Closing Up Your PEI Cottage for the Winter

Living on PEI comes with many perks, but perhaps the greatest perk of all is cottage life. It’s all about soaking up the simple pleasures that sometimes get neglected in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Gathering with friends for bonfires and board games. Enjoying a feed of PEI shellfish. Taking a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, then sauntering back to your cottage deck to sunbathe…

And then, like all good things, it must come to an end. Or, more accurately, a winter-long pause. 

Closing up the cottage isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun, but it’s one of those tasks that gives you a deep sense of satisfaction once it’s done.  You can rest easy through the winter knowing your beloved cottage is safely ‘tucked in’ and waiting for your return next spring.

To make the task just a little bit easier, we’ve put together our best tips for closing up your seasonal cottage. From protecting against storms to deterring theft and preventing a fire, these simple steps will give you peace of mind all winter long!

Shut Off the Water and Plumbing

Bursting water pipes, caused by water freezing and expanding in the pipes, are a nightmare. They can cause serious damage to your cottage and the cost of plumbing repairs could eat into your ‘summer fun savings’.

The good news is that it’s easy to prevent this situation by shutting off the water and plumbing systems at your cottage before the temperatures dip. We highly recommend hiring a professional plumber to take care of these important steps, but if you want to do it yourself, here are the main steps involved:

• Turn off the main water supply and drain all pipes, toilets, and hot water tanks.
• Disconnect hoses and outdoor taps.
• Leave faucets open to allow any remaining water to escape.
• Pour non-toxic antifreeze into drains and toilets to prevent freezing in traps.
• Turn off the water pump (unless you have a winterized well system) 

Weather-Proof Your Cottage

Winter on PEI has two modes: gentle and wild. And you never know what the next day will bring – it could be a softly falling snow or a raging nor’easter. That’s why it’s essential that you prepare your cottage for the worst possible winter weather.  Follow these steps to storm-proof your seasonal property:

• Clean gutters and downspouts so melting snow and ice can drain properly.
• Inspect your roof for loose shingles or flashing and fix any issues before winter shows up. 
• Trim branches that could fall on the roof or power lines during high winds.
• Store your outdoor items (e.g. deck furniture, barbecues, trampolines, planters) inside the cottage or your outbuilding.
• Remove or raise docks and ramps to protect them from ice damage and shifting tides.

 

Protect Against Theft

You might like to imagine cottage theft isn’t a concern here on PEI, but the truth is that it does happen. While the risk may be on the lower side, it’s still worthwhile to take these key theft-protection measures: 

• Remove valuables such as electronics, tools, and alcohol
• Consider installing motion-sensor lights and/or a security camera system (many can operate on mobile networks).
• Reinforce sliding doors with a security bar and ensure all windows and entry points are locked.
• If there are year-round neighbours in the area, ask them to check in occasionally. Otherwise, make a plan to visit your cottage from time to time if possible

 
Avoid a Pesty Situation

PEI wildlife, especially rodents and racoons, can wreak havoc on your cottage while it’s left unattended. The easiest prevention is to remove any opportunities for infiltration and any temptations (aka food!).  Take the following precautions and you’ll likely keep the pests at bay:

• Store linens and paper goods in sealed bins.
• Seal entry points around the foundation, vents, and eaves
• Remove all food (don’t forget the freezer and pantry!) and clean appliances thoroughly
• Hang fresh fly traps, remove old ones.

Power Down for the Winter

Most cottage owners on PEI choose to disconnect their electricity for the winter. This helps reduce the risk of fire or electrical issues occurring. So, as you tuck your cottage into for the winter, take these steps to ensure you’re powered down:

• Unplug all appliances and electronics, including fridges, stoves, microwaves, and heat pumps, before cutting power. This will protect them from surges when the power is turned back on in the spring.
• Turn off the main power supply at the breaker panel. 
• Clean the fridge and freezer thoroughly, and leave doors propped open to prevent odours and mould from developing. 
• Check for exposed wiring or damaged cords and have any issues repaired.
• If your cottage uses solar power or battery backup systems, check the manufacturer’s instructions for safe seasonal shutdown and storage.

Protect Outbuildings, Boats and Other Valuable Property

Besides your cottage itself, you’ll want to make sure other valuable property at your seasonal residence is protected against damage or theft.  Here are some tips to keep them and your entire property safe: 

• Winterize boats, motors, and ATVs and store them securely indoors if possible.
• Lock sheds and garages; be sure to remove any fuel or flammable materials.
• Make sure propane tanks are turned off and stored safely outdoors, away from any buildings.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

It’s a good idea to review your insurance coverage regularly. Make time while you’re closing up your cottage to review your seasonal property insurance coverage.

• Review your seasonal property insurance to confirm coverage while the cottage is vacant. 
• Take photos or video of the property before closing up to document its condition.

Do a Final Walkthrough

Before your lock up for the final time this year, do a final walkthrough of your cottage to ensure you haven’t missed any important closing tasks. Here’s a checklist to help make it a breeze:

• Water off and plumbing drained
• Main power turned off
• Roof inspected
• Appliances unplugged and cleaned
• All food removed 
• All doors and windows locked, including outbuildings
• Outdoor furniture stored or secured
• Docks removed or anchored
• Valuables taken home
• Insurance coverage confirmed

Happy Hibernating

We’re so lucky to live on a four-season island. While you may find yourself feeling a little melancholy for those warm PEI summer days as you close up the cottage, take heart knowing that winter on PEI has its own sort of magic. Cozy nights reading a good book by the fireplace, cross-country skiing adventures through snow-capped forests, hearty meals at the family dining table, and plenty of ‘hygge’ opportunities await. Plus, if that’s not enough to lift your spirits, there’s also the promise of another PEI summer at the cottage mere months away!