How to Prepare Your Cottage for the Off-Season
As the crisp autumn air rolls in, it's time for cottage owners in Ontario to think about preparing their getaway for the off-season. Properly winterizing your cottage is crucial to protect your secondary home from the harsh elements of winter, and it can save you time and money when the next cottage season arrives.
At TG Group, we understand the importance of safeguarding your seasonal property, so we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your cottage for the colder months.
1. Water System Shut Down
One of the most critical steps in winterizing your cottage is properly shutting down the water system. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to extensive water damage. Here's what you need to do:
Drain the Pipes: Start by turning off the main water supply. Open all taps, including outdoor faucets, and allow them to drain completely. Don't forget to drain any water lines connected to appliances like dishwashers or washing machines.
Empty the Water Heater: Drain and disconnect the water heater to prevent any residual water from freezing and causing damage.
Consider Anti-Freeze: Pour non-toxic anti-freeze into toilets, sinks, and shower drains to prevent any remaining water from freezing.
2. Secure the Exterior
Your cottage's exterior will bear the brunt of the winter weather. To minimize potential damage:
Inspect the Roof: Check for any loose shingles or potential leaks and repair them before the first snowfall.
Clean the Gutters: Clear leaves and debris from gutters to prevent ice dams, which can lead to water infiltration.
Seal Windows and Doors: Apply weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to keep out drafts and prevent water from seeping in.
Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and store patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor equipment in a secure location to protect them from the elements.
3. Interior Preparations
Protecting the inside of your cottage is just as important as safeguarding the outside. Here's how:
Temperature Control: If you plan to visit your cottage occasionally during the winter, set the thermostat to a low but safe temperature (around 12-15°C) to prevent freezing pipes. If the cottage will be unoccupied for the entire winter, consider shutting off the heating system entirely after draining the water lines.
Pest Prevention: Remove any food items and clean thoroughly to avoid attracting pests. Seal any gaps or cracks that could serve as entry points for rodents.
Unplug Appliances: Unplug all appliances, including the fridge, to protect them from power surges and reduce energy consumption.
Secure Valuables: If you have valuable items in your cottage, consider bringing them home for the winter or locking them in a secure place within the cottage.
4. Safety and Security
Ensure your cottage is safe and secure throughout the off-season:
Alarm Systems: If you have an alarm system, notify your security company that the cottage will be vacant for an extended period. Consider installing security cameras that you can monitor remotely.
Check Insurance Coverage: Review your cottage insurance policy with TG Group to ensure you have adequate coverage for potential winter-related damages. This could include protection against water damage, theft, and other increased risks during the off-season.
Arrange for Check-Ins: If possible, ask a neighbour or hire a local caretaker to periodically check on your cottage during the winter months to catch any issues early.
5. Plan for Spring
While preparing your cottage for the off-season, take note of any repairs or maintenance that will be needed in the spring. This proactive approach will help you get a head start when the warmer weather returns. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your cottage will be well-protected throughout Ontario's harsh winter months.
At TG Group, commercial insurance may be our "specialty," but it's not all we offer. We provide comprehensive insurance policies for homes, cottages, vehicles and recreational units. If you're also a commercial insurance client, we will build customized insurance packages for your businesses to ensure you receive the best pricing when we quote your personal items.
Contact us today at 519-370-2006 or info@tg-group.ca to learn more about our cottage insurance coverage or get a free quote. You can also visit our Personal Insurance page for more details.
