Sacramento’s wettest stretch hits mid-winter. Prevent damage by clearing gutters, checking roof flashing, adding downspout extensions, sealing around windows and doors, grading soil away from the house, and staging a small outage kit. Call a pro if you see stains, soft wood, or standing water.
5-Minute Home Scan (do this today)
- Roofline: any missing or curled shingles, cracked tiles, or loose ridge caps?
- Gutters: visible debris or slow outlets? Scoop and flush.
- Downspouts: add 3–10 ft extensions away from the foundation.
- Windows/doors: cracked caulk or swollen trim? Reseal.
- Inside: ceiling rings, musty smell, or soft baseboards = red flag.
Why this works: most leak calls start at clogged outlets or failed flashing—not the middle of the roof.
Roof & Gutter Readiness
Steps
- Clean gutters and outlet holes; flush with a hose.
- Re-secure loose hangers; keep a gentle slope toward outlets.
- Inspect penetrations (vents, skylights) and step/head flashing
- Replace damaged shingles/tiles; seal exposed fasteners.
- Consider gutter guards if trees drop heavy leaves.
Result
Water leaves the roof quickly instead of overflowing at fascia/eaves (a common rot zone).
Move Water Away (Drainage & Grading)
- Extend downspouts well past planter beds and walkways.
- Maintain about a 5% slope away from the house (~6 in. drop over 10 ft).
- Eliminate low spots; add a catch basin to solid pipe if needed.
- Sump pump on wet lots: test now; add a battery backup.
- Clear driveway trench drains before storms.
Local tip: Use the City’s seasonal leaf collection schedule to keep street drains clear, and place loose piles only during the allowed window. Fill your green bin first.
Windows, Doors & Siding (stop hidden leaks)
- Reseal failed joints with exterior-grade sealant.
- Confirm head flashings above trim; add where missing.
- Watch for bubbling paint, swollen sill corners, and dark stains.
- Seal wall penetrations (hose bibs, light fixtures, cables).
- Inspect deck ledger connections carefully—high-risk leak path.
Rule: fix the moisture source first, then repair materials to code to prevent repeat damage.
Inside the Home
- Attic: look for shiny water tracks on sheathing or wet insulation.
- Baths/laundry: make sure fans vent outside; run 20 minutes after use.
- GFCIs: test outlets in damp-risk areas.
- Storage: keep valuables off floors during storm weeks.
Small Emergency Kit (power & leaks)
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Phone power bank
- First-aid kit and essential meds
- Plastic sheeting and tape; small tarp
- Wet/dry vac with long extension cord
- Bottled water and simple snacks
- Paper list of emergency contacts
Free Sandbags & Local Resources
Before big systems, local agencies often open self-serve sandbag sites. Bring a shovel. Locations and hours change with conditions—check updates before you go.
When to Call a Pro
- Brown ceiling rings, buckled floors, or soft/spongey trim
- Gutters that overflow even when “clean”
- Water pooling at the slab or seeping at baseboards
- Recurring leaks near windows, doors, or deck ledgers
- You need photo documentation for insurance
Sacramento-Specific Notes
- Most rain arrives November–March, with the heaviest stretch December–February. Plan work in early fall to beat backlogs.
- Storms often arrive as short, intense bursts. Prepare for wind, heavy rain, and quick leaf buildup.
Sacramento Homeowner FAQ: Rain & Storms
When is Sacramento’s rainy season?
Typically November through March, with the heaviest totals in winter.
How often should I clean gutters?
At least once each fall and again mid-season; more often with overhanging trees.
How far should downspouts discharge?
Aim for 3–10 feet away from the foundation; more on flat or clay-heavy lots.
Can I DIY flashing or caulking?
Small gaps are fine. Complex roof/window flashing or deck ledger work—hire a licensed pro.
Do sandbags help?
Yes, for short-term deflection at doors/garages and known low points. Remove them once soils dry.
What should I do first after a leak?
Stop the water, take photos/video, move contents, start controlled drying, and call restoration within 24 hours.
Are permits required for repairs?
Many structural, siding, and roofing repairs do. Your contractor should handle scope, permits, and inspections.