Why Bother With Fall Maintenance?

Fall in Lacey, Olympia, DuPont, and around JBLM means cooler weather, wet days, and winter right around the corner. A little work now saves a lot of stress (and money!) later.

Think of it like giving your home a checkup before the cold sets in.

🛠️ Your Quick Fall Checklist

1. Clean the Gutters

• Clear out leaves and twigs

• Make sure water flows away from your house

• Add gutter guards if you want less work later

2. Check the Roof

• Look for missing or loose shingles

• Peek in the attic for leaks

• Remove moss before it spreads

3. Get the Heat Ready

• Change your furnace filter

• Schedule a heating system check

• Use your fireplace? Get the chimney cleaned

4. Stop the Drafts

• Check windows and doors for gaps

• Add weatherstripping or caulk where needed

• Bonus: saves money on heating bills

5. Protect Pipes

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, garages, or crawl spaces

• Disconnect hoses outside

• Shut off outdoor faucets and add covers

6. Tidy the Yard

• Rake up leaves

• Trim trees and shrubs away from your home

• Fertilize your lawn for a better spring

• Store hoses and tools

7. Safety Check

• Test smoke and CO detectors

• Swap in fresh batteries

• Check your fire extinguisher

👍 Extra Tip for Landlords

If you rent out a home in Lacey, Olympia, or DuPont, fall is the perfect time for a seasonal walk-through. Tenants don’t always notice small issues like leaks or drafts — fixing them early keeps your property in good shape.

✅ The Bottom Line

Fall maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Do a little at a time, and your home will be ready for whatever winter throws at it.

🍁 Tip: Pick one or two tasks each weekend. By Thanksgiving, you’ll be done — and stress-free.