Every Seattle homeowner knows the drill. The clouds roll in, the drizzle starts, and suddenly, you’re smack in the middle of the rainy season. But what if this year, instead of reacting to the rain, you got ahead of it? What if your home was ready—not just for a few showers, but for the relentless gray skies, steady downpours, and damp days ahead?
Living in Seattle means embracing the rain, but it doesn’t mean letting it wreak havoc on your home. From moldy basements and slippery walkways to roof leaks and poor drainage, the rainy season can cause real damage if you’re not prepared. This guide is your all-in-one resource to get your home in shape—smartly, thoroughly, and with a little local wisdom.
Why Seattle’s Rainy Season is a Big Deal
Seattle averages 152 rainy days per year, but it’s not just about how often it rains—it’s about how consistently it does. The rainy season typically stretches from October through April, with November, December, and January being the wettest months.
Thanks to Seattle’s proximity to the Puget Sound and its unique topography, moisture hangs in the air longer, and the rain lingers. Combine that with historic homes, older plumbing systems, and city-specific building codes, and you’ve got the perfect storm for water-related issues.
Start With the Roof—Your First Line of Defense
Let’s be real: if your roof isn’t solid, nothing else matters. Seattle rain is persistent, and it will find its way in through the tiniest cracks.
What You Should Check:
- Missing or curling shingles
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Signs of water damage in the attic
- Moss or algae growth (super common in the PNW!)
💡 Pro tip: Don’t just eyeball your roof from the ground—get up there (safely) or hire a professional inspection before the rains really kick in.
Gutters and Downspouts: Keep the Flow Going
Seattle’s wet season can dump gallons of water in just hours. If your gutters are clogged or improperly sloped, all that water ends up around your foundation or, worse, in your basement.
Gutter Prep Checklist:
- Clean out all debris, including moss, leaves, and pine needles
- Make sure downspouts extend at least 4-6 feet from the house
- Install gutter guards if trees overhang your home
- Check for leaks and sagging sections
Seal It Up: Windows, Doors, and Cracks
Seattle homes, especially older ones, tend to shift and settle over time, creating tiny gaps that moisture loves.
Here’s what to do:
- Inspect window caulking and door seals
- Apply weatherstripping where needed
- Fill cracks in siding or brick with waterproof sealant
👀 Even small air leaks can invite in moisture, leading to mold, drafts, and higher heating bills.
Basement and Crawl Space Waterproofing
Basements are notorious for leaking in Seattle. Between high water tables and heavy rain, you’ve got to be proactive.
Consider:
- Installing a sump pump or checking the one you already have
- Adding a vapor barrier in your crawl space
- Sealing basement walls with waterproof paint
- Checking for existing mold or mildew
If it smells musty down there, it’s already too late to wait.
Don’t Forget Drainage Around the Property
Poor drainage is a silent threat. You won’t notice it until you’ve got pooling water, foundation cracks, or water in your basement.
Here’s how to fix it:
- Grade your yard so water flows away from your house
- Add gravel trenches or French drains in trouble spots
- Clean out storm drains near your property
- Consider a rain garden to manage runoff (plus, it’s very Seattle!)
Siding and Exterior Paint
Wood siding? It needs extra love in Seattle. All that rain means extra vulnerability to rot, warping, and pests.
Tips for Maintenance:
- Inspect for peeling paint, gaps, and soft spots
- Repaint or reseal every 5-7 years (especially south- and west-facing walls)
- Check flashing around windows and doors
Prepare Outdoor Areas Too
Slippery decks, mossy sidewalks, and waterlogged lawns are just part of the deal here.
Outdoor Prep List:
- Power wash decks and walkways
- Apply anti-slip treatments where needed
- Trim back plants and bushes to prevent excess moisture buildup
- Store outdoor furniture or cover it properly
Heating and Ventilation: Keep Things Dry Inside
When it rains constantly, indoor humidity skyrockets. That’s a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
What You Should Check:
- Clean your HVAC filters
- Use a dehumidifier in the basement or musty areas
- Ensure bathroom and kitchen fans are working well
- Crack windows periodically to let air circulate (even if it’s chilly)
The Best Products to Weatherproof Your Seattle Home
Choosing durable materials is key in our wet climate. The best manufacturers understand the unique needs of PNW homeowners, offering products built to withstand months of rain, wind, and moisture.
Top Manufacturers:
- CertainTeed – High-quality roofing and siding built for moisture control and durability.
- Andersen Windows – Their products are designed to keep drafts and moisture out while offering energy efficiency.
- Owens Corning – Industry leader in roofing shingles and insulation products suited for wet climates.
- James Hardie – Their fiber cement siding is a favorite in Seattle for its resistance to water and pests.
- GAF – Trusted for long-lasting roofing materials that handle heavy rain with ease.
FAQs – What Seattle Homeowners Are Asking
How often should I clean my gutters in Seattle?
At least twice a year, once in late fall and again in early spring. More if you’re near trees.
What’s the best way to keep my basement dry?
Start with grading and gutters, then look into sump pumps and sealing the interior walls.
Can moss damage my roof?
Absolutely. It traps moisture against shingles and can lead to leaks. Treat and remove it early.
Is it worth upgrading my windows?
Yes—modern windows prevent drafts and moisture intrusion and can significantly cut heating costs.
Do I need permits for drainage improvements?
Sometimes. Check the City of Seattle’s Department of Construction & Inspections for specific requirements.
Wrapping It Up: Your Rain-Ready Checklist
Here’s a quick summary to get your home ready for Seattle’s rainy season:
- Inspect and repair your roof
- Clean gutters and extend downspouts
- Seal windows, doors, and cracks
- Waterproof basements and crawl spaces
- Improve property drainage
- Maintain siding and exterior paint
- Prep outdoor surfaces
- Ventilate and dehumidify interior spaces
Ready to Protect Your Home?
Don’t wait for the first big storm to remind you what needs fixing. Take action now, and enjoy peace of mind through every drizzle and downpour.
If you’ve got questions, want a second opinion, or just need help figuring out where to start, contact us at (480) 999-6134—we’d love to talk about your home remodeling needs.