When the bears go into hibernation, so do most of our summer living spaces. The problem is that winter can be hard on a cottage that sits empty or a trailer or mobile home that goes unused. However, with a few simple steps you can prepare these spaces for surviving the harsh weather until summer comes around again.
Published October 17, 2019, Updated December 6, 2020
Published October 17, 2019, Updated December 6, 2020
Outdoors
How to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile Home
December 6, 2020
When the bears go into hibernation, so do most of our summer living spaces. The problem is that winter can be hard on a cottage that sits empty or a trailer or mobile home that goes unused. However, with a few simple steps you can prepare these spaces for surviving the harsh weather until summer comes around again.
Published October 17, 2019, Updated December 6, 2020
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Turn Off the Water
1/20Turn Off the Water
1/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Cottages, trailers and mobile homes all have plumbing that is very susceptible to freezing in the cold. This is especially true if there’s nobody there to run the water. When <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/water-leaks-101-how-to-protect-your-home-1920494/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">water</a> freezes in the pipes, it expands and can cause the pipes to crack or burst. So, the first thing to do to winterize these living spaces is to turn off the main water valve, the water pump and the water heater. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/how-to-protect-outdoor-plants-and-trees-from-frost-and-freeze-1924336/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Protect Outdoor Plants and Trees From Frost and Freeze</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeTurn Off the Water
PHOTO 1 of 20READ LESS -Cottages, trailers and mobile homes all have plumbing that is very susceptible to freezing in the cold. This is especially true if there’s nobody there to run the water. When <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/water-leaks-101-how-to-protect-your-home-1920494/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">water</a> freezes in the pipes, it expands and can cause the pipes to crack or burst. So, the first thing to do to winterize these living spaces is to turn off the main water valve, the water pump and the water heater. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/how-to-protect-outdoor-plants-and-trees-from-frost-and-freeze-1924336/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Protect Outdoor Plants and Trees From Frost and Freeze</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Drain All Pipes
2/20Drain All Pipes
2/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Once you’ve turned off the water supply, you need to get rid of the water that’s still in the pipes. To do this, open every tap and let it run until all the water has drained out. If there isn’t a floor drain, you’ll need to attach a hose when you drain your hot water tank. You may also want to flush the toilets until the bowls are empty. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/use-your-outdoor-space-winter-1922732/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Smart Ways to Maximize Your Outdoor Space in the Winter</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeDrain All Pipes
PHOTO 2 of 20READ LESS -Once you’ve turned off the water supply, you need to get rid of the water that’s still in the pipes. To do this, open every tap and let it run until all the water has drained out. If there isn’t a floor drain, you’ll need to attach a hose when you drain your hot water tank. You may also want to flush the toilets until the bowls are empty. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/use-your-outdoor-space-winter-1922732/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Smart Ways to Maximize Your Outdoor Space in the Winter</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Add Antifreeze
3/20Add Antifreeze
3/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Just in case you didn’t get every last drop of water out, it’s a good idea to add some antifreeze to your plumbing system. For instance, add it to the holding tanks, jet pump casing, toilet tanks and bowls and drains.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeAdd Antifreeze
PHOTO 3 of 20READ LESS -Just in case you didn’t get every last drop of water out, it’s a good idea to add some antifreeze to your plumbing system. For instance, add it to the holding tanks, jet pump casing, toilet tanks and bowls and drains.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Insulate the Pipes
4/20Insulate the Pipes
4/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
If you’re thinking of using your cottage, trailer or mobile home for full-time living, you don’t want to be without water in winter, so draining the pipes isn’t really an option. Instead, insulating the pipes will protect them from freezing when the water isn’t running. Put insulation sleeves, slip-on pipe insulation or insulation wrapping around the pipes and make sure everything’s properly secured. Also check that there are no gaps where cold air can enter. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/tips-and-tricks/photos/mike-holmes-insulating-your-home-house-losing-heat-1923488/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mike Holmes on Insulating Your Home: How to Check Where Your House is Losing Heat</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeInsulate the Pipes
PHOTO 4 of 20READ LESS -If you’re thinking of using your cottage, trailer or mobile home for full-time living, you don’t want to be without water in winter, so draining the pipes isn’t really an option. Instead, insulating the pipes will protect them from freezing when the water isn’t running. Put insulation sleeves, slip-on pipe insulation or insulation wrapping around the pipes and make sure everything’s properly secured. Also check that there are no gaps where cold air can enter. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/tips-and-tricks/photos/mike-holmes-insulating-your-home-house-losing-heat-1923488/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mike Holmes on Insulating Your Home: How to Check Where Your House is Losing Heat</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Replace Damaged Pipes
