Home Maintenance Checklist by Season

A solid home maintenance plan can help keep your home safe and comfortable all year round. It may also help prevent costly repairs and extend your home’s life span, from the roof to the garage door. 

But we get it — keeping track of everything can feel overwhelming, and finding or creating your own monthly home maintenance checklist can take a lot of time and energy. That’s why we’ve created this seasonal home maintenance checklist. It’s an easy-to-follow and categorized plan, so you can tackle each task with confidence. 

Spring Home Maintenance

The spring season is the perfect time to refresh and revitalize your home. Here’s your spring home maintenance checklist. 

Interior

It’s time for spring cleaning! Ensure you go over the following tasks: 

• Clean or replace heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) filters to improve air quality. 
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. 
• Test all light fixtures and replace bulbs if necessary.
• Check windows and doors for drafts — caulk and seal any gaps. 
• Deep clean carpets and upholstery. 
• Inspect the attic for signs of leaks, mold or pests. 
• Inspect the basement for water damage or mold. 
• Clean dryer vents to reduce fire risks. 
• Flush the water heater to remove any sediment buildup. 

Exterior

Give your home’s exterior a fresh look: 

• Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles. 
• Clean gutters and downspouts for proper drainage. 
• Test and adjust outdoor lighting. 
• Wash exterior windows and check screens for any holes. 
• Inspect siding for cracks, peeling paint or damage. 
• Inspect, clean and lubricate the garage door opening system. 
• Check driveway and pathways for cracks. 
• Clean and inspect outdoor HVAC units and clear away debris. 
• Power wash decks, patios and walkways. 
• If applicable, clean and inspect the pool area before filling.

Garden

Let your garden flourish and add these tasks to the list: 

• Clear away dead branches, leaves and other debris from the yard. 
• Inspect fences and gates for any damage and repair if needed. 
• Prepare lawn equipment for the upcoming season. 
• Start planting spring flowers and shrubs. 
• Aerate cool-season grass for healthy grass growth. 
• Fertilize the lawn to keep it lush during the hot weather. 
• If desired, set up a garden irrigation system for the upcoming season. 

Summer Home Maintenance

Hotter weather is here! Let’s go over the summer home maintenance checklist. 

Interior

Keep your home cool with the following tasks: 

• Check and clean ceiling fans. 
• Inspect the plumbing for leaks — check under sinks and around toilets. 
• Deep clean the kitchen, including behind appliances and inside cabinets. 
• Inspect windows and doors for wear and tear and replace any stripping. 
• Test the home security system for any malfunctions. 
• Check the attic insulation for energy efficiency during the hot weather. 
• Clean refrigerator coils for energy efficiency. 
• Inspect the basement for excess humidity — consider using a dehumidifier if needed. 

Exterior

Protect the outside of your home from the blazing sun: 

• Inspect the roof for possible moss or algae growth, and clean as needed. 
• Restain or reseal the deck to protect it from the summer sun. 
• Examine your garage door’s cables, hardware and safety features. 
• Clean and inspect the gutters for debris after spring rains. 
• Wash and inspect the siding for any damage or signs of pests. 
• Pressure wash the driveway to remove dirt and stains. 
• Inspect window screens for holes. 

Garden

Ensure your garden stays healthy and hydrated: 

• Mow the lawn regularly and water it deeply for a healthy yard. 
• Trim plants and trees to get the desired shape. 
• Weed the garden and apply mulch to keep plants healthy. 
• Inspect and maintain the garden’s irrigation system, adjusting for hotter weather. 
• Check outdoor furniture for wear and clean it for summer use. 
• Harvest summer produce from the garden — if applicable. 

Fall Home Maintenance

Fall is upon us, which means it’s time to prepare for the upcoming colder weather. Use this fall home maintenance checklist as a guide. 

Interior

Create a safe and comfortable space in your home: 

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before winter. 
• Clean and inspect the fireplace or wood stove and have the chimney swept. 
• Schedule a professional furnace inspection and replace filters. 
• Inspect the windows and doors for drafts — seal gaps and install storm windows if needed. 
• Deep-clean carpets — especially in high-traffic areas. 
• Inspect the attic for proper insulation to prepare for winter. 
• Check the basement for any leaks or water damage before the colder season. 

