A Guide to Seasonal Home Maintenance in Portland

Owning a home in the Pacific Northwest comes with its own set of responsibilities, especially when it comes to seasonal maintenance. Portland’s unique climate, characterized by wet winters, mild springs, dry summers, and colorful falls, demands specific care to keep your property in tip-top shape year-round. Here are some essential home maintenance tips tailored to Portland’s seasons to help you protect your investment and enjoy your home to the fullest:

Winter: Prepare for Rain and Cold

Portland winters are often rainy, with occasional freezes. Taking proactive steps can help prevent costly damage.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters:
   • Ensure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris to prevent water overflow and damage to your roof and foundation.
   • Consider installing gutter guards if you experience frequent clogs.
2. Check for Roof Leaks:
   • Inspect your roof for missing shingles, moss growth, or other damage. Portland’s wet weather can exacerbate leaks if left unaddressed, and roofs tend to not last as long as manufacturers lead you to believe in our climate.
3. Seal Drafts:
   • Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows to keep your home warm and reduce heating costs.
   • Consider thermal curtains or storm windows for added insulation.
4. Prepare Your Plumbing:
   • Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing during cold snaps.
   • Disconnect and store garden hoses, add hose bib covers and shut off outdoor faucets.
5. Service Heating Systems:
   • Schedule a service or inspection with an HVAC contractor for your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s operating well.
   • Replace air filters regularly to maintain good indoor air quality.

Spring: Refresh and Renew

Spring in Portland is a time of renewal. Use this season to clean, inspect, and prepare your home for the warmer months ahead.

1. Pressure Wash Surfaces:
   • Clean your siding, driveway, and decks to remove moss, dirt, and mildew that may have built up over the winter.
2. Inspect Your Foundation:
   • Check for cracks or signs of water intrusion and address any issues promptly to avoid structural damage.
3. Test Smoke and CO Detectors:
   • Replace batteries and test alarms to ensure your family’s safety.
4. Landscaping Prep:
   • Prune trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth and maintain curb appeal.
   • Aerate and reseed your lawn for a lush, green look.
5. Service Irrigation Systems:
   • Test your sprinkler system for leaks and ensure it’s working efficiently before the dry summer months.

Summer: Protect Against Heat and Dryness

Portland summers are typically dry and warm, which can stress your home’s exterior and landscaping.

1. Inspect Your Deck and Fence:
   • Check for loose boards, rot, or peeling paint. Reseal or repaint wooden surfaces to protect against sun and moisture damage.
2. Maintain Your Cooling System:
   • Clean or replace AC filters and ensure your system is running efficiently.
   • Consider adding ceiling fans or a mini-split for additional cooling in warmer spaces. It’s typical that finished attics can be challenging to cool in older Portland homes.
3. Water Wisely:
   • Water your lawn and garden early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
   • Use mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce water usage.
4. Check Exterior Paint and Caulking:
   • Inspect your home’s exterior for peeling paint or cracked caulking and address any issues to prevent future damage.
5. Inspect Trees for Dead Branches:
   • Remove any dead or weak branches that could pose a safety hazard during summer storms.

Fall: Get Ready for Cooler Weather

As the leaves turn, it’s time to prepare your home for the rainy season and colder temperatures.

1. Rake Leaves and Clear Gutters:
   • Remove leaves from your lawn and gutters to prevent clogs and maintain healthy grass.
   • Compost leaves and yard debris.
2. Inspect Windows and Doors:
   • Check for gaps or drafts and reseal as needed to keep the cold out and energy bills low.
3. Service Your Chimney:
   • Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned if you plan to use your fireplace during the winter.
4. Prepare Your Garden:
   • Trim perennials and plant bulbs for spring blooms.
   • Cover sensitive plants with burlap or bring them indoors.
5. Stock Up on Essentials:
   • Prepare for power outages by stocking up on batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable food items.

Year-Round Tips for Portland Homeowners

1. Monitor for Mold and Mildew:
   • Portland’s damp climate can encourage mold growth. Keep an eye on bathrooms, basements, and attics and address any signs promptly. Keeping water away from your foundation is paramount for longevity.
2. Stay on Top of Pest Control:
   • Watch for signs of pests like ants, termites, or rodents..
3. Conduct Routine Inspections:
   • Regularly walk around your property to check for damage or maintenance needs. Have a professional evaluate anything of concern.
4. Build a Maintenance Calendar:
   • Stay organized by scheduling seasonal tasks and setting reminders.

Tracey Henkels

Principal Broker | Earth Advantage | OR

She/Her

Tracey grew up rooted in the rhythms of her family’s Iowa apple orchard, where rising with the sun instilled a deep work ethic and a grounded, thoughtful approach to life. That Midwestern foundation shapes the values that Tracey brings to her clients: compassionate guidance, perseverance and a commitment to making a difference for the people she serves.

With a degree in Architecture from Iowa State University and six years of experience in the architecture field, Tracey has a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of how homes are built—literally and metaphorically. In 2004, she transitioned into real estate, combining her technical expertise with a passion for helping people find a sense of sanctuary and belonging.

Tracey is known for her integrity, patience, and optimism, making her a trusted advisor and advocate for our clients. She thrives on helping people navigate important transitions, whether buying their first home, selling a cherished property or finding the perfect place to put down long-term roots.

Tracey is deeply connected to her community and is passionate about making a meaningful impact beyond real estate. She’s been a resident of the Hosford-Abernethy neighborhood in SE Portland since 2002; you’ll often find her in her garden nurturing vegetables and flowers, hosting neighbors and friends, exploring Oregon’s great outdoors, or planning her next travel adventure. Through every step of her clients’ journeys, Tracey embodies the grounded guidance and thoughtful care that define Rooted Realty.

Tracey works as a team, alongside Kelsey Burkett, Broker Licensed in OR. You can read more about them on their website: Rooted Realty.

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• T: 503-715-6140
• traceyhenkels@gmail.com