5/20Replace Damaged Pipes
5/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Check all the pipes for cracks and other signs of damage. Damaged pipes will need to be replaced or you may have to deal with costly water leaks. The good news is that plastic and rubber pipes are not only cheaper, but are also more freeze-resistant. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/water-leaks-101-how-to-protect-your-home-1920494/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Water Leaks 101: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Home</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeReplace Damaged Pipes
PHOTO 5 of 20READ LESS -Check all the pipes for cracks and other signs of damage. Damaged pipes will need to be replaced or you may have to deal with costly water leaks. The good news is that plastic and rubber pipes are not only cheaper, but are also more freeze-resistant. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/water-leaks-101-how-to-protect-your-home-1920494/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Water Leaks 101: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Home</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Consider Replacing Copper and Steel Pipes
6/20Consider Replacing Copper and Steel Pipes
6/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Copper and steel pipes absorb the cold much more readily than plastic and rubber pipes, which means that they’re more susceptible to freezing over too. You may want to consider replacing them with the plastic or rubber kind.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeConsider Replacing Copper and Steel Pipes
PHOTO 6 of 20READ LESS -Copper and steel pipes absorb the cold much more readily than plastic and rubber pipes, which means that they’re more susceptible to freezing over too. You may want to consider replacing them with the plastic or rubber kind.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Check the Caulking and Weatherstripping
7/20Check the Caulking and Weatherstripping
7/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
One of the three <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/photos/mike-holmes-do-these-three-things-before-first-snow-fall-1050986/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should do before first snowfall</a> is to check and replace the caulking and weatherstripping around your home. This is important for a cottage, trailer or mobile home too, since it will help insulate the home and protect your pipes.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeCheck the Caulking and Weatherstripping
PHOTO 7 of 20READ LESS -One of the three <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/photos/mike-holmes-do-these-three-things-before-first-snow-fall-1050986/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should do before first snowfall</a> is to check and replace the caulking and weatherstripping around your home. This is important for a cottage, trailer or mobile home too, since it will help insulate the home and protect your pipes.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Run Water Regularly
8/20Run Water Regularly
8/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Some people suggest that you keep a tap dripping to help prevent the pipes from freezing over, but this is obviously not one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/20-easy-ways-to-save-money-on-your-water-bill-1053139/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy ways to save money on your water bill</a>. If you’re spending time in your cottage, trailer or mobile home during winter, you can simply run the water regularly instead.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeRun Water Regularly
PHOTO 8 of 20READ LESS -Some people suggest that you keep a tap dripping to help prevent the pipes from freezing over, but this is obviously not one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/20-easy-ways-to-save-money-on-your-water-bill-1053139/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy ways to save money on your water bill</a>. If you’re spending time in your cottage, trailer or mobile home during winter, you can simply run the water regularly instead.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Remember the Hose Bibs
9/20Remember the Hose Bibs
9/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Many people forget about the hose bibs (outside faucets) – until they burst. To prevent this from happening, drain the hose bibs, cover them to insulate them and then deactivate them at the shut-off valve.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeRemember the Hose Bibs
PHOTO 9 of 20READ LESS -Many people forget about the hose bibs (outside faucets) – until they burst. To prevent this from happening, drain the hose bibs, cover them to insulate them and then deactivate them at the shut-off valve.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Consider Heat Tape
10/20Consider Heat Tape
10/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Heat tape is a great way to keep pipes from freezing over. However, follow all the safety guidelines when using heat tape, since they can be a fire hazard.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeConsider Heat Tape
PHOTO 10 of 20READ LESS -Heat tape is a great way to keep pipes from freezing over. However, follow all the safety guidelines when using heat tape, since they can be a fire hazard.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Clean the Gutters
11/20Clean the Gutters
11/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Your cottage most likely has gutters that can get blocked. Clean out any debris that can trap water and snow. Clogged gutters are also one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/20-things-that-attract-bad-bugs-into-your-house-and-yard-1903104/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things that attract pests to your house and yard</a> because they provide the perfect shelter for tiny critters.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeClean the Gutters