Exterior

Ensure your home’s exterior is robust and ready for winter: 

• Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles before the winter storms. 
• Clean out gutters to prevent ice dams. 
• Check outdoor lighting. 
• Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off exterior faucets to avoid frozen pipes. 
• Inspect your garage door’s insulation, lubricate its moving parts, check the rollers and ensure the tracks are clear. 
• Inspect the siding and exterior paint and touch up as needed 
• Inspect driveways and walkways for cracks, and contact a professional for repairs before snow and ice arrive. 

Garden

Prepare your garden for the colder season: 

• Rake and compost fallen leaves. 
• Plant bulbs for spring flowers like tulips and daffodils. 
• Fertilize the lawn to help it recover from the summer’s heat. 
• Winterize garden equipment by draining or stabilizing fuel from lawn mowers and trimmers. 
• Protect outdoor furniture by covering it or moving it indoors. 
• Mulch flower beds to protect plants from frost. 
• Clean and store gardening tools for winter. 

Winter Home Maintenance

Although winter brings extreme cold, don’t let that stop you from protecting your home. Let’s review this winter home maintenance checklist. 

Interior

Keep your home warmer and safer with these tasks: 

• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Schedule a radon test — radon levels are typically higher during the heating season.
• Inspect windows and doors for drafts, and use insulation film or weather stripping if necessary. 
• Check the attic and basement for any signs of leaks, mold or pests. 
• Inspect plumbing for leaks and check the insulation around pipes to prevent them from freezing. 
• Deep clean kitchen appliances, including the refrigerator and oven. 
• Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down. 
• Flush out the water heater to remove any sediment buildup. 
• Monitor indoor humidity levels — use a humidifier if needed for added comfort. 

Exterior

Snow and ice are at its peak. Ensure the outside of your home stays clear: 

• Inspect the roof for ice dams and remove snow buildup to prevent leaks. 
• Check exterior lighting. 
• Monitor your garage door’s performance and check its bottom seal to keep the cold and pests out. 
• Check exterior pipes and faucets for freezing, insulating where necessary. 
• Inspect whether gutters are clear from debris to prevent ice dams. 
• Inspect driveways and walkways for ice patches and apply salt or sand as needed. 
• Keep outdoor HVAC units clear of snow and ice. 
• Inspect the siding for any damage from winter storms. 

Garden

Your garden may need extra care during colder temperatures: 

• Clear snow off trees and shrubs to prevent branches from breaking. 
• Protect plants from frost and cover them with burlap or frost cloth. 
• Plan for spring planting and organize seeds and gardening tools. 
• Stock bird feeders for winter wildlife. 
• Check fences and gates for any damage after heavy snow. 
• Clean up fallen limbs and debris after storms. 
• Prune live tree branches to encourage new growth in the springtime.

Upgrade to a Strong, High-Quality Garage Door Today

With this list, you’ll keep every corner of your home in top shape. Know that you don’t have to carry responsibility for each and every task — you can hire help if needed. When it comes to your garage door, Oregon City Garage Door is here to help. 

We offer comprehensive garage door maintenance, installation and repair services to ensure your doors work smoothly year-round. We can also help with emergency repairs and the installation of a brand-new garage door. 

We’re ready to help you — request an estimate online or contact us to learn more about our seasonal tuneup services.

What You Should Know About Moving to Portland, Oregon

Moving is a big deal — according to psychologists, it’s one of life’s most significant events. Choosing a place you love can help ease the anxiety, which is why it’s so important to do your due diligence and research your new city before buying a place. 

Should you move to Portland, Oregon? That depends on several different factors. Explore the ins and outs of moving to this great city below.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Portland

So, is it really worth it to move to Portland? Asking what matters most to you and your family is key to finding the answer here. Understanding the key pros and cons can also help! Check out the following advantages and disadvantages of living in the City of Roses.

