How to Winterize Your Beach House in 3 Easy Steps

Winter is coming. Is your beach house prepared? And exactly what do you need to do? Let us help. We're breaking it down into three simple steps to make sure your house is ready for the change of seasons. Winters on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina are mostly mild and temperate, but it's still worth taking a few preparatory steps to ensure all systems are go for the colder winter months. Here's what you need to do to winterize your Emerald Isle beach house.

1. Do a systems check.

2. Inspect, repair and prepare.

Clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney. Make sure the chimney is free and clear of any nests from birds, squirrels or other animals. Also check your flue damper to ensure that it opens, closes and locks properly. If you haven't had your fireplace cleaned in the last few years, or ever, schedule a chimney sweep to come and clean it for you.

Check your windows and doors for air flow. On a blustery day, check each of your windows and doors for any air leakage. Check weatherstripping and repair or install where needed. 
 
Clean your gutters. Now is the time to clean your gutters and downspouts to remove any leaves, dirt and debris. Wet leaves can add significant weight to the gutters and cause damage, especially if they freeze during the colder temps.  

3. Ready your outdoor living space.

Cover or bring in any plants that need protection against frost and freezing temps. If you have any tropical or frost-sensitive plants, prepare them for the colder temps by covering them, or if they're potted, bringing them indoors for the winter. 
 
Drain any fountains or water features. Unplug any pumps and drain the water from any water features you have in your yard. 

• Make your home appear occupied. Use outdoor motion sensor lights and interior timer lights to give the appearance of occupancy in your home while you're away. Forward your mail and stop your newspaper delivery until you return.

• Have your home checked on periodically by someone you trust. It's always good to have a trusted family member, friend or neighbor come by to periodically to check on things while you're away. Give them entry access to your home so they can do a quick check inside to make sure there are no issues that need your attention.

• Prevent against pests. Make sure your home is well cleaned with the trash removed and the refrigerator and freezers emptied. Don't forget to clean your oven, too. No need to invite unwanted pests into your home while you're gone. Make sure your chimney flue is closed and check for any other open areas into your house that need to be closed up or sealed.

• Control the temperature and water. Set the thermostat to a temperature that will keep the pipes warm enough to prevent freezing. Or turn off the water supply in your home and empty the pipes and toilets in preparation for colder temps and discontinued use while you're away.

• Have security measures in place. Make sure someone in your neighborhood has your contact information in case of an emergency or unexpected situation. Check your window and door locks and alarm your house. Inspect all smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed.