5 Winter Roof Damage Signs Homeowner Should Know

Nov 12, 2021Blog, Roofing

The roof over your head protects you from the outdoor elements, like rain, snow, and hail. However, it’s not completely impervious to damage, and winter conditions can be especially harsh. In addition to bringing strong winds and hail, winter weather can make pre-existing issues more apparent.

Failure to take care of your roof during the winter months can mean a much more extensive repair job in the spring. Here are five of the main winter roof damage signs you should watch out for and deal with as soon as you can.

1. Ice Dams

An ice dam on a gutter of a house. Ice dams are a sign of winter roof damage.

An ice dam is a build-up on the edges of your roof that prevents snow from sliding off. It’s usually a result of heated buildings melting snow with warm air, which then refreezes on the roof’s edge.

Ice dams cause winter roof damage when the build-up causes water to collect under your shingles. They also block off your home’s gutters and downspouts. Your home can sustain severe water damage due to ice melting.

2. Icicle Formation

A brick house dripping with icicles

Similar to ice dams, icicles can form on the edges of your roof. Aside from the risk that they pose to people walking underneath them, they also damage your gutters and shingles.

Air leaks often cause a temperature imbalance that leads to icicles. Keeping your gutters clean also helps.

3. Attic Condensation

Bublles in paint on a ceiling of a home from water damage.

If you’ve noticed ice dams or icicles forming on your house, then it’s likely that you have water getting into your attic space. This moisture build-up can cause some serious water damage left unchecked. You also run the risk of further damage come Springtime, when the collected snow starts to melt on your roof.

With proper ventilation, your attic is less likely to trap water. When you remove snow and ice, you also want to eliminate any leaks from your roof.

4. Visible Damage From Hail

A roof marked after inspection for hail damage. Hail is a common winter roof damage

A hail storm is more than just a danger to your person and your vehicle. It can also damage your roof and any other pieces of property.

Of the types of damage on this list, hail damage tends to be the most obvious. You’ll see split shingles, hail hit marks, and other random signs of damage. Hail storms can also come with harsh winter winds, so look out for the signs of wind damage as well.

5. Snow Sitting on Rooftop

Someone using a rake to remove snow from a rooftop.

One of the issues with flat roofs is that water and snow can easily collect on top. Excess snow can put unnecessary weight on your roof, and melting snow can lead to water damage. However, you may also find snow sitting on a slanted roof due to an ice dam.

A roof rake helps to remove some of that excess snow and break up an ice dam. You’ll also want to make some adjustments to your roof to prevent damaging freezes and thaws.

Prevent Further Winter Roof Damage

A brick house with snow settled on a roof.

Ignoring signs of winter roof damage will only lead to worse problems for your home later on. If you’ve noticed snow and ice damaging your roof, then it’s time to call in the experts.

Revive Restoration aims to provide the best service and products in restoring the exterior of your home. We do roofing repairs, insulation, and more. Request a quote today or call for more information.