As beautiful as Saskatchewan’s summers are, the winters can be harsh and unforgiving—especially for seasonal homeowners. If you own a cottage or vacation home in Saskatchewan, preparing it for winter is essential to protect your investment and ensure peace of mind during the off-season. Whether your cottage is lakeside, nestled in the forest, or set in Saskatchewan’s prairies, winterization isn’t just smart—it’s necessary.
Below is your complete, expert-level step-by-step winterization guide, loaded with SEO-rich advice to help homeowners prepare for extreme cold, avoid damage, and optimize for energy efficiency while the property is vacant.
Why Winterizing Your Saskatchewan Cottage Is Essential
Saskatchewan winters can reach temperatures as low as -40°C with wind chills even lower. Leaving your vacation home unprepared could result in:
- Frozen and burst pipes
- Roof damage due to ice dams and heavy snow
- Mold from interior condensation
- Rodent or pest infestations
- High energy bills from heating inefficiencies
- Insurance claims denied due to neglect
Winterizing your cottage not only safeguards the structure but also avoids thousands of dollars in repairs, ensuring it’s ready for seamless re-entry in the spring.
Step 1: Turn Off and Drain Your Water Systems
Prevent Frozen Pipes and Floods
Water is the most destructive force in winter if left unmanaged.
- Shut off the main water supply to the cottage.
- Open all taps to drain water lines.
- Flush all toilets and add non-toxic RV antifreeze to the bowl and tank.
- Drain the hot water heater and pressure tank if applicable.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and insulate exterior spigots.
- Use pipe insulation or heat tape for pipes at risk of freezing.
If your cottage uses a well system, ensure the pump is turned off and drained or equipped with a frost-proof system.
Step 2: Power Down Safely and Securely
Electricity, Appliances & Smart Monitors
Electricity can be your friend or your foe.
- Unplug non-essential appliances like microwaves, TVs, and lamps.
- Leave the fridge and freezer doors open after cleaning to prevent mold and odors.
- Turn off and drain the dishwasher and washing machine.
- Shut off the electrical panel breakers for non-essential areas.
- Leave essential circuits like security systems or smart thermostats powered.
Consider investing in smart home monitors that alert you of power outages, temperature drops, or flooding.
Step 3: Optimize Heating Systems for Safety and Efficiency
Don’t Let Your Home Freeze or Overheat
If you’re leaving the heat on, follow these tips:
- Set your thermostat to 10°C (50°F) to prevent freezing without wasting energy.
- Clean or replace furnace filters before closing up.
- Consider smart thermostats that allow remote access and control.
- If using propane, top up tanks and notify your supplier of seasonal status.
If you plan to shut off all heat, make sure every part of the home is fully winterized, especially plumbing.
Step 4: Seal Windows, Doors, and Cracks
Eliminate Drafts and Moisture Intrusion
Air leaks allow cold air and pests to enter.
- Install weather stripping on doors and windows.
- Use caulk to seal exterior cracks.
- Cover windows with insulating film or storm shutters.
- Close fireplace dampers and install a chimney balloon if unused.
- Check attic and crawl spaces for air leaks and insulation gaps.
This not only keeps cold out but also reduces the risk of ice dam formation.
Step 5: Rodent and Pest Proofing
Keep Critters Out During the Off-Season
Mice, squirrels, and raccoons look for warm hideouts in the winter.
- Remove all food sources, even dry and canned goods.
- Use steel wool or expanding foam to seal gaps larger than 1/4 inch.
- Install rodent guards on vents and chimney openings.
- Consider placing mothballs or peppermint oil sachets in strategic areas.
- Set traps and use rodent repellents in high-risk zones.
If infestation has occurred in past seasons, consider hiring a pest control specialist before leaving.
Step 6: Exterior Preparation and Landscaping
Protect the Structure from Snow, Ice, and Wind
Your exterior needs as much attention as the interior.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice buildup.
- Trim overhanging tree limbs that could fall due to snow or wind.
- Secure outdoor furniture or store it indoors.
- Apply weatherproofing to decks and railings.
- Check and reinforce roof shingles or metal roof panels.
Heavy snow accumulation on your roof can lead to ice dams and structural collapse, especially in lake-effect areas.
Step 7: Secure the Property for Peace of Mind
Deter Theft and Vandalism
Seasonal homes are often targets for break-ins.
- Install a smart security system with motion-activated cameras and lighting.
- Notify local RCMP or community watch that your property is unoccupied.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
- Use timers on indoor lights to simulate presence.
- Double check all locks on doors, windows, and sheds.
Post visible “Property Monitored” signage, even if you’re using a dummy system. It works.
Step 8: Insurance Check and Documentation
Cover Yourself Legally and Financially
Before you lock the door, do this:
- Take photos and videos of your winterized property.
- Inform your insurance company that the property will be vacant.
- Ensure your policy covers vacant homes and winter damage.
- Keep a list of emergency contacts like neighbors, handymen, and HVAC techs.
Some policies require regular check-ins or maintenance logs. Failing to comply can void coverage in case of winter-related claims.
Step 9: Schedule Winter Check-Ins
Regular Monitoring Ensures Safety
If you live far away, hire a local caretaker or neighbor to:
- Check the property after heavy storms.
- Look for signs of intrusion, leaks, or animal activity.
- Test smart systems and backup generators.
- Clear snow if needed to prevent structural damage.
Having someone local drastically reduces response time if a problem arises.
Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind All Winter Long
Properly winterizing your cottage in Saskatchewan ensures that when you return in spring, your property is just the way you left it—dry, secure, and damage-free. It’s not just about maintenance—it’s about protecting your investment and enjoying the off-season without stress.