How to Prevent Water Damage in North Shore Homes This Summer: A Guide for Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka & Beyond

North Shore Summers Bring Sun—And Sudden Storms

The North Shore of Chicago is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and historic neighborhoods—but also for sudden summer storms that can turn basements into swimming pools. In towns like Evanston, Wilmette, and Winnetka, water damage during July and August is all too common.

If you’re a homeowner in Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, or Northbrook, this guide will show you the smartest steps to take now to prevent costly water damage later. We’ve compiled decades of restoration experience into a checklist that works.

Why North Shore Homes Are Prone to Water Damage

• Older basements with porous stone or cinder block foundations
• Flat or low-slope roofs that don’t drain well
• Dense tree cover that clogs gutters quickly
• Lake-effect storms and sudden downpours
• High property values—where even minor damage = big losses

Whether you live in a 100-year-old Colonial in East Wilmette or a mid-century modern home in Glenview’s The Glen, the risk is real.

7 Proven Ways to Prevent Summer Water Damage in North Shore Homes

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters are one of the top causes of water intrusion. Overflow can seep directly into your siding, window frames, and foundation.

• Clean at least twice per season
• Install gutter guards for better long-term protection

2. Test Your Sump Pump

Sump pumps are your first line of defense in many Skokie and Northfield homes.

• Run a test cycle before the next storm
• Install a battery backup if you don’t already have one

3. Seal Foundation Cracks and Window Wells

Check for visible cracks or water stains. Even minor seepage can lead to mold or structural issues over time.

• Use hydraulic cement for small cracks
• Make sure window wells are covered and drain properly

4. Extend Downspouts

Direct water away from your home’s perimeter. Add extensions if water pools near the foundation.

• Ensure downspouts extend at least 6 feet from the base
• Grade landscaping to slope away from your home

5. Protect Your Basement

If your basement is finished (like many in Lake Bluff and Highwood), take extra precautions:

• Store valuables off the ground
• Use moisture alarms near walls or appliances
• Install a dehumidifier to control humidity

6. Inspect Roofing and Flashing

Wind-driven rain can enter through roof vulnerabilities. Don’t let missing shingles cause expensive interior damage.

• Schedule a roof inspection at least once a year
• Check flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents

7. Know Your Shutoffs and Insurance Coverage

If a pipe bursts or water starts flowing, know how to act fast.

• Locate your main water shutoff valve
• Review your homeowners insurance—are you covered for sump pump failure?

We’ve Helped Hundreds of Homeowners on the North Shore

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore has over 40 years of experience helping residents recover from water damage in:

• Evanston (Downtown, Dempster Street Corridor, Ridge Historic District)
• Wilmette (Kenilworth Gardens, No Man’s Land, West Wilmette)
• Winnetka (East Winnetka, Hubbard Woods, Indian Hill)
• Glencoe (Skokie Ridge, Glencoe Park District area)
• Highland Park, Lake Forest, Northbrook, Glenview, Skokie, and Northfield

We know the layout, drainage, and vulnerability of North Shore homes—because we live and work here.

Call Us Before Water Damage Happens

We don’t just clean up water—we help prevent it. From waterproofing consultations to emergency response, we’re available 24/7 to help you protect your most valuable asset: your home.

Call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore at (847) 316-9145

Explore our Water Damage Services

Related Services We Provide:

• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Cleanup
• Flooded Basement Restoration

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore is a locally trusted restoration provider serving Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, Glenview, Lake Forest, Skokie, and surrounding communities. Led by IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer Sam Simon, we are backed by 40+ years of experience and ServiceMaster’s national legacy as America’s oldest disaster restoration brand.

We are IICRC-certified, RIA members, and recipients of multiple industry awards.

We are also the authors of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset.

Learn more: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952779529