Some tips for closing up the cottage for the season

Unfortunately, it’s time to say goodbye to cottage season for the year. As autumn sets in and winter comes ever closer, it’s important to prepare your seasonal property for the upcoming months. Closing up the cottage can feel like a lengthy and boring process, but sadly it must be done! To help you through this experience, here are some tips that will make it much easier to get this dirty work done.

Don’t rush the process

Closing up the cottage is nobody’s idea of fun. However, this isn’t a process you should run through as fast as you can! There is lots of work to do, and you need to give yourself the appropriate amount of time to complete everything on your checklist. At the very least, this kind of process is a day-long affair. Many cottage owners need to spend multiple days prepping their property for winter. Before you get to work on your planned tasks, take a good walk around the cottage to see if there are other issues that need attention during closing time. For example, busted furniture, loose shingles, or broken windows might be an unexpected task to manage. These are the types of things you might not notice during a quick run-through, which could have disastrous results come spring time.

Unplug major energy drainers

Our appliances keep our cottage functioning during the summer months, but we don’t have much use for them when we’re closing up. Our stoves, fridges, and freezers can take a well-deserved break for the season! These appliances suck up a ton of energy when they’re in use, and there’s no reason for you to be paying extra hefty electricity bills. Remove all food items from your fridge and freezer (you can make a creative meal with them if you don’t want them to go to waste). Be sure not to leave anything inside before you unplug these appliances and leave them for the winter! 

On a similar note, closing up the cottage probably means you are safe to turn off the heating as well. This is another big expense you can save this time of year. Once you are done packing things up and don’t need the heat anymore, you can feel free to lower it or shut it off completely. 

Turn off the water

Shutting off the water at your cottage can be a real lifesaver. During the winter, pipes can freeze and expand, and sometimes they burst. If there is water in those pipes, this is a recipe for disaster. The worst part is you won’t be there until the damage has already been done, which can result in major repair costs. Be sure to turn off any outdoor water sources, much like you would at your regular house. If you decide to turn off the heat in your cottage, you should also turn off indoor water sources. 

Protect against pests

Cottage country can be a perfect playground for wild animals, big and small. You don’t want to come back to your cottage in the spring to find a family of mice has moved in, or worse, that something has attracted raccoons or bears to come explore. If you have any cracks around your cottage that could allow little critters to enter, seal them up to block their path. Be sure not to leave any doors or windows open, either, as this is an invitation for all animals to make themselves at home. Finally, it’s important to take out all the garbage and not leave any food behind. Larger animals will sniff this out and come visit!

Do a deep clean

Finally, closing up the cottage is the perfect opportunity to give it a good clean. While you are already organizing and tidying, you may as well ensure everything is in a clean condition for the winter. This will limit the attention your cottage will get from wild creatures. It will also prevent unpleasant buildups of mould or mildew. Plus, it feels good to leave your cottage in a nice state, knowing that when you return, you know what to expect. This will also make the process of opening the cottage in the spring much easier and shorter!

Closing up the cottage isn’t necessarily a joyful event. However, when done properly, it ensures your cottage will be in the best condition when you return! Plus, there is still so much to look forward to as we close out the year. Take some time to enjoy the fall season and the upcoming holidays!

If you have any questions about your mortgage, get in touch with us at Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team! You can call us at (902) 482-2770 or contact us here.