Ways to getting your cabin ready for winter!

Even though we’ve had it pretty so far this fall, old man winter is coming. And it’s almost time to close up the cottage and say “goodbye” until next spring. Check these 10 steps off your list to prepare to leave your home-away-from-home for the season:

Inspect your septic tank. If your cottage has a septic tank, be careful to follow the manufacturer’s guide book. If your system is due for an inspection, call in a professional to make sure it’s functioning properly before you close up to avoid any problems in the spring.

Keep the sump pump, pumping. If your cottage has a sump pump, make sure it stays in good working order all winter long, or you could experience flooding when the snow starts to melt.

Drain your pipes, turn off your water supply and drain your pipes. Drain all water containers to prevent them from freezing or bursting.

Clean your gutters. Clogged up gutters can cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to a leaky roof. Clean out your gutters so rain and melting snow can flow free.

Inspect your roof. Snow buildup over the winter can cause roofs to leak or even cave in, so replace broken or missing shingles before the winter weather sets in.

Keep pesky pests outdoors. And don’t let them make their way into your cottage. If you have a chimney, use a chimney cap. Check that there is no other possible ways little critters can get in.

Unplug major appliances. While it might not be a good idea to turn off your entire power supply especially if you have a sub pump or alarm system. Try unplugging larger appliances or turning off the power to appliances that can help prevent electrical fires and other issues.

Turn the heating down (or off). If your cottage has a furnace, consider setting the thermostat to around 10°C to prevent frost build-up, or turn it off entirely to save energy, but only if you’ve properly prepared your pipes from freezing.

Get rid of fire hazards. Pack up and remove loose paper products like books and newspapers, old rags, chemicals, and other items that could easily catch or spread fire.

Clean out the fridge and cupboards. Food can attract insects and small animals. When you’re ready to call it a season, pack up all food and take it home with you.

Comments

Understanding Black Mold and Condensation Issues in Houses

As the summer heat sets in, many homeowners find themselves dealing with a hidden adversary: black mold. While it’s often associated with damp, dark conditions, black mold can thrive in warm, humid environments, making summer a prime season for its growth. Let’s explore how condensation contributes to this issue and what you can do to prevent mold problems in your home. The Science of Condensation Condensation occurs when warm, humid air comes into contact with cooler surfaces, causing moisture to form. This is particularly common in the summer when the outside temperature is high, but the inside of your house may be cooler due to air conditioning. Common areas where condensation accumulates include: Windows : The temperature difference between the outside air and the glass can lead to moisture forming on the surface. Walls and Ceilings : Poorly insulated walls may cool down significantly, allowing condensation to form on them. Bathrooms and Kitchens : Areas that generate steam from s...

Common places for moisture - in the Attic, Basement and Crawl space

Moisture is a pervasive problem that can wreak havoc on your home if not addressed promptly. It can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and a host of health issues. Three of the most common areas where moisture problems often arise are the attic, basement, and crawl space. Understanding the causes and solutions for moisture in these areas can help you maintain a healthy and safe home environment. The Attic Causes of Moisture in the Attic Roof Leaks: One of the most common causes of moisture in the attic is a leaky roof. Damaged shingles, flashing, or vents can allow water to seep in during rainstorms. Poor Ventilation: Attics require proper ventilation to expel warm, moist air. Without adequate ventilation, moisture can accumulate, especially in colder months when warm air from the living space rises. Improper Insulation: Insufficient or improperly installed insulation can lead to condensation. When warm air from the house meets the cold surfaces of the attic, it can create mois...

How Fire and Smoke Affect Air Quality: Understanding the Impact

Fires, whether wildfires, controlled burns, or residential incidents, have a profound impact on air quality. The smoke produced by these fires contains a complex mixture of gases and fine particles that pose significant health risks. Understanding how fire and smoke affect air quality is crucial for both public health and environmental management. This blog post delves into the components of smoke, the effects on air quality, and the measures one can take to mitigate these impacts. Components of Smoke and Their Impact on Air Quality Smoke is composed of a variety of pollutants, each with specific properties and effects: Particulate Matter (PM) : Fine Particles (PM2.5) : These particles are smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter and can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. PM2.5 is particularly harmful as it can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Coarse Particles (PM10) : Larger particles that can still cause respiratory problems but are genera...

Search This Blog