August has arrived and our homes can feel it. Here in the PNW, our August home maintenance suggestions focus on how to best prepare and protect our homes from summer heat stress, the transition to the inevitable upcoming rains, and any seasonal pest activity.

First and foremost, it’s been a smoky season…we think changing your furnace filter is a good idea. Not only will it be ready for the colder weather come fall, but it’s likely been working overtime at filtering out the worst of the smoke and other debris. New filters will keep your heat source running well without creating additional strain to the machine.

Next, if a good-looking lawn is important to you and you are inclined to continue throughout the warm days, water it deeply in the mornings to lessen the stress from this season, while limiting any water waste.

Third, bring your focus back to your windows and the pollen and dust (or ash) that’s likely settled there since you washed them in early spring. Get on your window washer’s schedule for a refresher or give them a quick once over yourself to ensure they’re looking good.

If you didn’t get a chance to walk around your exterior last month, now is your chance! As the weather shifts, pests will start looking for a good place for winter. If you have openings to your home that aren’t protected, they will come inside. Don’t let them by handling any issues you see now!

After walking around your home, consider pressure washing your sidewalks, driveways, patios and other high traffic areas. It will remove anything that’s collected over the summer and make it look better.