How do you winterize a cabin?

As the weather cools and snow starts to fall, you may visit your cabin less often. Even if this isn’t the case, you’ll want to prepare your “home away from home” for the next season. You have to winterize your cabin to ensure it’s comfortable when you return. If you leave it as is, you’re taking plenty of risks, which, frankly, aren’t worth it.

The last thing you want is to come back to your cabin and make a bunch of repairs. After all, winterization is a part of basic maintenance. By ignoring crucial steps now, you’ll have to pay for them later. Are you ready for winter? Let’s warm things up with our guide to winterizing cabins.

Tips for winterizing your cabin

As winter approaches, there are several steps you can take to keep your cottage safe from the cold. You will have to do a lot, including cleaning out your cabin and ensuring your plumbing system will last when you aren’t using it as frequently. This is especially true if you won’t be visiting your cottage for the winter. Let’s discuss ways you can winterize your cabin below:

Winterize cabin plumbing

The plumbing system is the backbone of any home, including cabins and cottages. That’s why you should ensure your water lines are prepared for the winter season. Here’s how you can ensure your water pipes remain functioning whether you visit your cabin in the winter or not:

Turn off your water supply lines

If you aren’t visiting your cabin during the winter, consider turning off your water. This process is fairly simple. If you have well water, you can shut off the main water supply by disconnecting your pump. If you use lake water, take any equipment out of the water and bring it inside for the winter.

Let water water run out of taps

Start at the highest point of your cottage and work your way down to the lowest faucet. The faucets should remain open during the winter to prevent pressure from building up in the pipes. This will prevent any water left behind from freezing.

Empty toilets

You should drain all the water from your toilets. Remove the tank cover and hold the flapper open until all the water drains out of the toilet. If any water is still in the tank or bowl, consider using a shop vacuum.

Get the remaining water out of the lines with an air compressor

Start by connecting the air compressor to the lowest faucet in the house, which will assist with blowing any remaining water out of the pipes. Also, remember to run any appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and ice makers. Any and all exposed water supply lines should be empty.

Drain the water out of the pressure tank and boiler

The pressure and hot water tanks should not have any water left in them during the winter season. The air compressor can help get any remaining water out of the line that connects the pump to the cottage.

Use antifreeze

Even after you flush the water out of everywhere you can think, water can still linger. P-traps below sinks, tubs, and toilets are the most common culprits. Pour a cup of antifreeze into each drain to ensure any water left in the lines doesn’t freeze. You should also pour antifreeze into the supply lines.

Winterize water heater

How you winterize your water heater comes down to the type you have. If you have an electric water heater, you should leave it running if you intend to keep the electricity on. The temperature should be at its lowest setting, and the water inlet and outlet valves should be closed. There’s also the option of turning off your water heater.

Wait for the water to cool before doing so if you have a gas water heater. Close the water inlet valve and start draining the tank. When the tank seems empty, turn the faucet off and leave the drain valve open a bit to let any remaining water get out.

Empty your fridge

Take any perishable items out of your fridge and freezer. Expired food in your fridge can create a nasty scent any time of year, so you should clean out your kitchen before leaving your cabin for the winter.

Take a look at your roof

Clean your eavestroughs and downspouts and inspect your roof. Your downspouts should be down to let water drain away from your home. By taking this preventative measure, you reduce the risk of water damage in the winter that can happen due to ice jams and leaks. If you're planning a winter visit to your cottage or cabin, follow these tips to ensure your roof is prepared:

Examine the roof exterior

You should start by inspecting the exterior roof. Look for signs of structural damage, chimney cracks, standing water and loose shingles. Get these things fixed before the winter so you don’t have to worry about your roof collapsing.

Look at the roof interior

Your roof should be winter-proof. If you notice drywall cracks where the ceiling meets the wall, you should be worried. Additionally, water stains and mould on the walls are red flags. However, you should get an inspection if there is sagging between the ceiling joists.

Make snow removal arrangements ahead of time

If you don’t live close to your vacation home, make arrangements for snow removal. Find someone who can remove snow from the driveway and roof. This will allow easy access to your property during the winter, whether you visit or not. It will also prevent the roof from getting damaged by a heavy snow load.

Keep your wood stove and fireplace clean

Your wood stove and fireplace should always be clean. This is especially true in the winter when you don’t visit your cabin as often. Always dispose of any coals and ashes safely. This will reduce the risk of fire and save you from returning to a big mess when winter ends. You can still do this regularly if you visit your cabin and need something to keep you warm this winter. For additional information, check out our fireplace safety tips for a Canadian winter.

Check the oil tank

Some people use an oil tank in their cottages. You should get it inspected before you leave your cabin when the weather cools down. It will give you peace of mind, as leaks are less likely to develop during the winter season.

Secure doors and windows

Before you leave, make sure the doors and windows of your cabin are secure. No valuables should be visible from the outside. Safely store all belongings, such as your boat and outdoor furniture, to protect them from the harsh winter elements.

Have someone check on your cabin

Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check on your home while you are away. Ensure you have the contact information of the person checking on your cabin in case of an emergency. If your home is insured as a seasonal property, have it checked regularly. If the property is considered a second home, have it checked every 24 hours while you are away.

If you’re living there part-time, be ready for the occasional power outage. Get in touch with your insurance provider to clarify which coverage applies to you and how often your property needs to be checked according to your policy.

Look out for trees

See if there are any weak trees close to your cottage or cabin. If you find any, have them professionally removed before winter arrives. If you leave them be, you risk a tree falling on your property during the winter months. This is a great way to prevent home insurance claims.

Reach out to your insurance broker

Get in touch with your insurance broker before winter comes. Your broker will be able to tell you the coverage you have and what’s required to maintain it. If you don’t review your insurance requirements, you risk invalidating your policy.

From protecting your water pipes to ensuring there aren’t any fire hazards, there are many steps to take to ensure your cabin is winter-ready. However, not everyone is knowledgeable about complex aspects such as pipe insulation and plumbing systems.

That’s why you should call a professional to help you winterize your cabin. Whether you visit in the winter or not, the necessary preparations will give you the peace of mind you need to keep your cottage in top shape year-round. Review our winter home checklist to learn more.

Contact BrokerLink to insure your cabin today!

Did you know there’s more than one type of home insurance? Certain policies are great if you own a cottage or vacation home. If you paid a lot for your second home, consider high-value home insurance. Having coverage will give you peace of mind because damages will be paid for if something happens while you are away. Just remember to check the conditions of your policy to ensure you are meeting the requirements.

Are you looking for insurance coverage for your cabin? You’ll need a reliable broker who can recommend an insurance company with a policy that suits your budget and needs. Bundle up this winter by contacting BrokerLink today.

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