As the Pacific Northwest soaks up the last warm and sunny days of summer, August is the perfect month to prep your home for the transition into fall. From moss-prone roofs to moisture management and wildfire awareness, staying on top of seasonal maintenance is key to protecting your investment.

Here’s your August home maintenance checklist — tailored specifically for the unique climate and challenges of the PNW.

✅ 1. Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

The dry stretch of August is a great time to clear out debris before the rain returns. Even if you cleaned them in spring, late-summer leaves and pine needles can accumulate quickly.

Flush downspouts with a hose
Check for sagging or leaks
Make sure water is draining away from your foundation

🌧 Bonus tip: Install gutter guards if you live in a heavily wooded area.

✅ 2. Check for Roof Damage or Moss Growth

The Pacific Northwest is notorious for mossy roofs and hidden water damage. Do a visual inspection or hire a professional to:

Look for missing or damaged shingles
Remove moss and apply moss treatment (early morning or evening application is best)
Check flashing around chimneys and vents

✅ 3. Prep Your Yard for Wildfire Season

August is peak wildfire season in many parts of Washington and Oregon. Take steps to create defensible space around your home:

Clear dry brush, dead plants, and pine needles
Trim trees at least 10 feet away from structures
Move firewood and flammable materials away from your house

🔥 Pro tip: Water your lawn early in the morning to reduce evaporation and conserve water.

✅ 4. Service Your HVAC or Heat Pump

Before cooler evenings creep in, make sure your heating and cooling systems are running efficiently:

Replace or clean filters
Check outdoor units for debris buildup
Schedule a tune-up if you haven’t had one in the last year

This is especially important if you're using ductless heat pumps, which are common in energy-efficient PNW homes.

✅ 5. Inspect Window Seals and Weather Stripping

With summer breezes fading, now’s the time to make sure your home is sealed tight:

Feel around windows and doors for drafts
Replace worn-out weather stripping
Re-caulk any cracked seals

This small step can save you big on heating bills once fall hits.

✅ 6. Deep Clean Outdoor Living Spaces

Before the rainy season returns, give your decks, patios, and outdoor furniture some love:

Pressure wash decks or patios
Re-seal wood surfaces if needed
Clean and store outdoor cushions

🍂 Want to extend your outdoor season? Consider adding a covered area or heat lamp to enjoy fall evenings in style.

✅ 7. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Wildfire smoke and indoor heating can create air quality challenges in the PNW. Stay safe by:

Testing detectors
Replacing batteries
Installing extra units if needed (especially near bedrooms and in basements)

✅ 8. Check for Pest Entry Points

As temperatures drop, pests start looking for a way inside:

Seal cracks around your foundation and siding
Install door sweeps
Inspect attic vents and crawlspaces for rodent access

Rodents and insects are more than just a nuisance—they can cause serious structural damage over time.

📝 Final Thoughts

August might feel like the tail end of summer fun, but it’s also your last chance to get ahead of fall and winter maintenance tasks. Staying proactive means fewer emergency repairs, lower energy bills, and a more comfortable home as the PNW weather shifts.

#MyPugetSoundHomes #HomeMaintenance #AugustTips #CozyHome

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