Seattle Through the Seasons: Home Maintenance Tips

Spring: Refresh and Repair

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Seattle’s rainy season can leave gutters clogged with debris. Early spring is the perfect time to clear out leaves and twigs to ensure proper drainage. Check for any signs of damage or wear, and make repairs as necessary to prevent water damage to your home’s foundation and exterior.

2. Examine Roof Shingles: Winter storms can be harsh on your roof. As the weather improves, inspect your roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and replace them if needed. This not only prevents leaks but also extends the life of your roof.

3. Prepare Your Garden: Spring is planting season in Seattle. Prepare your garden beds by clearing out weeds and adding fresh soil or compost to encourage growth. It's also a good time to prune shrubs and trees to promote healthy development and shape the garden to your liking.

Summer: Protect and Beautify

1. Paint and Seal Exterior: Summer offers the best weather conditions for painting. A fresh coat of paint or sealant not only improves your home’s curb appeal but also provides a protective barrier against moisture and sun damage.

2. Service Your HVAC: Before the heat of the summer sets in, have your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems serviced. This is crucial to ensure efficiency and comfort during the warmer months. Replace filters and check for any necessary repairs.

3. Check Deck and Patios: Inspect your deck, patio, or porches for any signs of wear or damage. Look for loose boards or unstable railings, and consider resealing wood structures to protect against the summer sun and rain.

Fall: Prepare and Prevent

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts Again: After the leaves fall, it’s important to clear your gutters to prevent water buildup. Clogged gutters during rainstorms can lead to water damage on both the interior and exterior of your home.

2. Seal Gaps: As the temperature starts to drop, small critters may seek warmth inside your home. Seal any gaps or holes in your exterior walls to keep out mice and other pests. Check the seals around windows and doors and replace them as necessary to improve energy efficiency.

3. Prepare for Heating: Ensure your furnace or heating system is professionally inspected and cleaned. A well-maintained heating system is more efficient and safer. Also, stock up on furnace filters and replace them monthly during the heating season.

Winter: Insulate and Oversee

1. Insulate Pipes: To prevent freezing and bursting pipes, insulate those that are exposed or in unheated areas of the home. This is especially important in attics, basements, and garages.

2. Check Insulation: Good insulation keeps your home warm and reduces heating costs. Check the insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawl spaces to ensure it meets the recommended guidelines.

3. Maintain Driveway and Walkways: Keep your driveway and walkways clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents. Use salt or sand to improve traction and ensure safe passage for both family and visitors.

Year-Round Tips

1. Regular Cleaning: Keeping your home clean is essential. Regular dusting and vacuuming can prevent the buildup of allergens and improve the overall indoor air quality.

2. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Regularly test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries at least once a year to ensure they are always operational.

3. Home Insurance Review: Annually review your home insurance policy to ensure it covers current risks and that its value is up-to-date with the current cost of rebuilding and replacing belongings.

Maintaining Your Seattle Home