Home Maintenance in Western Washington

Keep your home ready for rain, moisture, mild winters, and seasonal changes.

Homes in Western Washington face a unique combination of steady rainfall, damp winters, mild temperatures, and lush vegetation. Over time, moisture can contribute to moss and algae growth, clogged drainage systems, wood deterioration, and hidden water damage. A proactive home maintenance routine can help identify small problems early, protect the exterior and interior of your home, and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs as the seasons change.

Spring

  • Roof & Gutters

    • Inspect roofing for winter storm damage, loose shingles, damaged flashing, and deteriorated sealant.
    • Remove moss and organic buildup using roofing-safe methods.
    • Clean gutters and downspouts.
    • Check gutter seams, hangers, and slopes for leaks or sagging.
    • Confirm downspouts discharge several feet away from the foundation or into a functioning drainage system.
    • Inspect roof valleys and low-slope areas for trapped debris.

  • Exterior

    • Wash siding to remove dirt, moss, mildew, and algae.
    • Inspect siding for cracks, rot, warping, swelling, or loose sections.
    • Check exterior paint and stain for failure.
    • Inspect wood trim, fascia boards, soffits, and window sills for rot.
    • Recaulk gaps around windows, doors, utility penetrations, and trim as needed.
    • Look for foundation cracking and evidence of water intrusion.
    • Inspect exterior vents and screens for damage.

  • Drainage

    • Walk the property during or shortly after heavy rain and identify areas of standing water.
    • Clear catch basins, yard drains, driveway drains, and drainage channels.
    • Confirm soil slopes away from the home.
    • Check French drains or curtain drains where installed.
    • Inspect sump pumps and test backup power if applicable.
    • Make sure mulch and soil are not piled against siding.

  • Decks & Outdoor Structures

    • Clean moss and algae from decks, stairs, patios, and walkways.
    • Inspect deck framing, posts, railings, stairs, and connections.
    • Check fences and gates for winter damage.
    • Repair loose or rotting boards.
    • Seal or stain wood surfaces when dry weather allows.

  • Interior Moisture

    • Check attics, crawl spaces, basements, and garages for dampness or mold.
    • Inspect around windows and exterior doors for staining or condensation damage.
    • Confirm bathroom fans vent outdoors.
    • Clean exhaust fans and dryer vents.
    • Check dishwasher, refrigerator, washing-machine, and sink connections for slow leaks.

  • HVAC & Plumbing

    • Replace HVAC filters.
    • Service AC or heat-pump systems before summer if applicable.
    • Clean outdoor heat-pump or AC units of leaves and debris.
    • Check hose bibs for winter damage.
    • Inspect water heaters for leaks or corrosion.

Summer

  • Exterior Projects

    • Take advantage of dry weather to paint or stain siding, trim, decks, fences, and other exterior wood.
    • Replace deteriorated caulk and sealants.
    • Repair rotted wood discovered during winter or spring.
    • Inspect siding clearances around roofs, decks, soil, and hardscape.
    • Wash moss or algae from shaded exterior surfaces.
    • Check exterior lighting and electrical outlets.

  • Roof & Chimney

    • Inspect roofing again after moss removal or repair work.
    • Trim tree branches away from the roof.
    • Remove needles and leaves from roof valleys.
    • Check chimney caps, masonry joints, flashing, and crowns.
    • Schedule chimney cleaning if you regularly use a wood-burning fireplace or stove.

  • Drainage & Landscaping

    • Maintain vegetation so there is airflow around the home.
    • Keep shrubs and vines from touching siding or roofing.
    • Check irrigation for leaks or overspray.
    • Inspect retaining walls for movement, leaning, cracking, or drainage problems.
    • Clean yard drains before fall leaves begin.

  • Interior & Mechanical

    • Replace HVAC filters.
    • Clean range-hood filters.
    • Clean dryer exhaust ducts and exterior vent covers.
    • Inspect plumbing under sinks and around toilets.
    • Test sump pumps even during dry weather.
    • Check garage-door operation, sensors, rollers, and weather seals.

  • Pest Control

    • Inspect crawl-space vents and foundation openings.
    • Check for ants, rodents, wasps, and termites.
    • Seal exterior gaps and penetrations.
    • Repair damaged window and door screens.

Autumn

  • Roof & Gutters

    • Clean gutters at the beginning and end of leaf season.
    • Remove leaves and needles from roofs, valleys, and flat roof areas.
    • Inspect roofing, flashing, and skylights before extended rain begins.
    • Treat roof moss appropriately if needed.
    • Ensure downspouts and underground drainage lines are clear.
    • Check for water spilling over gutter edges during heavy rain.

  • Drainage

    • Clear storm drains, catch basins, driveway drains, and culverts.
    • Remove leaves from drainage swales.
    • Inspect foundation drainage conditions after the first sustained rainfall.
    • Check basement and crawl-space sump pumps.
    • Make sure crawl-space access doors and vents are secure.
    • Look for erosion or soil settling around the foundation.

  • Weatherproofing

    • Inspect exterior caulking and seal gaps.
    • Replace damaged weatherstripping.
    • Check thresholds and door sweeps.
    • Inspect windows for water intrusion or failed seals.
    • Touch up exposed wood before winter.
    • Check garage-door weather seals.

  • Heating

    • Service the furnace, heat pump, boiler, fireplace, or wood stove.
    • Replace HVAC filters.
    • Clean supply and return registers.
    • Inspect chimneys, flues, and vents.
    • Check programmable thermostats and replace batteries where applicable.
    • Test carbon-monoxide alarms before heating season.

  • Plumbing

    • Disconnect garden hoses before freezing weather.
    • Insulate vulnerable pipes.
    • Winterize irrigation systems where needed.
    • Inspect outdoor faucets for leaks.
    • Know how to shut off the home's main water supply.

Winter

  • Rain & Water Intrusion

    • Monitor gutters and downspouts during periods of heavy rain.
    • Check crawl spaces, basements, and garages for water intrusion.
    • Look for ceiling or wall staining after storms.
    • Inspect windows for condensation and leaks.
    • Keep drainage channels and storm drains clear of debris.
    • Address persistent standing water near the home.

  • Roof & Exterior

    • Inspect the roof from the ground after major windstorms.
    • Remove fallen branches and storm debris when safe.
    • Check siding and trim for wind damage.
    • Monitor trees for broken or unstable limbs.
    • Keep moss and slippery organic growth under control on stairs and walkways.

  • Indoor Moisture

    • Run bath fans during and after showers.
    • Use kitchen ventilation when cooking.
    • Avoid blocking exterior walls and vents with tightly packed furnishings.
    • Check attics and crawl spaces for condensation.
    • Monitor areas around skylights and roof penetrations.
    • Use dehumidification where recurring moisture warrants it.

  • Cold Weather

    • Protect vulnerable plumbing during freezing periods.
    • Disconnect hoses and cover vulnerable hose bibs.
    • Keep heating systems operating during cold snaps.
    • Inspect pipes after freezing weather for small leaks.
    • Clear snow and ice from steps and walkways when needed.

Know When to Call a Professional

Some home maintenance projects are easy to handle on your own, while others are best left to experienced professionals. Depending on the task, you may need the help of a licensed electrician or plumber, an HVAC technician, roofer, gutter or chimney specialist, arborist, pest-control professional, general contractor, or other skilled service provider. Bringing in the right expert can help ensure the work is completed safely, correctly, and in accordance with local requirements.

 

If you’re not sure who to call, your Windermere agent can be a valuable resource. With strong connections to local communities and service providers, we can refer you to trusted professionals who can help with your home maintenance and repair needs.

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