your furnace or boiler. Regular inspections ensure your heating system is functioning efficiently and safely. An annual inspection can also catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Following these winter cottage tips can help you prepare your home or cottage for the colder months ahead. Snow removal from your cottage roof, sealing drafts, and inspecting your heating system are just some of the steps to protect your property from winter's challenges. For added protection, consider looking into cottage insurance too. Whether you’re winterizing your full-time home or seasonal cottage, these simple steps will help you enjoy a warm, safe, and comfortable winter.
Sources:
Insurance Bureau of Canada: Winterize your home
