After Washington’s Recent Storm and Flooding: What Homeowners Should Inspect Around Their Home

Washington has just experienced another powerful storm system with heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, and widespread weather impacts across several communities. Even if your home appears unaffected at first glance, storm damage is not always obvious and small issues can turn into expensive repairs if they are not caught early.

If your home recently went through this storm, use this checklist to safely look over your property and identify potential concerns before they grow into bigger problems.

Start With a Safe Exterior Walk Around

Begin with a slow walk around the outside of your home. You are not trying to diagnose structural damage. The goal is simply to notice anything that seems out of place after the storm.

Check for:

• Missing, lifted, or curled shingles
• Gutters that are bent, clogged, or overflowing
• Siding that has cracked, separated, or shifted
• Branches or debris resting on your roof or near walls
• Soil erosion or water pooling near your foundation
• Mud lines, silt deposits, or signs water previously covered the area

If anything looks severe or unsafe, document it with photos and avoid climbing ladders or attempting dangerous repairs.

Roof Damage Is Not Always Obvious

Heavy wind and extended rain can reveal weaknesses in older roofs or accelerate minor damage that was already there.

Look for:

• Flashing around chimneys or vents that appears loose
• Areas of the roof that stay wet longer than surrounding areas
• Small dips or sagging sections
• Shingle granules collecting in gutters or on walkways

Even one compromised area can lead to moisture intrusion over time.

Flooding and Drainage Issues Require Attention

With the level of rainfall Washington just experienced, drainage performance is critical.

Inspect:

• Gutters for debris buildup
• Downspouts to ensure they are attached and directing water properly
• Signs water backed up against siding
• Foundation edges where water may have pooled
• Newly formed trenches or washed-out soil

Long-term water contact is one of the most common causes of structural and foundational problems in the Pacific Northwest.

Inspect Siding, Windows, and Doors for Wind Driven Rain Damage

Storm rain does not fall straight downward. Strong winds push moisture into seams and small gaps that may normally stay protected.

Look for:

• New cracking or separation in siding
• Moisture around exterior trim
• Water stains under windows
• Drafts or new air leaks near doors
• Condensation or fogging between window panes

Inside your home, check around windows, ceilings, and baseboards for fresh staining or bubbling paint.

Check the Attic, Ceilings, and Interior Spaces

Even if the roof looks fine from the ground, moisture can show up inside first.

Go into your attic if it is safe.

Look for:

• Damp or flattened insulation
• Dark staining on roof decking
• Condensation on nails
• Musty or damp smells

Inside the home:

• Inspect ceilings for new spots
• Check corners of rooms
• Look at walls around skylights, chimneys, and bathrooms

If anything seems damp, it is important to act early before mold or wood rot develops.

Outdoor Structures May Have Been Stressed

Decks, fences, pergolas, and exterior structures take a beating during Washington wind and rain events.

Check for:

• Loose railings
• Saturated deck boards
• Shifting posts
• Cracked framing
• Water pooling on flat deck areas

If you notice structural movement or instability, avoid using that area until inspected.

Pay Attention to New Changes You Notice

Not all problems are visible. If something feels different after the storm, trust that instinct.

Common subtle warning signs:

• Doors or windows suddenly sticking
• New drafts
• Higher humidity indoors
• New or unusual household odors
• Persistent dampness

Small shifts can indicate movement, swelling, or early moisture intrusion.

When You Should Call a Professional

Reach out to a qualified contractor, roofer, or waterproofing specialist if you notice:

• Active leaks
• Soft or damaged structural materials
• Confirmed roof damage
• Foundation or siding moisture
• Repeated water staining
• Situations that feel unsafe to inspect yourself

Early evaluation protects both your home and your investment.

Final Thought

Storms are part of living in the Pacific Northwest, but long-term damage does not have to be. A careful inspection after major weather events like the recent Washington storm can help you catch issues early, avoid expensive repairs, and maintain the safety and value of your home.