PHOTO 11 of 20READ LESS -Your cottage most likely has gutters that can get blocked. Clean out any debris that can trap water and snow. Clogged gutters are also one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/20-things-that-attract-bad-bugs-into-your-house-and-yard-1903104/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things that attract pests to your house and yard</a> because they provide the perfect shelter for tiny critters.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Relax the Tie Downs
12/20Relax the Tie Downs
12/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
When the ground freezes, it contracts and this can cause extra strain for your mobile home’s tie downs. To reduce the risk of tie downs snapping, relax them just a little bit.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeRelax the Tie Downs
PHOTO 12 of 20READ LESS -When the ground freezes, it contracts and this can cause extra strain for your mobile home’s tie downs. To reduce the risk of tie downs snapping, relax them just a little bit.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Cover the Chimneys and Stove Pipes
13/20Cover the Chimneys and Stove Pipes
13/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
If you’re not going to be using your cottage or mobile home during winter, it’s wise to cover the openings to the chimneys and stove pipes. This will not only keep unwelcome creatures out, but will also prevent cold air from coming into the space.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeCover the Chimneys and Stove Pipes
PHOTO 13 of 20READ LESS -If you’re not going to be using your cottage or mobile home during winter, it’s wise to cover the openings to the chimneys and stove pipes. This will not only keep unwelcome creatures out, but will also prevent cold air from coming into the space.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Take Care of the Septic Tank
14/20Take Care of the Septic Tank
14/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Taking care of the septic tank is one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/real-estate/photos/6-things-you-should-never-forget-to-do-when-closing-the-cottage-or-cabin-for-winter-1052937/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should never forget when closing your cottage for winter</a>. The perfect time to drain the septic tank is when you’re already winterizing the property. Alternatively, pour a bacteria compound into the system. The bacteria will do their work during winter, breaking down waste in the tank.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeTake Care of the Septic Tank
PHOTO 14 of 20READ LESS -Taking care of the septic tank is one of the <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/real-estate/photos/6-things-you-should-never-forget-to-do-when-closing-the-cottage-or-cabin-for-winter-1052937/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should never forget when closing your cottage for winter</a>. The perfect time to drain the septic tank is when you’re already winterizing the property. Alternatively, pour a bacteria compound into the system. The bacteria will do their work during winter, breaking down waste in the tank.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Protect the Windows
15/20Protect the Windows
15/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Few cottages, trailers and mobiles homes have windows that can withstand winter storms. You can have storm windows installed, but if you’re not going to be staying there for winter, a cheaper alternative is to board up the windows. This will also help keep animals out. Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/mike-holmes-how-to-maintain-deck-shed-pool-fence-1913207/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Prolong the Life of Your Deck, Shed and Other Costly Outdoor Structures</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeProtect the Windows
PHOTO 15 of 20READ LESS -Few cottages, trailers and mobiles homes have windows that can withstand winter storms. You can have storm windows installed, but if you’re not going to be staying there for winter, a cheaper alternative is to board up the windows. This will also help keep animals out. Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/mike-holmes/blog/mike-holmes-how-to-maintain-deck-shed-pool-fence-1913207/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Prolong the Life of Your Deck, Shed and Other Costly Outdoor Structures</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Take Care of the Soft Furnishings
16/20Take Care of the Soft Furnishings
16/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Soft furnishings like mattresses and couch cushions can collect dust and become a breeding ground for mould and mildew when they’re not being used. Remove all blankets, <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bedrooms/photos/dont-make-these-11-mistakes-when-buying-bedding-1929125/#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bedding</a> and clothes and wash them. You may also want to take them with you rather than leaving them behind in your vacation space. Prop your mattresses and cushions up against the walls for better airflow. You can also cover them with sheets to protect them against dust. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/stylish-laundry-rooms-designs-1921685/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Laundry Room Ideas That Are Beyond Stylish (And Super Functional)</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeTake Care of the Soft Furnishings
