2026 Home Maintenance Checklist for Portland Homeowners: Month-by-Month Guide

2026 Portland Home Maintenance Guide

Owning a home in the Pacific Northwest requires a different playbook than the rest of the country. Our wet winters, damp springs, and increasingly hot summers create a unique cycle of wear and tear on your property. If you don't stay ahead of it, the "Portland damp" will find a way in.

Financial experts often cite the 1-4% rule - budgeting that percentage of your home's value for annual maintenance. For 2026, we’ve broken down exactly when you should spend that budget to get the maximum protection for your home. This month-by-month checklist is designed specifically for the Portland climate to help you prevent water damage, moss growth, and dry rot.

Winter (January - March): Defense & Cleanup

Start the year prepared. Our winter preparation guide covers everything you need before the cold sets in.

The start of the year in Portland is all about managing moisture and recovering from winter storms.

• January: Storm Aftermath Inspection. After the holiday season, walk your property. Look for fallen branches, loose shingles, or gutter damage from ice.
• February: Moss Control. As daylight returns, moss growth accelerates. This is a critical time for removing moss from your roof before it roots under your shingles. Treating it now prevents the need for aggressive cleaning later.
• March: Drainage Check. Ensure your downspouts are directing water away from your foundation. Portland's spring rains are coming, and clogged drains can cause foundation issues.

Spring (April - June): Deep Cleaning

When the rain softens to a drizzle, it’s time for serious exterior cleaning.

• April: Spring Gutter Cleaning. The "second fall" happens now, as trees drop seeds, pods, and blossoms. Cleaning gutters in spring is essential to prevent overflows during April showers.
• May: Soft Wash Siding. Winter grime and algae leave green stains on your siding. A professional soft wash restores your home's curb appeal and prevents mold from eating into paint or siding materials.
• June: Window Cleaning. Remove the winter film from your windows to let the summer sun in. It’s also a great time to inspect window seals for rot.

Summer (July - September): Prevention & Repair

Take advantage of the dry weather to tackle tasks that require low moisture.

• July: Roof Inspection & Repair. With the roof dry and safe to walk on, check for loose shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of dry rot.
• August: Concrete & Hardscape Sealing. Clean and seal driveways, patios, and walkways. This protects them from water penetration when the rains return.
• September: Pest Proofing. As nights get cooler, rodents look for warm homes. Seal gaps in crawl spaces and attics.

Fall (October - December): The Heavy Lift

This is the busiest season for Portland home maintenance. Preparation now saves you from emergency calls in January.

• October: Pre-Winter Roof Blow. Clear early falling leaves from the roof valleys to prevent moisture traps.
• November: The Big Gutter Clean. Once the majority of leaves have fallen, you need a thorough gutter cleaning and flush. This is the most important maintenance task of the year for Portlanders.
• December: Winterization & Lights. Disconnect hoses, cover spigots, and enjoy the season with professional Christmas light installation. It’s safer to hire pros than to climb slippery ladders yourself.

Essential Services to Budget For

While many items on this checklist are DIY-friendly, some require professional equipment and safety gear.

• Roof Cleaning: $300 - $800 (Every 2-3 years)
• Gutter Cleaning: $150 - $350 (Twice/year recommended)
• House Washing: $300 - $600 (Every 2 years)

By following this 2026 schedule, you aren't just cleaning your home - you're protecting your biggest investment from the specific challenges of our Pacific Northwest climate.

Ready to start your 2026 maintenance plan? Contact Seasons Cleaning Services to schedule your seasonal services today.