Benefits of Moving to Portland, OR

Those who stay in Portland tend to love their homes, and for good reason — Portland is full of character, and there are plenty of things to do for residents of all ages, especially those who enjoy spending time in nature.

Some of the high points of living in Portland include:

• Access to nature: Outdoor recreation is a big deal with people in the Pacific Northwest, and Portland is an excellent place for it! In addition to the various hiking trails within the city limits, you can easily get to many of Oregon’s natural hotspots by car.
• Walkability: Portland is an easy city to navigate on foot, with adequate walking paths and plenty of public transportation options available. 
• Quirky culture: The city’s unofficial motto is “Keep Portland Weird” for a reason! It’s one of the artsiest cities in the United States, with plenty of museums and galleries to explore and a popping craft beer scene. The locals embrace uniqueness and individuality, and the city is welcoming and inclusive to people from all backgrounds. 
• Good education: Portland has many reputable public and private schools, so you can ensure your children receive a high-quality education.
• Environmental sustainability: Experts ranked Portland as the country’s greenest city in 2024, and the local commitment to sustainability proves it. Reusable bottles and containers are big here, and most residents put a huge emphasis on composting and recycling. 
• Beautiful summers: While the Pacific Northwest has a reputation for being rainy and dark, the summers here are gorgeous with long days. Temperatures are mild, the sun is often shining and the rain makes the surrounding vegetation lush and green. 
• Varied architecture: The homes in Portland range from turn-of-the-century Victorians to 1940s ranches — often in the same neighborhoods as modern houses. You won’t find cookie-cutter housing developments here! 
• No sales tax: Oregon is one of five states that does not impose a sales tax on goods and services. If you need to make a big purchase, you’ll save a little extra by making it here. 

Drawbacks of Moving to Portland, OR

As with any other urban area, Portland has some points you might want to consider before house hunting:

• Crime: You may be wondering if Portland is safe to live in. While the city of Portland’s crime rates have risen over the past few years, your experience will vary depending on where you are. The suburbs are typically quite safe, especially compared to the downtown area. Checking the police bureau’s monthly crime dashboard can help you understand which neighborhoods would be best for you and your family.
• Unhoused individuals: Although the rising number of unhoused people in Portland has been a large issue in recent years, it’s inspired amazing community initiatives and social justice work in the area. For example, the city has spent more than $1 billion on affordable housing initiatives, and plenty of volunteer opportunities are available to those who enjoy helping out.
• Cost of living: The median selling price for a Portland home is $490,000 as of 2024, making it one of the most affordable cities on the West Coast. While the city does have a higher cost of living compared to many other parts of the country, this reflects the region’s rapidly expanding technology sector and job market, as well as the major housing boom.

• Gray winters: Portland is beautiful and mild in the summer, and like much of the Pacific Northwest, its winters tend to be gray and rainy with noticeably shorter days. That said, these winters are essential for the lush, green summers that are so unique to the region.

• Traffic: Even though Portland is significantly smaller in population size than Seattle, the city’s traffic has increased over the years due to a large influx of people moving to the area. Fortunately, the excellent public transit system and pedestrian-friendly design make it easy to get around despite any busyness.
• Hazy summers: Nearby wildfires occasionally blow smoke over the city in the late summer, which can impact air quality and leave a noticeable haze in the air. Following the local government’s safety recommendations can help you stay safe and healthy during these times.

Buying a House in Portland, Oregon

There’s one very important question you’ll have to answer before moving on in the process — are you planning on renting or buying your new home? According to the most recent available data, the median rent in Portland is just over $1,500 per month. This number is lower than rents in many of the surrounding areas, including:

• Sherwood
• Happy Valley
• Oregon City
• Milwaukie
• West Linn

For most families, buying a house is the most sustainable option. If you’re specifically planning on buying a home in Portland, following these steps can help make the process a little easier.

1. Understand Your Financial Health

It’s a good idea to make sure you’re financially ready to buy a home, especially in higher-cost areas like Portland. Some important steps to take here include:

• Checking your credit score: Your credit score directly influences your mortgage interest rates. If you’re worried about your check affecting your score, try running a soft inquiry — regardless of your findings, a soft inquiry will not impact your credit score like a hard inquiry would.
• Providing work history: Lenders are more likely to approve your mortgage if you can prove you have a steady history of employment. Improve your chances by being ready to answer any questions about gaps in your resume.
• Calculating home affordability: You can use free online calculators to determine what kinds of costs you might be facing when buying a new home.

