12 Things to Do on Your Summer Cottage in Spring

When you first come to the summer cottage in spring, you don't know what to tackle first: should you start tidying up the house or the plot? We've compiled a list of the most important tasks to do first. Now you won't forget anything!

What to do in the house?

Inspect the roof for damage

If the roof was damaged during winter and you noticed leaks on the walls and ceiling, fix them as soon as possible. Check the attic for moisture and mold – these may indicate small cracks invisible to the naked eye.

If you have the opportunity to inspect the roof from the outside, check for peeling paint, bulging bubbles, and rust. Also, carefully inspect the downspouts.

Even if the roof is in good condition, set aside time to wash it with water. Use soft brushes or sponges to avoid damaging the surface. Stubborn stains can be removed with a solvent (apply it only to stained areas). Then, if necessary, repaint the roof.

Pay attention to the facade

Just like the roof, the house facade may have suffered damage or started deteriorating during winter (even without severe frosts this year). Minor damages can be fixed yourself, but in some cases, it's better to replace the finish entirely.

Also, check the foundation and basement walls – they may also need repairs.

Check the basement

If your basement ventilation is poorly organized, moisture and mold can accumulate here. Mold often forms due to dampness and gradually destroys the walls.

First, do a thorough wet cleaning and go through all items stored in the basement. If some of them are damaged, it means rodents have gotten into your home, which can cause more problems.

Don’t delay repairs to the walls and structures or fixing ventilation issues. Then treat the ceiling and walls with anti-fungal coatings.

Inspect all windows and doors

If you’ve just arrived at the summer cottage, open all windows and doors to ventilate the rooms – this helps eliminate moisture and mold and adds fresh air. Also check that there are no damages to the window frames or cracks in the door panels.

If necessary, spackle the surfaces, then repaint and apply varnish. Don’t forget to check door locks: if too much rust accumulates, the locks may jam.

Dry the rooms thoroughly

If you have a stove, check it after winter. Start by burning it for 15 minutes to gradually warm it up and avoid cracking from sudden temperature changes.

Make sure everything works

All household appliances and plumbing fixtures should be checked. The faster you detect any issues, the quicker you can fix them and enjoy your vacation.

The same applies to electricity. Before turning on electric heaters or a fireplace, make sure the wiring is in good condition.

What to do on the plot?

Now check outdoor wiring and outlets

There are more dangers for electrical appliances on the plot than inside the house. If you find any problems, don’t touch anything and call an electrician – it can be dangerous.

Inspect the fence and gate

An old, crooked fence should be replaced. Or at least repaired and repainted. It’s also important to check all locks on the gate and remove dirt and rust.

Don’t forget about garden paths

Due to sudden temperature changes, the paths may have been damaged. Cracks can be filled with concrete or replace damaged tiles in paved walkways.

Check all outbuildings

Including the garage, shed, and even a summer pavilion. It's better to ensure everything is in order (or fix any problems right away).

Don’t forget about the water supply system

Inspect external water pipes and turn on the water under high pressure: if there are any damages, you’ll immediately notice leaks.

If you have a well, clean it of last year’s leaves and branches. Also check the water level: if it's too low, you may have to repair the well.

Organize the plot

Clear away last year’s leaves, trim shrubs and fruit trees (we wrote about how to do this here), and feed perennials and bulbous plants.

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