7 Things to Do When Opening Your Cabin for the Summer
Many of us Minnesotans spend summer weekends at our cabins, enjoying the lake life. When opening your cabin for the season, take these seven steps to make sure it’s safe, in good shape, and can be enjoyed to the fullest this summer.
- Check your roof, siding, walls, doors, and windows for damage.
- Schedule for repairs to be made for any significant damage that’s found while opening your cabin.
- Inspect and clean your gutters to prevent water damage.
- With regular cleaning and maintenance, gutters and downspouts should last about 20 years. However, due to storms and other factors, damage is sometimes unavoidable.
- When your gutter system is damaged, it can’t properly do its job, which is to direct water away from your home. Learn more about how to identify gutter damage here.
- Check for chewed cords/wiring and other damage caused by critters.
- Damaged cords and wiring should be replaced. Call in a professional electrician for any re-wiring needs.
- Check window screens for tears and holes.
- Even the tiniest damage can allow for bugs to sneak in. If you find tears or holes, screen repair kits can be purchased online or at the hardware store.
- Inspect your deck and/or dock for rotting or other damage.
- You’ll be spending a lot of time in your deck or dock this summer, so you want to make sure these areas are safe for you and your family. Have repairs made as needed.
- Restock your first aid kit and other emergency supplies.
- Be prepared in case you get caught in a storm or other emergency at your cabin this summer.
- Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries and replace detectors older than 10 years.
- This is extremely important as fire risks increase in the summer. These risks include grilling, campfires, setting off fireworks, AC electrical malfunctions, and storms.
- Once you have new batteries and/or detectors in, don’t forget to test them once a month throughout the summer.
What if My Cabin Needs Repairs?
If you find that significant repairs to be made while opening your cabin, call in a professional.
While Kiser Construction is based in Elk River, we serve all areas within a 50-60 mile radius of our office. We offer a wide array of services for both interiors and exteriors. We’ve serviced cabins and lake homes as far north as Mille Lacs Lake, so don’t hesitate to give us a call if your cabin is within our service area.
If you’re located outside of our service area, do some research to find a reputable contractor near your cabin.
We hope you have a fun and safe summer at the lake!
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