2. Plan for Associated Costs

Once you know what’s in your budget, it’s time to start preparing for your down payment. The specific amount will vary depending on what type of mortgage you choose and whether you opt to purchase private mortgage insurance. 

While down payments traditionally come to about 20% of the home’s price, the average U.S. down payment hovers closer to 15% today. You may even be able to name your own down payment price, depending on your lender.

Closing costs are also important to plan for, as many first-time buyers don’t expect to pay anything else after closing. Typically, you’re looking at a closing cost of about 2% to 5% of the listing price — but it’s important to remember that your costs may vary.

3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Applying for a mortgage pre-approval is important for two reasons — it helps you understand how much you can borrow to finance your new home and demonstrates your seriousness about homeownership to potential lenders. 

Understanding what types of mortgages are available to you is essential for navigating this step, as you will need this information to determine which arrangement is best for your situation. Your options will vary depending on several factors, including but not limited to:

• Income
• Occupation
• Credit score
• Location
• Lender

Looking for lenders with the best rates can help new homebuyers afford a new home much easier. 

4. Start the Home Search

You can work with an agent or browse listings on sites like Zillow and Redfin. You could also do a combination of the two if you already have a solid vision of what you’re looking for. 

Once you find some homes you’re interested in, try to visit them in person to ensure you like what you see. You have several options to do this:

• Attend open houses: Open houses are great opportunities to see the house, ask any questions you have and show your interest. Use this time to explore the neighborhood and make sure you feel comfortable with the location beyond your property. 
• Tour with an agent: Working with a real estate agent allows you to use their connections to find great listings you may have been unable to find online. They can then arrange tours for you — all you have to do is make sure you have enough time to show up!
• Tour online: If you live far away and can’t make an in-person visit, you can always ask to tour the property via video chat. The seller or their agent can walk you through the home and point out any details you need to know. The biggest issue with this arrangement is that you won’t be able to inspect everything with your own eyes. 

Remember, having a shortlist of homes you like is best in case your first choice doesn’t work out.

5. Make an Offer and Schedule an Inspection

Once you’ve found a home you want to move into, it’s time to make your offer. The key is to make it as attractive as possible for the seller so they’re more likely to accept — but you want to avoid going overboard to make sure you win in the end. 

The seller might make a counteroffer, which you can accept or reject. You can also negotiate for a better deal if you feel comfortable. 

If your offer gets accepted, you’ll sign a purchase agreement. This is the perfect time to schedule a home inspection and appraisal with an expert, as this information is necessary for securing a good mortgage. Note that you may need to make some adjustments to your budget if the appraiser finds something objectionable. 

Also, consider any upgrades you’d like to make, such as a new garage door, to your new property. 

6. Closing the Sale

After you’ve gone through all the above steps and you’re ready to call the house your home, you’ll close the deal. This step involves:

• Paying closing costs.
• Signing necessary paperwork.
• Obtaining your new keys.

After meeting with all the relevant parties, you’ll sign the closing agreement and make the first payments on your new home. 

What to Expect When Moving From Seattle to Portland

Portland is less than three hours from Seattle by car, but the cities are quite different. When you know what kinds of changes you might be facing, you’ll be able to minimize the culture shock.

Some of the biggest differences between the two include:

• Better public transit: Portland has a more connected public transit system than Seattle, where there are often gaps between routes. It’s also a smaller city, making it significantly easier to navigate.
• Smaller city vibes: Seattle is a significantly larger city than Portland, with approximately 759,915 people in 2024. While Portland’s population is only a little smaller, many people who move there from Seattle find that it has a more laid-back, small-town atmosphere. 
• Accessibility: Portland is generally more walkable than Seattle, with a human-centric design that provides plenty of space for safe walking. You can easily get by in Portland without a car, while a vehicle is a necessity in Seattle. 
• Lower cost of living: Although prices in Portland have risen over the past decade, it’s still more affordable than in Seattle. Just compare the current median home selling prices — at $883,000 in Seattle and $519,000 in Portland, it’s clear the latter is more manageable for most people.

