As the crisp fall air settles over Temiskaming Shores, it’s time to start thinking about closing your cottage for the winter season. Whether your getaway is nestled by the shores of Lake Temiskaming or tucked in the nearby forest, winterizing your property is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure it’s ready to welcome you back in the spring. Follow this comprehensive guide to safely close your cottage for winter and protect it from the harsh Northern Ontario winter weather.

1. Inspect and Prepare the Exterior

Before the snow falls, it’s important to make sure the outside of your cottage is ready to withstand the cold months.

• Clean the gutters: Remove any leaves, twigs, or debris that could lead to water pooling and freezing, which can damage your gutters or cause ice dams.
• Check the roof: Inspect for any missing or damaged shingles, as a small leak could become a major issue once snow accumulates.
• Trim overhanging branches: Heavy snow or ice can cause weak branches to snap and damage your roof, windows, or deck.
• Secure outdoor furniture: Bring in or securely cover patio furniture, BBQs, and any outdoor equipment that could be damaged by snow or blown away by strong winter winds.

2. Winterize Your Plumbing

Northern Ontario winters are unforgiving, and frozen pipes are one of the most common issues faced by cottage owners. Here’s how to prevent that:

• Drain all water systems: Shut off the main water supply and drain the pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Don’t forget to drain sinks, toilets, and hot water tanks.
• Use antifreeze: Pour non-toxic RV antifreeze into your sinks, toilet bowls, and drains to protect against any residual water freezing.
• Shut off and drain appliances: Disconnect any hoses, shut off appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, and drain them completely.

3. Protect Against Pests

As the temperatures drop, mice and other critters will be looking for a warm place to call home. Keep them out of your cottage with these tips:

• Seal any openings: Inspect the exterior of your cottage and seal any gaps or cracks, especially around doors, windows, and utility lines. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime!
• Remove food: Take all perishable food items with you and store any remaining non-perishable items in airtight containers.
• Set traps: As an extra precaution, place mouse traps around common entry points, such as basements and attics.

4. Prepare the Interior

Taking care of the interior of your cottage is just as important as the exterior. Focus on these areas to ensure everything remains in good condition during the winter:

• Unplug electronics: To prevent damage from power surges and to reduce fire risk, unplug all electronic devices. This also conserves energy if you plan to leave the power on.
• Clean thoroughly: Remove any garbage, vacuum thoroughly, and clean out your refrigerator to avoid unpleasant smells or attracting pests.
• Protect your furnishings: Cover your furniture with sheets or blankets to prevent dust buildup, and consider placing moisture absorbers around the cottage to prevent mold or mildew from developing.

5. Security Measures

With your cottage sitting vacant for several months, it’s important to take extra steps to secure your property:

• Install security cameras or motion-activated lights: These can help deter potential intruders and allow you to keep an eye on your property remotely.
• Lock all windows and doors: Double-check all entry points, including basement windows and sliding doors, to ensure they are locked and secure.
• Alert a neighbor or local caretaker: If possible, ask a year-round resident or a local caretaker to keep an eye on your property. They can check in periodically to ensure everything is in good condition.

6. Turn Down the Heat

If you plan to keep the power running, set the thermostat to a low but safe temperature (around 10°C) to prevent pipes from freezing without wasting energy. If you’re shutting off the heat completely, make sure all water systems are fully drained and insulated.

7. Consider Insurance and Documentation

Make sure your cottage insurance is up to date and covers potential winter hazards, such as frozen pipes, snow load, or break-ins. Document your cottage’s condition with photos before closing it for the season, just in case you need to file a claim.

8. Plan for Snow Removal

While you might not be around to shovel, snow buildup can still cause issues if it’s not managed. Heavy snow can damage roofs, decks, and other structures. Arrange for a local service to clear the snow off your roof if necessary or check in periodically to remove any excessive accumulation.

Final Thoughts

Properly closing your cottage for winter is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth opening in the spring. The steps outlined in this guide will help you prepare your Temiskaming Shores cottage to withstand the cold, snow, and ice that Northern Ontario winters bring.

By dedicating a weekend to winterize your property, you’ll save yourself from potential headaches and costly repairs down the road. So, take the time now to secure your cottage and look forward to enjoying it again when the snow melts and the lakes thaw!