In Western Washington, storms are part of life — especially during the fall and winter months. Wind-driven rain, heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and saturated soil all pose serious risks to homes throughout Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue. The good news? Many types of storm damage can be prevented with regular maintenance and a few smart precautions. Here’s what every homeowner should know.
1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear Year-Round
One of the most common causes of roof leaks in the Seattle area is clogged gutters. When gutters fill with leaves, moss, or debris, rainwater has nowhere to go and starts backing up under roof shingles or pouring over the side of the home. This can cause water intrusion into your attic or behind siding.
Preventative Tip: Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year — ideally in late fall and early spring. Use leaf guards or screens if your home is near trees.
2. Trim Trees and Remove Hazardous Branches
Seattle’s combination of wet soil and high winds makes trees especially vulnerable during storms. Overhanging branches can break off and puncture roofs, knock down power lines, or cause serious structural damage.
Preventative Tip: Trim tree limbs away from your roof and have an arborist inspect large trees annually. Remove dead or leaning trees before winter hits.
3. Secure Loose Outdoor Items Before a Storm
High winds can turn patio furniture, planters, or trash bins into dangerous projectiles. Even small items can cause broken windows or siding dents when airborne.
Preventative Tip: Before a windstorm, bring in loose outdoor items or tie them down. Store tools and toys securely in a shed or garage.
4. Inspect Roofs, Windows, and Siding for Vulnerabilities
Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense. Small cracks, damaged flashing, or missing shingles can lead to major leaks during storms.
Preventative Tip: Perform a full inspection of your roof, siding, and windows each year. Look for loose shingles, peeling caulk, or soft spots around windows. Seal or repair these areas before heavy rain returns.
5. Make Sure Sump Pumps and Drainage Systems Are Working
In areas like Kent, Renton, and Federal Way, where high groundwater is common, sump pumps and exterior drainage play a critical role. If these fail during a storm, flooding can follow quickly.
Preventative Tip: Test your sump pump regularly and consider a backup battery system. Make sure yard grading and French drains direct water away from your foundation.
6. Prepare for Power Outages
Windstorms frequently knock out power in Western Washington. Without power, sump pumps, heaters, and alarms may stop working — increasing the risk of flooding and frozen pipes.
Preventative Tip: Consider installing a backup generator or battery system for critical systems. At minimum, have a storm emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water, and phone chargers.
7. Check Attic Insulation and Ventilation
In colder months, poor attic insulation can lead to ice dams — a dangerous condition where melting snow re-freezes at the roof edge, backing up water under shingles. This can lead to leaks, mold, and ceiling damage.
Preventative Tip: Make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. This helps maintain a consistent roof temperature and prevents ice buildup.
8. Install Storm-Resistant Windows and Doors (If Needed)
If your home has older single-pane windows or poorly sealed doors, wind-driven rain can seep in easily — especially during the strongest storms.
Preventative Tip: Upgrade to double-pane windows or storm windows if needed. Install quality weather stripping around all exterior doors and check thresholds annually.
Bonus: Review Your Insurance Policy Annually
Prevention is key, but so is having the right protection in case something does go wrong. Many homeowners don’t realize their policy excludes flooding or has low limits on wind-related repairs.
Preventative Tip: Review your homeowners insurance coverage each year and consider adding flood insurance, especially if you’re in a low-lying or high-risk area. Eco Water Restoration can help you understand your policy before and after damage occurs.
Need Help After a Storm? We’re Ready 24/7
No matter how much you prepare, storms can still bring surprises. If your home has suffered water damage, wind damage, or flooding, don’t wait to act. Our certified team is ready to respond within 60–90 minutes in most areas.
Call Eco Water Restoration at (253) 204-3646 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Contact us online for help or a free assessment
Specializing in water, flood, storm, and mold damage restoration, Eco Water Restoration is known for its quick and comprehensive service. The company excels at helping customers navigate the insurance claims process and works tirelessly to restore homes to their original state, making it appear as though the damage never occurred.
Zeke places customer satisfaction at the center of everything he does. His hands-on approach and dedication to providing excellent service are frequently mentioned in glowing reviews, where clients praise his attention to detail and commitment to quality. For Zeke, true fulfillment comes from knowing that he has helped clients restore and enhance their homes, providing peace of mind during stressful times.
If you are in need of reliable restoration services, Zeke Nistrian and Eco Water Restoration are the perfect choice. With a focus on customer care and superior quality, Zeke and his team are ready to deliver the best service and guide you through the process with professionalism and expertise.
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