Of course, you’re still in the Pacific Northwest, which means you’ll recognize a lot of similarities between Seattle and Portland. Some key examples include:

• Coffee culture: Although the coffee scene is a little more relaxed than in Washington, Portlanders take their coffee just as seriously. You’ll find plenty of national and local roasters, cozy cafes and coffee carts to satisfy your caffeine cravings. 
• Outdoor activities: People from Washington and Oregon generally love being out and about in nature — and Portland is no different. If you love hiking, biking, kayaking and more, you’ll find an abundance of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors here.
• Weather patterns: Because they share the same longitude,Seattle and Portland experience similar weather throughout the year. Seattle natives will feel right at home.

Does Your New Portland Home Need a Garage Door Upgrade?

Should you move to Portland, Oregon? If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and you’re looking for a small city with a vibrant culture and friendly people, Portland might just be the place for you. 

Wherever you find your new Portland home, you’ll probably want to add some finishing touches to make it 100% yours. That’s where we come in. At Oregon City Garage Door, we carry a wide variety of residential garage doors to suit any aesthetic or garage size. We also back all our work with a strong warranty, so you can have peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case any issues arise.

Contact us today to speak with a team member or to request a free estimate. We can’t wait to welcome you to Portland!

What Color Should I Paint My Garage Door?

Whether you’re trying to refresh your home’s look or add a splash of personality, we’re here to guide you through the process of choosing the ideal color for your garage door. Oregon City Garage Doors is a trusted and insured garage door dealer in the Oregon City and Portland areas. We have more than 25 years of experience installing and servicing residential garage doors.

What Color to Paint Your Garage Door

We understand that selecting the right color for your garage door is more than just a cosmetic choice — it’s an important decision that can significantly affect your home’s curb appeal.

What Color to Paint a Garage Door on a White House

A white house offers a blank canvas for creative expression. When it comes to selecting a color for your garage door, you have nearly infinite options. Here are some popular choices to consider:

• Classic contrast: For a modern look, black or dark gray garage doors create a striking contrast with a white house.
• Soft neutrals: Beige or taupe are warm and neutral. They add a soft, complementary touch to a white home. Light grey provides a subtle contrast without being too bold.
• Traditional white: If you prefer a seamless, understated appearance, painting your garage door the same shade of white as your home creates a uniform look.
• Bold statements: A deep navy blue or a rich emerald green both provide a refreshing contrast. They’re unique choices that add your personality to your home.

What Color to Paint a Garage Door on a Brick House

Choosing the right color for your garage door on a brick house involves a balance between harmonizing with the brick and adding a stylish touch. Some considerations to help you make the perfect choice:

• Complementary colors: If your brick is in a warm tone — reds or oranges — choose neutral colors like white, cream or light grey. These colors provide a pleasant contrast without clashing with the brick.
• Bold contrast: For a more dramatic look, consider dark colors such as charcoal, navy or black. These colors give your home a modern and sophisticated look.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, your personal taste plays a significant role. Choose a color that you love.

Pros and Cons of Painting Your Garage Door

Here are some of the pros of painting your garage door:

• Increased property value: A well-maintained, stylish garage door can boost your home’s market value.
• Personalization: Painting your garage door allows you to express your style and complement your home’s existing architecture and color scheme.

Of course, painting your garage door also comes with some downsides, including:

• Maintenance required: Painted surfaces may need periodic touch-ups and maintenance to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
• Color fading: Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather conditions can cause paint to fade, requiring repaints to maintain the desired look.
• Potential for peeling: Poor preparation or low-quality paint can lead to peeling and chipping.

Buy a New Garage Door From Oregon City Garage Door

If you want to avoid painting your garage, buy a new garage door with the color you had in mind. Browse our selection of new garage doors and learn more about our services — we can even haul your old garage door away for you. We’re confident that we have a residential door in our inventory that you will love, and you’re protected by a one-year warranty on all new garage door installations.

