A lake house can be a private retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That is never more true than in the warm and lazy days of summer. You don’t have to spend the winter only dreaming of your lake house, however. The offseason is a great time to do some upgrades and fix anything that may be showing signs of wear. Use these 10 simple strategies to ensure that next summer is the best one ever.
1. Check the Foundation
Do a quick walk around the house’s foundation. Pull away any leaves and debris that may have collected there to allow for proper ventilation and water runoff. Be sure to fix any damage you might find to help keep critters from making a home under your cabin during the cooler weather.
2. Upgrade the Power System
Does your lake cabin rely on a generator for power? If so, then you know it can be a hassle to have fuel delivered or haul it with you on vacation trips. Consider having a solar power system installed to meet your power needs. Adding a battery backup will keep your cabin powered around the clock.
3. Replace Worn Boards
Constant moisture from the lake can take a toll on exposed wood. Check decking and dock structures for damage and make repairs now. Cooler weather will make it more tolerable to be working outside, plus you won’t have to give up valuable family time fixing a broken dock.
4. Maximize the Storage
Cabins aren’t exactly known for their expansive storage space. That doesn’t mean you have to settle for cramming everything into a single closet. Look for creative storage solutions that serve double duty. Installing hooks and shelves along the walls is another great idea; it frees up floor space and gives you a place for everything from wet towels to your favorite summer reading material.
5. Build a Firepit
A backyard fire pit will be a welcome addition on those cooler evenings. Putting one in yourself is easier than you might think. Learn how with an online tutorial.
6. Put Up Sunshades
Sunshades and fabric awnings are a versatile addition to any place you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors to match almost any outdoor decor, and they can be attached to either the outside of your cabin or freestanding poles.
7. Hang a Hammock
If just thinking of the hours you can spend swinging your worries away in a hammock next summer is relaxing, imagine how great it will be once you hang one at your lake house. Hammocks come in a variety of materials and sizes, so you can choose one for just you, or for the whole family to gather in. If you are looking for something a bit different, hanging swings and beds are great alternatives to traditional hammocks.
8. Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is an excellent idea for vacation homes. You’ll be able to adjust the temperature on the ride up so everyone is comfortable while they get settled in.
9. Schedule a Pest Treatment
It’s a good idea to check for signs of insect damage if you visit during the offseason. If you find anything, address it immediately. Even if you don’t however, having an annual inspection and preventive service done by a professional is a good idea. It will help keep those unwanted six-legged visitors outdoors.
10. Plant Native Landscaping
Planting attractive landscape plants now means you will have a beautiful yard with less work when the warm weather rolls around. Most native plants will do very well if put in during the fall or early spring. It gives them a chance to develop a healthy root system during a time when they don’t have to worry about producing leaves or fruit. Plus, since they are well-suited to the climate, they are perfectly adapted to the conditions at your lake property
With a little planning and proactive work, you can make your lake house a true oasis for the upcoming season.
