With summer almost at an end, it’s time to pack up and head back home. But before you close up your cottage for winter, be sure to shield your summer home from cold weather – and the pests seeking shelter.

Final Cleaning and Repairs

As you begin packing up your summer essentials, add these steps to your to-do list:

  • Inspect your cottage’s roof and exterior for cracks, gaps and other openings that could let pests, rain or snow inside.
  • Unclog gutters.
  • Clean out any clutter around your space. Clutter around your cottage can encourage pest activity and help harbour pests over winter.
  • Throw away any food in your fridge or pantry that will spoil before you come back in the spring.

Keys to Safety…and Savings!

In addition to cleaning up your cottage, you can save energy (and money) by taking a few extra precautions:

  • Shut off your cottage’s water supply and drain any pipes of water.
  • Unplug major electrical appliances and prop the fridge door open.
  • Turn the heat down.

For more tips to defend your cottage this winter, check out this guide to closing the cottage and call Orkin Canada to make sure pests pack their bags, too.

Tip sheet for closing up the cottage