Seattle, Washington – After multiple rounds of winter cold already tested homes across Washington, many homeowners are finding that overlooked winter prep issues don’t need extreme weather to cause damage. With colder conditions still common through February, the remaining weeks of winter leave little room for homes that aren’t fully prepared.
As temperatures continue to fluctuate between freezes and brief thaws, homes stressed earlier in the season remain vulnerable. Small issues missed during earlier cold snaps can worsen quickly, turning minor maintenance gaps into costly repairs if they aren’t addressed now.
Frozen pipes remain one of the most common problems statewide, especially in garages, crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls. Homes not built for prolonged freezing temperatures are particularly susceptible when overnight lows dip unexpectedly.
Blocked exterior vents are another frequently overlooked issue. Dryer, bathroom, and kitchen vents can become clogged with lint, leaves, snow, or ice, trapping moisture that freezes and forces airflow back into the home. These blockages can lead to interior moisture damage and increase fire risk when appliances cannot vent properly.
Ice dams have also caused damage in parts of western Washington during snow events followed by extended cold. Heat escaping through uneven attic insulation melts rooftop snow, which then refreezes along colder roof edges. Water backs up beneath shingles, damaging ceilings, insulation, and interior walls. Older homes in Seattle and surrounding communities are especially vulnerable.
Frozen sump pump discharge lines continue to be an issue during prolonged cold spells. When outlet pipes freeze solid, groundwater has nowhere to drain, increasing the risk of basement flooding once temperatures briefly rise.
Rounding out the top five is neglected heating equipment. Furnaces and heat pumps pushed hard earlier in the season can struggle if maintenance issues go unchecked, leading homeowners to rely on space heaters that strain electrical systems.
Residents are encouraged to insulate exposed pipes, clear debris from exterior vents, manage roof snow buildup safely, and ensure heating systems are operating efficiently. While winter’s coldest days may be past, lingering February cold means preparation still matters across Washington.