PHOTO 16 of 20READ LESS -Soft furnishings like mattresses and couch cushions can collect dust and become a breeding ground for mould and mildew when they’re not being used. Remove all blankets, <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bedrooms/photos/dont-make-these-11-mistakes-when-buying-bedding-1929125/#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bedding</a> and clothes and wash them. You may also want to take them with you rather than leaving them behind in your vacation space. Prop your mattresses and cushions up against the walls for better airflow. You can also cover them with sheets to protect them against dust. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/stylish-laundry-rooms-designs-1921685/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Laundry Room Ideas That Are Beyond Stylish (And Super Functional)</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Get Rid of Food
17/20Get Rid of Food
17/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Food left behind in a cottage, trailer or mobile home that’s not being used in winter is a sure way to <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/how-to-safeguard-your-home-from-raccoons-1931373/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">attract all kinds of creatures</a>, big and small. In addition, rotting food will leave the space <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/smelliest-areas-of-your-house-how-to-fix-them-1929047/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smelly</a>. Get rid of the food and while you’re at it, the trash.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeGet Rid of Food
PHOTO 17 of 20READ LESS -Food left behind in a cottage, trailer or mobile home that’s not being used in winter is a sure way to <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/how-to-safeguard-your-home-from-raccoons-1931373/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">attract all kinds of creatures</a>, big and small. In addition, rotting food will leave the space <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/smelliest-areas-of-your-house-how-to-fix-them-1929047/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smelly</a>. Get rid of the food and while you’re at it, the trash.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Clean the AC
18/20Clean the AC
18/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Fall cleaning is <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/fall-cleaning-more-important-than-spring-cleaning-1930941/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">more important</a> than spring cleaning and this goes for your cottage, trailer or mobile home too. One of the most important things to take care of is your AC because those vents can provide a place for rodents and insects to thrive during the cold months. As you’re cleaning your vacation space for winter, clean out the vents. Then remove the AC filters and clean or replace them.OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeClean the AC
PHOTO 18 of 20READ LESS -Fall cleaning is <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/cleaning-and-organization/photos/fall-cleaning-more-important-than-spring-cleaning-1930941/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">more important</a> than spring cleaning and this goes for your cottage, trailer or mobile home too. One of the most important things to take care of is your AC because those vents can provide a place for rodents and insects to thrive during the cold months. As you’re cleaning your vacation space for winter, clean out the vents. Then remove the AC filters and clean or replace them.Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Bring in the Outdoor Furniture and Watercraft
19/20Bring in the Outdoor Furniture and Watercraft
19/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Winter weather can damage your outdoor furniture and watercraft like canoes and kayaks. Also, strong winter winds can blow them away or even blow them right into your cottage, trailer or mobile home, causing damage. If you can’t store your outdoor furniture and watercraft in a shed or other indoor space, chain them securely to a tree or pole. Remember to drain the watercraft of all water first. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/best-outdoor-furniture-under-100-1927401/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Outdoor Furnishings for Under $100</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeBring in the Outdoor Furniture and Watercraft
PHOTO 19 of 20READ LESS -Winter weather can damage your outdoor furniture and watercraft like canoes and kayaks. Also, strong winter winds can blow them away or even blow them right into your cottage, trailer or mobile home, causing damage. If you can’t store your outdoor furniture and watercraft in a shed or other indoor space, chain them securely to a tree or pole. Remember to drain the watercraft of all water first. <BR><BR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/best-outdoor-furniture-under-100-1927401/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Outdoor Furnishings for Under $100</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Switch Off and Unplug Appliances
20/20Switch Off and Unplug Appliances
20/20Photo Credit: Getty Images
Appliances that remain switched on but unattended not only drive up your hydro bill, but can pose a fire risk. Before leaving your vacation property for winter, switch off and unplug all those appliances. Also remember to disconnect the gas. <BR><bR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/how-long-household-appliances-last-toss-fix-1939421/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How Long Household Appliances Last: When You Should Toss or Fix</a>OutdoorsHow to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile HomeSwitch Off and Unplug Appliances
PHOTO 20 of 20READ LESS -Appliances that remain switched on but unattended not only drive up your hydro bill, but can pose a fire risk. Before leaving your vacation property for winter, switch off and unplug all those appliances. Also remember to disconnect the gas. <BR><bR> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/how-long-household-appliances-last-toss-fix-1939421/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How Long Household Appliances Last: When You Should Toss or Fix</a>Photo Credit: Getty Images
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