Getting Your Home Ready Before the First Winter Storm

This is the single most important item on the list. A gutter that's already clogged going into the rainy season is the most common cause of overflow, fascia damage, and foundation issues once the storms actually arrive.

Check that downspouts are clear all the way through and pointed to carry water at least a few feet away from the foundation, not just off the roof edge.

Roof valleys and shaded sections are the most common spots for moss and debris buildup to hide. Clearing them before the season's first heavy rain prevents that debris from turning into a dam that backs water up under shingles.

It's also worth checking for any loose or lifted shingles while you're at it, since those are far easier to fix before a storm than during one.

Gutter hangers, downspout brackets, and roof flashing all take a beating over a dry Sacramento summer. A quick check for loose fasteners or cracked sealant now can prevent a small gap from becoming a leak once the rain starts.

A lot of the damage we see every winter was preventable with a fall inspection that never happened. It takes less time than you'd think, and it's the cheapest insurance you can buy against a soggy surprise in January.