How to prevent unexpected repairs at your cottage
Purchasing a cottage north of Toronto is a welcomed getaway for many working professionals living in the Greater Toronto Area. Whether you’re in Muskoka, Georgian Bay, or any surrounding lake-front towns, Cottage country offers hard-working families the chance to escape and unwind from their demanding professions and household responsibilities.
That being said, owning additional property often comes with additional expenses. Many times, incidents occur that force owners to seek out quick, virtual personal loans in Canada to find temporary financial relief.
To better prepare your family, knowing the types of repairs you could face can help you get ahead of the situation. Let’s take a look at common cottage repairs that can occur unexpectedly and the best way to tackle them.
Broken Pipes
When you own a second property, you’re likely spending less time there than at your primary residence, the pipes in your cottage could be compromised, and you may not know until days later when the damage is severe and costly.
The good news is that there are preventative measures you can put in place to avoid any pipe bursts when you’re away. It’s important to regularly check any open pipes to ensure there are no cracks or dents that can lead to further damage. As the temperatures begin to drop, ensure your hose is disconnected from the outside faucet — if it’s left connected, water cannot drain properly and could freeze. If you can utilize a neighbour’s assistance, ask them to turn on your faucets periodically for a brief period if they’re using their cottage and you’re not.
If extreme weather results in damage to your cottage, there are financial alternatives to ensure your budget isn’t depleted. Online personal loans can be issued to Canadians that face unexpected, large expenses that their emergency funds cannot cover.
Faulty Windows
Chances are, the windows in your cottage are original to the structure and haven’t been replaced in years. In these cases, dated windows are often ill-fitting, and their frames can expand and contract over time — this could lead to drafts entering your space and leaving more opportunities for intruders when you’re not using your property. Installing new windows is an investment in your property that can also yield several energy-efficient benefits and reduce your utility bills.
If your emergency fund isn’t yet established, it may be helpful to consider alternative lenders who can provide virtual financial relief, rather than put this expense on your credit cards which can procure high interest rates.
Rotting Deck
Since you’re likely not using your deck during the winter months, spring maintenance is especially crucial. Without it, you could come back to your cottage to find a rotted deck that can compromise your foundation.
Simple preventative maintenance is all you need to keep the wood looking fresh and structurally sound. If left unattended for long periods, you could face significant damage to your cottage, requiring fast short-term relief that traditional lenders often cannot provide. Knowing there is an alternative safety net can give you peace of mind, but it’s also crucial to be proactive in keeping your cottage in optimal shape so you and your family can enjoy it for years to come.
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