Quick tips for transitioning your cottage into the Fall season

As the weather changes, it is time to think about what we need to do, not only around our homes but around our vacation homes/cottages too.  Some of us need to shut our cottages for the winter, some need to make some weather specific adjustments.  Some of these are more cosmetic and some are necessary, but here's a good list to consider:

• rake leaves up around plants and wrap any that are delicate
• prune
• fertilize
• clean eaves (after all the leaves have fallen off the trees)
• store exterior furniture
• remove docks
• make sure electric water cables are plugged in to keep water from freezing
• turn off outside water
• if you get a lot of snow and want to clear the driveway in the winter, tall stakes to indicate the perimeter of the drive will help once everything is snow covered
• if you have older windows, consider adding storm windows for the colder months, or even insulated blinds or curtains can help
• change out bedding for heavier weight blankets/duvets (I always have baskets full of extra fleece blankets, too)
• swap guest flip-flops for cozy slippers
• stock the cottage with winter treats — hot chocolate, soups, baking supplies for chilly winter afternoons
• add warm but durable area rugs where possible (make sure they don't interfere with the door sweep)
• stock up on movies
• make sure temperature sensitive products are in heated areas — i.e. latex paints can move from sheds to heated attic or storage spaces inside
• get a septic pump out before the ground freezes (it's usually cheaper)
• consider booking any early Spring work over the winter — deck spruce up, roof repair, new dock...
• swap your dehumidifier for a humidifier