It’s that time of year again – the leaves are changing colour, the air is getting cooler, and your cottage is calling you to come up for the season. Before you know it, winter will be here, and it’s important to take the necessary steps to close up your cottage properly. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to close up your cottage for the winter. From putting away your patio furniture to draining your pipes, we’ve got you covered. Read on for tips on how to winterize your cottage properly and keep it in good condition all season long!
Shut Off The Water
One of the most important steps in winterizing your cottage is to shut off the water. This includes turning off the main water supply to your cottage, as well as any outdoor faucets or hose bibs. If you have an irrigation system, be sure to drain it completely and disconnect it from the water supply.
Drain Your Pipes
Once the water is turned off, you’ll need to drain all of the remaining water from your pipes. To do this, open all of your faucets and flush all toilets until they’re empty. Then, turn on your outside faucets and let them run until they sputter and stop – this will help ensure that any remaining water in the lines is drained out.
Unplug Every Electrical Appliance
Another important step in winterizing your cottage is to unplug every electrical appliance, including your fridge, stove, microwave, and coffee maker. Once they’re unplugged, be sure to clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help keep them in good condition and prevent any potential problems when you plug them back in next season.
Clean Your Furniture
Now that everything is turned off and unplugged, it’s time to start cleaning! Begin by dusting and vacuuming all of your furniture, both inside and out. If you have any upholstered furniture, be sure to vacuum or spot-clean it as well. Once everything is clean, put away any outdoor furniture or patio cushions that you won’t be using.
Cover Your Windows
To help keep your cottage warm and toasty all winter long, it’s important to cover your windows. You can do this by hanging insulated curtains or blinds or by attaching bubble wrap or foam board to the inside of your windows. This will help keep out the cold drafts and prevent your heating bills from going through the roof!
Clean Out Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, now is the time to give it a good cleaning. Start by removing any ashes or debris that may have built up over the summer. Then, use a chimney brush to scrub the inside of your fireplace and remove any soot or creosote. Once it’s clean, be sure to cover the opening with a screen or piece of plywood to keep critters out.
Remove Valuables
If you have any valuables at your cottage, it’s important to remove them before winter sets in. This includes things like jewelry, electronics, and important documents. Store them in a safe place where they won’t be damaged by the cold or moisture.
Prepare Your Heating System
Now that your cottage is all clean and ready for winter, it’s time to prepare your heating system. If you have a furnace, be sure to have it serviced by a professional before turning it on for the season. This will help ensure that it’s running properly and won’t break down when you need it most.
Make Sure You Have A Good Insurance Policy
Last but not least, it’s important to make sure you have a good insurance policy in place for your cottage while you’re away. This will help protect your cottage and belongings in case of any unforeseen problems, such as a broken pipe or a severe storm. Be sure to review your policy or talk to your insurance broker if you are unsure about what is covered.
Another thing to make sure is protected is any recreational vehicles you are keeping there over the winter. If you have a boat, ATV, snowmobile, or another recreational vehicle, be sure to have a recreational insurance policy in place. This will help cover any damages that may occur while the vehicle is in storage.
With this helpful guide, you’re now ready to close up your cottage for the winter. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your cottage will be safe and sound all season long. And when spring comes, it will be ready and waiting for you to come back and enjoy!
If you are in need of recreational insurance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Will Marshall Insurance Brokers. We have a team of experienced and knowledgeable brokers who can help you find the right policy for your needs. Contact us today to get started.