Owning a lake home in Okoboji is a dream come true. To keep that dream alive, it’s important to protect your home from the harsh winter months when it may be left unoccupied. Winterizing your lake home in Okoboji ensures that your property remains in top condition for when you return next season. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you through the winterization process and protect your investment.
Create a Checklist
Before you start winterizing, create a checklist that details everything you need to do, both inside and outside the home. This will make sure you don’t miss any critical tasks. Having a checklist will also make reopening your lake home much easier when spring arrives.
The Kitchen: Clean and Clear
- Remove all food items: Anything left behind can attract unwanted guests like rodents or insects. If you decide to leave dry foods, ensure they are stored in airtight, rodent-proof containers.
- Clean your refrigerator and freezer: After cleaning, leave the doors slightly open to prevent mold and mildew growth. Place an open box of baking soda or charcoal inside to absorb odors.
- Remove liquids: Bottled liquids like soda, beer, and water can freeze and burst, so take these with you or dispose of them.
- Pest prevention: Spray insecticides and place traps in key areas such as baseboards, under the sink, and along kitchen counters.
Protect Your Plumbing
- Turn off the water supply: In freezing conditions, pipes can burst if water is left inside. Drain all waterlines and use antifreeze in sinks, toilets, and showers to prevent freezing. Consider hiring a plumber to assist with this process if you’re unsure how to properly drain pipes.
- Wrap exposed pipes: Insulate any pipes that might be exposed to the cold, especially in unheated areas like the basement or crawl spaces.
Shut Down Utilities
- Turn off or lower the heat: If you plan to leave the home for an extended period, lower the thermostat to around 50°F to prevent freezing while saving energy. Some homeowners leave the heat on at a low setting to protect interior fixtures from frost damage.
- Unplug appliances: To prevent fire risks from faulty wiring or rodent damage, unplug small appliances such as microwaves and coffee makers.
- Drain your water heater: If you don’t plan to return during winter, drain the water heater and turn it off to avoid freezing and damage.
Secure the Exterior
- Bring in outdoor furniture: Harsh winter winds and snow can damage outdoor furniture, so bring these items indoors.
- Check for leaks: Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and the foundation to keep cold air and pests out.
- Trim tree branches: Snow-laden branches hanging over the house can snap and cause damage to your roof or siding.
Roof and Gutter Maintenance
- Inspect the roof: Look for loose or damaged shingles that could allow moisture inside during heavy snowfalls. Fix any areas that could cause leaks over the winter.
- Clean your gutters: Clear out leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent ice dams, which can lead to roof damage.
Security Measures
- Secure doors and windows: Install strong locks on all entry points and close any shutters to protect windows from storms. This will also help keep carpeting and fabrics from fading in the sunlight.
- Stop mail and deliveries: If your home will be vacant for the winter, suspend deliveries to avoid the appearance of an unoccupied home.
- Install an alarm system: If you have an electronic alarm system, make sure it’s operational and connected to a backup battery in case of power outages.
Hire a Caretaker or Neighbor
Ask a local neighbor or hire a caretaker to check in on your property occasionally. This ensures that small issues, such as a broken window or a heating malfunction, are addressed before they turn into major problems.
Opening Your Home in the Spring
When you’re ready to return in the spring, your checklist will again be your best friend. Start by airing out the home, restoring water and power, and checking for any signs of damage. Having followed these winterization steps, your home will be in great shape. This allows you to enjoy your time at the lake from day one.
By taking the time to winterize your vacation lake home in Okoboji, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your home remains a peaceful retreat for years to come. Make it part of your routine, and you’ll enjoy both peace of mind and a worry-free return to your beautiful lakeside getaway. If you need any help with winterizing your lake home in Okoboji, contact us at Okoboji Realty!
