Passive vs. Active Winterization: How to truly protect your villa in the Gulf of Morbihan ?

Introduction: Owning a second home on the shores of the Morbihan is a privilege, but the Breton climate can be unforgiving. Between persistent humidity, salt spray, and winter storms, leaving a property closed for several months without a rigorous winterization strategy is a major financial risk. At Serenity, we do more than just close the shutters. Here is how we secure your heritage.

1. Salt: The invisible enemy of your facades and joinery

In the Gulf, salt gets everywhere. Even several hundred yards from the shore, salty air attacks the mechanisms of your window frames and can irreversibly tarnish your glazing.

• The Serenity Advice: Rinsing with fresh water after every storm and specific lubrication of locks and hinges before winter are essential. For owners located in sensitive coastal areas, we closely follow the sustainable maintenance recommendations of the Morbihan Gulf Regional Natural Park.

  
  

2. Humidity: The battle against dew points

A closed house with the heating completely turned off is a house that "cries." Humidity condenses on cold walls, encouraging mold on your furnishings or artwork.

• The Expertise: We advocate for active winterization. Rather than cutting everything off, we maintain an intelligent "frost-protection" temperature and monitor humidity levels to protect your most precious interiors.

  
  

3. Post-storm surveillance: Reactivity makes the difference

Waiting for your next visit to discover a missing roof slate is leaving the door wide open for water damage.

• Our Commitment: As soon as Météo France issues a wind warning exceeding 80 km/h (approx. 50 mph) in the Vannes basin or the islands, a perimeter check is carried out within 24 hours by our secondary residence management teams.

  
  

4. Utilities: Avoiding silent water damage

A faulty water heater safety valve or a frozen pipe can cause thousands of euros in damage within days if no one is there to shut off the main water supply.

• The Serenity Procedure: Draining outdoor networks, checking sump pumps, and shutting off indoor water supplies during extended periods of absence.

Conclusion: Winterization should not be a source of stress. Entrusting this mission to a local expert ensures that you find a healthy, functional villa, ready to be enjoyed from the first rays of the April sun.