We all know it's coming. And as much we may not like it, Mother Nature is prepping us to get those heaters ready. As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, most homeowners start focusing on cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice, and the inevitable turn to much colder days. But before you settle in for the winter, there’s one critical part of your home that deserves some cold-weather attention:
Your roof.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures. Here’s what should be on your radar before winter hits full force:
1. Ice Dams: A Sneaky Winter Threat
When snow melts on a warm roof and then refreezes at the edge, it forms ice dams — thick ridges of ice that block melting water from draining off the roof. The north and widwest know this all too well. That water can back up under shingles and cause leaks inside your home.
What to look for:
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Water stains on ceilings after snow
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Large icicles forming along the gutters
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Uneven melting on your roof
Prevention Tip: Make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to keep your roof cold and prevent melting.
2. Wind Damage
Winter storms can bring strong winds that lift or loosen shingles, especially on older roofs. If your roof is already in marginal condition, it’s more vulnerable to shingle loss and structural damage. It doesn't take much to leave some serious issues on your roof.
What to look for:
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Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
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Debris on the roof after a storm
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Leaks around the attic or ceiling
Pro Tip: Schedule a pre-winter inspection to catch issues before a storm blows them wide open.
3. Clogged Gutters
Leaves are pretty on the trees -- not so much in your gutters. When your gutters are full of fall leaves, water can’t drain properly—leading to overflow, ice buildup, and even roof rot. As that water freezes, it can also damage the gutter system itself. Not to mention, wet leaves add a signifcant amount of weight to your gutters, potentially making them less efficient -- or worse -- prone to failure.
What to do:
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Clear out leaves and debris before the first freeze
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Check downspouts for clogs or ice
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Install gutter guards if you have heavy tree coverage
4. Roof Load From Snow & Ice
Snow may look light and fluffy, but it can be deceptively heavy. One foot of wet snow can weigh up to 20 lbs per square foot. Add freezing rain, ice layers and wet leaves and debris, and that weight increases dramatically.
What this means:
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Older or damaged roofs may sag or even collapse under heavy loads
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Snow load risks vary depending on your region and roof pitch
Pro Tip: If you're in a high-snow area, consider a roof rake to safely remove buildup — or better, call a pro for safe snow removal.
5. Leaks You Haven’t Noticed Yet
Small leaks or weak spots may go unnoticed during dry fall weather, but winter makes everything worse. Frozen water expands in cracks and joints, pushing shingles apart and widening holes. Water will essentially go everywhere you don't want it to go! A winter roof leak isn’t just inconvenient—it’s expensive. Catch it early with a professional inspection.
Signs to watch for:
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Stains on ceilings or walls
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Mold or musty smells in the attic
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Dripping or frost in the attic space
So, What Should You Do Now?
Here’s a quick Cold-Weather Roof Checklist:
✅ Clean your gutters
✅ Inspect your attic for signs of leaks or poor ventilation
✅ Check for missing or damaged shingles
✅ Schedule a pre-winter roof inspection
✅ Trim overhanging branches that could snap under snow
✅ Ensure proper insulation to avoid ice dams
Final Thought: Prevention Is Cheaper Than Repair
Winter is tough on roofs—but most cold-weather damage can be prevented with a little prep work in the fall. If you're unsure about the condition of your roof, now is the perfect time to bring in a professional (like us!) for a quick inspection.
Contact us today to schedule your fall roof checkup. Click here!
Your future, snow-covered self will thank you!