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How to Inspect Your Home After a Long Winter for Damage

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Start with the Roof and Gutters

A long winter can leave your roof with lifted shingles, cracked flashing, or clogged gutters. Use binoculars from the ground to spot missing or damaged shingles. If you can safely view the roof from a ladder, check around vents, chimneys, and skylights for gaps or rust. Ice dams may have pulled up the edges of roofing material.

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the eaves and into your walls. Clear out leaves and debris when the weather is dry. Look for sagging sections or loose downspouts. If you spot a problem, note it and consider calling a roofer for repairs before the next rain.

If you live in Kirkland, keep your shutoff valve location written down. The mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers can mean repeated freeze-thaw cycles that stress roof materials.

Check Siding and Exterior Walls

Walk around your home and inspect the siding for cracks, holes, or areas where paint is peeling. Wood rot often appears near the bottom edge of siding or around window frames. Press gently on suspicious spots with a screwdriver; if it sinks in, you have rot. Also check for gaps where siding meets corners or trim.

Look at the caulking around windows and doors. Winter weather can cause it to crack or pull away, letting water seep in. Reapply caulk where needed. Also check for any signs of insect activity, such as small holes or sawdust, which can indicate pests that may have found a way in during the cold months.

Inspect the Foundation and Exterior Drainage

Walk the perimeter of your home and look at the foundation for cracks, spalling, or bowing. Small hairline cracks are common, but larger gaps can let water into your basement or crawl space. Check that the soil slopes away from the foundation so runoff moves away from the house. Look for puddles near the foundation after a rain.

Examine the condition of your downspout extensions and splash blocks. They should direct water at least a few feet from the wall. If you have a sump pump or drainage system, test it to make sure it works. If you notice water pooling, improve the grading or extend the downspouts.

If you find a crack wider than a quarter inch or signs of water entry, consult a structural engineer or a water damage professional.

Move Inside and Look for Water Stains

Inside, start at the top floor and work down. Check ceilings and walls for yellow or brown stains, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall. These often signal a slow leak from the roof or plumbing. Also inspect around windows and doors for water marks or peeling paint. Use a flashlight to look in corners and behind furniture.

Feel walls and ceilings for dampness. Pay special attention to areas under bathrooms and kitchens. If you find a stain, probe it gently with a moisture meter if you have one. If the drywall is soft or crumbly, you have active water damage. Dry the area with fans and dehumidifiers, and call the pros to assess the extent.

If you notice a musty odor, that can indicate hidden moisture, which can lead to mold growth.

Don't Forget the Basement and Crawl Space

Basements and crawl spaces are prime spots for winter water damage. Look for efflorescence, a white chalky residue on walls, which indicates water evaporation. Check for standing water, damp insulation, or rust on stored items. Feel the floor for moisture, especially near walls. If you have a sump pump, test it.

In a crawl space, use a flashlight to inspect floor joists and sill plates for rot. Look for signs of rodents or insects. If you find mold or mildew, avoid disturbing it. Wear a mask and gloves if you need to clean. For a thorough evaluation, consider a professional water damage inspection service.

Remember that mold can affect your health. See a doctor if you feel unwell after being in a damp area.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I find water damage?

Dry the area immediately with towels, fans, and a dehumidifier. Move furniture away and remove wet carpets if possible. Take photos for your records. Then call local water damage pros to assess the extent and start proper drying and repairs.

How often should I inspect my home after winter?

Do a thorough inspection once a year after the last snow or heavy rain. Also do a quick check after any major storm. Regular checks help you catch small issues before they become expensive problems.

Can I inspect my roof myself?

You can do a ground-level check with binoculars, but for a close-up view, it's safer to hire a roofer. Roof work is dangerous. If you see damage, call a professional to repair it.

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