Winterizing Your Home in the Pacific Northwest: Preventing Mold, Maintaining Gutters, and Protecting Plumbing

The Pacific Northwest is known for its beautiful scenery, lush greenery, and—of course—its wet, chilly winters. If you’re a homeowner in Seattle or the surrounding King and Snohomish Counties, preparing your home for the colder, wetter months is essential. Winterizing helps maintain your property’s value, prevents costly damage, and keeps your home safe and comfortable all season long. Below are some of the most important winterizing tips: preventing mold, maintaining gutters, and protecting your plumbing.

1. Preventing Mold Growth

Moisture Control

• Keep an eye on high-humidity areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Proper ventilation and a dehumidifier can help keep moisture levels in check.

• Promptly repair any leaks in your roof or plumbing to avoid hidden water intrusion that can lead to mold growth.

Insulation and Airflow

• Insulate any crawl spaces, basements, or attics to prevent condensation.

• Ensure adequate airflow by regularly cleaning vents and filters, and consider installing exhaust fans in rooms that produce excess moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Regular Inspections

• Conduct routine checks for discoloration on walls, ceilings, or around windows where condensation may accumulate.

• If you notice mold, address the source of moisture immediately and consult a professional for safe removal if needed.

2. Maintaining Gutters

Clean Debris

• After the leaves have fallen, clear out your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. Backed-up water can freeze and cause damage to your roof and walls.

• Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the buildup of debris.

Repair and Secure

• Check for any cracks, loose sections, or corrosion in your gutters and downspouts. Repair or replace sections that are damaged.

• Ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation to avoid pooling and seepage into your basement or crawl space.

Regular Checks

• Inspect gutters again mid-winter to ensure they haven’t clogged with new debris or ice.

• Pay special attention after storms, as strong winds and falling branches can damage gutters unexpectedly.

3. Protecting Your Plumbing

Insulate Pipes

• Exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, or exterior walls, are vulnerable to freezing. Wrap them with foam insulation or use heat tape.

• Keep garage doors closed to help maintain warmer temperatures around pipes located inside or near the garage.

Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinklers

• Shut off and drain exterior faucets and sprinkler systems before the first freeze. Residual water can freeze, causing faucets or lines to burst.

• Disconnect garden hoses and store them indoors.

Keep a Steady Temperature

• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C) even if you’re traveling. This helps ensure pipes in colder areas of the home don’t freeze.

• If exceptionally cold weather is expected, open cabinet doors in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Ready to Talk Real Estate?

Winterizing your home is about preserving its condition and protecting your investment. Want additional tips or have questions about the local real estate market? I’m Joe Sheldon, a Seattle-based real estate expert serving King and Snohomish Counties. Feel free to reach out at (206) 751-2223 or email me at [email protected]. I’m here to help you navigate all aspects of homeownership—from maintenance tips to buying or selling in the Pacific Northwest.