January is a great time to plan ahead in Northern Virginia. With the holidays behind you and spring listing season on the horizon, a little prep now can go a long way. If your home has stucco or EIFS, Worldgate Plaster & Stucco Company recommends checking for cracks or moisture issues early—so you’re not caught off guard during the inspection.

Inspect Before Listing

Stucco and EIFS look solid from the curb. But moisture problems don’t always announce themselves loudly. Building Science experts note that wall assemblies can deteriorate when moisture accumulates faster than it can dry, especially around vulnerable details such as windows and penetrations. A certified stucco/EIFS inspection gives you clarity before listing photos, showings, and offer deadlines.

Winter Warning Signs

In Reston, Herndon, and across Fairfax and Loudoun counties, winter weather can quietly expose weak spots. Watch for these signs:

• Hairline cracks that are spreading (especially near corners and trim)

• Staining beneath windows or along rooflines

• Bubbling paint or soft spots on exterior walls

• Musty smells or interior staining on exterior-facing rooms

Even if the home “seems fine,” moisture issues can still exist behind the surface. EPA guidance is clear: moisture is the driver of mold problems, so addressing water entry early matters.

Prevent Expensive Surprises

A proper inspection approach considers the wall as a system—cladding, openings, transitions, and more. That mindset aligns with industry standards for evaluating wall leakage and water intrusion. For sellers, that means fewer surprises, smoother negotiations, and the ability to handle repairs on your timeline—not under pressure.

Book Your Inspection

If you’re planning to sell in 2026, a January inspection is a smart first move. Worldgate Plaster & Stucco Company provides certified stucco and EIFS inspections and honest maintenance and repair recommendations throughout Reston and Northern Virginia. Contact our team at (703) 283-6886 to request an estimate and head into the spring listing season with confidence.

ASTM International. ASTM E2128-20: Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International, 2020. https://store.astm.org/e2128-20.html.