The warmer weather is winding down and it seems fall is finally settling in our valley. All of us at Powell Construction are looking forward to the little things that make this season special—the crisp air, rich colors, smells of spices, cozy decor and warm feelings that autumn brings. It’s a season for gathering around the fireplace, spending more time with family, and settling back into our homes after a summer of yard work and outdoor projects.
As we’re all aware, here in the Pacific Northwest, fall also comes with a familiar reminder: the rain is coming! And while we love a good rainy day when we’re tucked inside with a warm cup of coffee, we want to make sure the rain stays where it belongs—outside. Because your home is one of your biggest investments, we thought we’d share some simple things worth checking before the Northwest rains settle in:
- Check Exterior Caulking—Look around windows, doors, siding joints, and other exterior openings for cracked, shrinking, or missing caulk. Re-caulk any gaps to help keep water from getting where it doesn’t belong.
- Clean Gutters & Downspouts—Clear leaves and debris from gutters to prevent blockages. If water is pooling near the foundation, extend or redirect downspouts to keep water moving well away from your home.
- Inspect Exterior Paint & Stain—Take a look at exposed wood, siding, and trim for peeling, cracking, or areas where the finish is wearing thin. Touch up or refinish as needed to maintain the protective layer of your home.
- Look for Signs of Moisture—Keep an eye out for water stains, musty smells, peeling paint, or areas that seem unusually damp. Investigate the source sooner rather than later before a small issue becomes a bigger one.
- Check Weatherstripping—Look around exterior doors and windows for worn or damaged weatherstripping. Replace it where needed to keep warm air in and cold air out.
- Start Your 2027 Project List—If you’ve been putting off that kitchen, bathroom, addition, or other home improvement project, fall is a great time to start thinking about it. Make a wish list, gather inspiration, set a budget, and give us a call when you’re ready!
From Our Designers: Creating a Sense of Fall Cozy Indoors
Of course, fall home preparation isn’t all about gutters and weatherproofing! We love the fun side of getting a home ready for the season, too. And the good news is, you don’t need to make big changes to create that warm, cozy feeling we all look forward to this time of year. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Embrace the scents of the season—Light a candle, make a simmer pot, or swap out your hand soaps so that your home not only looks cozy, but smells like fall from the moment you walk in.
Add warmth and texture—Bring in cozy throws, pillows, and textiles in rich autumnal tones.
Bring the outdoors in—Incorporate branches, greenery, rattan, or seasonal fruits and flowers. This photo shows how beautiful a simple, fall-inspired tablescape can be.
Layer your lighting—Add floor lamps, table lamps, candles, or string lights to create a softer, more welcoming glow.
