October 9th, 2007
Tips for closing the cottage
For seasonal cottagers, the arrival of fall usually means it’s time to close up the getaway for the season. Depending on the type of cottage or “summerhome” you have, the amount of fall maintenance will vary. However, there are some basic things that all cottagers need to be concerned with such as water, electricity and security as well as preventing any damage that could be caused by ice, snow, animals and vandals.
To help you with the task of securing your cottage for the winter months, the Ontario Real Estate Association and your local Realtor offer the following tips.
Before you start, you’re best to take a few minutes to plan what needs to be done. For example, what needs to be repaired or replaced now, and what can hold off until next spring? How much time will you need to shut everything down?
You can use the following basic checklist to help you close your cottage and you may want to add to it depending on your situation:
* For most cottage owners, the two most important considerations when shutting down the “great escape” for winter are avoiding damage and vandalism. Some people secure their cottages like a vault for the season, while others prefer to leave the place unlocked to prevent damage on forced entry. Regardless of which method you choose, it’s a good idea to leave a note on the front door giving a phone number where you can be reached in case of any incidents.
* Some people choose to shut off electricity to their cottage in the off-season by throwing the main switch at the fuse box. If you do this, be sure to turn off all major appliances, your water heater, and electrical room heaters before you turn off the main switch. This will ensure a smoother and safer start-up when you re-open your cottage.
* If you leave your electricity on to operate security systems or lighting, you should:Turn off the power supply to your major appliances at your main panel. Turn off the power supply to any space heaters. Otherwise they may turn on during cold weather.
* Decide what can stay and what must come home with you.
* Hide away or remove any sharp items such as knives, axes, saws, or crowbars that could be used by vandals.
* Remove any valuables such as stereos or televisions.
* Drain your water system completely. Draining the system involves emptying and cleaning all the pipes, valves, tanks and pumps. Put some antifreeze in the toilet bowl in case all the water isn’t drained. Turn off the power to your hot water heater before draining.
* Clean everything out of your fridge and leave the door open to avoid odours next season.
* Remove any canned goods that could freeze and take home any food or edibles in your cupboards.
* Store blankets, pillows and any other non-perishables in metal containers to keep mice from eating them.
* Cover your windows with plywood if possible to protect them from birds, falling branches and other items.
* Place a cap on the chimney to keep out birds and small animals as well as rain and snow.
* If your cottage is in an area that gets heavy snow, consider hiring a reliable local person to shovel off the roof when necessary or look at installing temporary roof supports.
* Drain boat and lawnmower motors and store in a dry, weather-proof place. Coat anything that may rust over the winter with oil.
* Check with your local cottager’s association to see if they have a “cottage-watch” program or consider hiring a local person to take care of your property for the winter.
Some careful planning and effort now will ensure a safe and pleasant cottage opening next spring.
Printed in The Brampton Guardian on Friday October 5 2007