End-of-Summer Home Checklist: 7 Fixes to Tackle Before Fall
☀️ Spokane summers are great - long days, backyard barbecues, and trips to the lake. But all that heat, dry air, and stormy weather can take a toll on your house. Before fall sets in, a quick home check can save you from bigger (and more expensive) problems later.
Here are 7 things every Spokane homeowner should look over before the leaves start to fall:
1. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts
Spokane’s summer storms and pine trees are a messy combo. Needles, twigs, and dirt clog up gutters fast, and the next heavy rain can send water spilling against your siding or foundation.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for water stains on siding near downspouts — that’s a sign things aren’t draining properly.
2. Check Exterior Caulking and Paint
The hot sun here bakes caulking until it cracks and pulls away. That lets in moisture once fall rains arrive. The same goes for paint — a quick touch-up now can prevent bigger paint or siding issues later.
💡 Pro Tip: Focus on south- and west-facing walls. They take the most sun and usually wear out first.
3. Test Outdoor Lighting
The days are about to get shorter. Porch lights, security lights, and pathway fixtures need to be ready before you’re fumbling in the dark at 5 p.m.
👉 Thinking about an upgrade? This is the perfect time to swap old fixtures for smart or security lighting.
4. Look Over Decks & Fences
Dry heat + sprinklers = cracked or warped boards. Loose railings or popped nails can also sneak up on you after a busy summer.
💡 Pro Tip: Walk across your deck barefoot — you’ll find every loose nail in seconds.
5. Service Your HVAC or Furnace
Spokane mornings will be chilly before you know it. Don’t wait for the first cold snap to find out your heat isn’t working.
👉 Swap filters now and schedule a tune-up so you’re not in line with everyone else when temps drop.
6. Check Under Sinks for Leaks
Summer humidity hides small leaks that turn into warped cabinets and water stains once it cools down. A quick look under kitchen and bathroom sinks can save you hundreds later.
7. Tighten Up the To-Do List
Loose cabinet hinges, dripping faucets, squeaky doors - these little fixes pile up fast. Crossing them off now keeps your home running smoothly into the new season.
The Bottom Line:
A little attention now means fewer surprises later. And if you’d rather save your time for football games, apple picking, or just enjoying a crisp Spokane fall weekend, hand your list over to us.
Emanuel Homes — Reliable home care and repairs, whenever you need it.
Safety Note:
Every home is different. Always use proper tools and follow safety guidelines for each project. Emanuel Homes isn’t responsible for injuries, damage, or “that didn’t go as planned” moments if you DIY. When in doubt, we’ll take care of it for you.