A Comprehensive Guide to Attached vs. Detached Garages

Garages are helpful extra spaces for your home to store vehicles, holiday decor, workshop tools and other belongings. Whether you want to add a garage to your current home or are building a new one, you have a couple of options. Detached vs. attached garages have their own benefits, so you can pick the best choice for your home.

The Difference Between Attached and Detached Garages

The primary difference between attached and detached garages is where they are located. Attached garages are connected to your home with a shared wall and direct access into your house. Alternatively, a detached garage is a free-standing, separate building from your house — often located a few feet to several yards away.

Benefits of an Attached Garage

Attaching your garage to your home offers unique advantages, including:

• Convenience: You can conveniently pull your vehicle inside during inclement weather with an attached garage. Storage is also easily accessible in your garage without having to step outdoors. 
• Straightforward insurance: When deciding between an attached vs. detached garage, insurance coverage can help you decide. Attached garages are considered a part of the main dwelling, meaning if your home is insured, so is your garage.
• Less expensive: If budgeting is a concern, attached garages cost less than detached garages since one wall already exists. Building an addition instead of starting from scratch can save you money.

Benefits of a Detached Garage

Detached garages are very different but still offer their own benefits. While they are separate buildings, many people opt for a detached garage because they provide:

• Flexibility: A detached garage allows greater flexibility in size and location. You can customize the size of your garage to fit more cars or be a workshop, and you can even leave room to add on later if you wish.
• Increased security: Without direct entry into your home, your family and valuables are safe from intruders. Detached garages also reduce the risk of potential fires reaching your home.
• Less noise: A separate building will reduce the amount of noise inside your house if your garage doubles as a woodworking or automobile shop. This benefit can be a selling point for your home as well. 

Consider Your Garage Door Options at Oregon City Garage Door

If you’re still deciding, Oregon City Garage Door professionals can help. We will walk you through your options and can customize any garage door to fit your needs. Contact us for a free estimate today.

Best Type of Garage Door for a Pole Barn Garage

With its wide open spaces and high ceilings, a pole barn design is one of the most popular detached garage styles. While planning your garage build, every detail must be thought out — including the right garage door for the right garage.

Let’s discuss some garage door options for your pole barn garage. 

Pole Barn Garage vs. Stick-Built Garage

In the world of detached garages, two styles reign supreme — pole barn and stick-built garages. While you may be more familiar with stick-built construction methods, many homeowners prefer the ease and durability of pole barn garages.

Stick-built garages have a concrete foundation with a wood-framed structure built piece by piece on top of the foundation. This type of construction allows for more walls and customization options. 

Pole barns were originally used in agriculture. This type of garage uses post-frame construction methods, with durable wooden poles driven deep into the ground. These posts serve as the main framing elements for the garage. Pole barn garages are quick, durable builds that tend to be more affordable.

What Is the Best Type of Garage Door for a Pole Barn Garage?

There are two main types of pole barn doors — sliding and overhead. While sliding doors are the more traditional option for agricultural pole barn constructions, an overhead door offers more benefits for detached garages: 

• Automated: Overhead pole barn garage doors can be used with automatic door openers. Most people don’t want to jump out of their car to pull in or out of their garage, so automation is a huge benefit.
• Sealed: Most sliding doors are not sealed, which can allow dirt, moisture, bugs and other critters inside. Overhead doors are sealed to protect the interior.
• Insulated: Insulation means you can better control temperatures, allowing you to utilize this space for more than storage. Keep your car, equipment and anything else you own in your garage safe from extreme temperatures
• Cost: While overhead doors tend to cost more than sliding pole barn doors, this price tag comes with a lot of benefits, including modern features and often a manufacturer’s warranty. 

Need Help Finding a Garage Door for Your Pole Barn Garage?

If you need help finding the right door for your pole barn garage, turn to the experts at Oregon City Garage Door. We can discuss your ideas to help you find a perfect option. We also offer free estimates on new garage door installations. Request a quote online or give us a call at 503-664-9982.