Goodbye Sunshine, Hello Sweater Weather: How to Get Your Home Fall-Ready in Pierce County

It feels like summer just started, but those cooler mornings and early sunsets are already hinting at what’s ahead. Before we trade iced coffee for pumpkin spice, it’s the perfect time to get our homes ready for fall and winter.

As I often remind clients, a little maintenance now can save a lot of money and stress later. Here are a few essential tasks to check off your list this month to keep your home cozy, efficient, and well-protected through the rainy season.

1. Refresh Paint and Fences Before the Rains Arrive

If your home’s exterior or fence is looking a little tired, now’s the time to give it some love. Paint and stain need dry weather and moderate temps to cure properly — something we don’t get much of once fall settles in.
Whether your HOA has dropped a friendly reminder or you’re simply ready for a color refresh, getting this done early means your home will look great and stay well-protected all season long.

2. Clean Those Gutters

Gutter cleaning might not be glamorous, but it’s one of the best defenses against costly water damage. When leaves and debris clog your gutters, rainwater has nowhere to go — and that can lead to leaks, roof rot, or even foundation issues.
Pro tip: Here in Washington, our “30-year roofs” tend to live closer to 20 years because of the constant moisture. Keeping gutters clear and moss at bay can stretch that lifespan (and save you from early roof replacements).

3. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

There’s nothing worse than discovering your heat’s out on the first cold night of the year. A quick service appointment now ensures your system is ready to perform when you need it most.
While you’re at it, swap out your air filters — especially if you live near new construction or have pets. Cleaner air means fewer allergies and less strain on your HVAC system.

4. Prep Your Yard and Lawn

Fall is nature’s reset button. It’s the ideal time to prune trees and shrubs, clear out summer growth, and apply a slow-release, fall-specific fertilizer to your lawn.
Healthy grass roots now mean a lush, green yard come spring. You can also plant bulbs like tulips and daffodils to add some early color when winter finally breaks.

5. Bonus: Check Weather Seals and Outdoor Lighting

As daylight hours shorten, you’ll rely more on outdoor lighting — so make sure bulbs and fixtures are working properly. And while you’re at it, inspect doors and windows for drafts. Replacing worn weatherstripping can make a surprising difference in comfort and energy savings.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

With just a few weekend projects, you can head into the cooler months confident that your home is buttoned up and ready to handle whatever the Pacific Northwest skies deliver.

If you’d like recommendations for trusted local pros — from gutter cleaners to painters to HVAC specialists — reach out anytime. I’m always happy to connect you with reliable people who take great care of their clients (and their homes).