Snow melting on your roof can easily lead to leaks, especially if there’s already an issue up there. When snow and ice melt, water runs down the roof. If your gutters are clogged, or your shingles are damaged (say from ice dams or winter storms), the water will overflow and seep into the roof, causing leaks. Let’s look at how we can protect your home when the weather warms up.

Why does my roof leak when snow melts?

Before diving into prevention methods, let’s explore why you might start seeing leaks as snow and ice melt.

1. Damaged shingles expose your roof to water, leading to indoor leaks. After a big storm, schedule a roof inspection to ensure shingles are secure and repair any damage promptly.
2. An ice dam roof leak can quickly spell trouble for you and your home. The constant freeze and thaw pattern of water up on your roof can get under your roof shingles and into your home. Which areas of your roof are most prone to ice dams? The diverter that moves water from the chimney and roof valleys because water tends to pool there.
3. Clogged gutters filled with ice, dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris become less effective at draining water, which means water can start seeping under your shingles.
4. The likelihood of attic condensation increases when we turn the heat on for the winter. This condensation in the attic can lead to mold and mildew, which can spread through the house, becoming messy and expensive to tackle.

Roof leaking in winter: preventing damage to your home

• These precautions can help protect your home from water infiltration and avoid costly repairs.
• Clearing your gutters helps water flow so it doesn’t back up into your house. In particular, you’ll want to inspect and clear them out before the snowy season begins.
• Install ice and water shields to help prevent water from freezing and your roof leaking in winter.
• Remove snow on your roof. If snow starts accumulating rapidly, call professionals to remove it. Doing so throughout the winter can help prevent an ice dam roof leak.
• Keep your attic properly insulated. Insulation helps reduce condensation and seal off any air leaks. Check that there aren’t any gaps around beams or pipes, plumbing vents, skylights, and chimneys. Depending on your home, you may want to replace or add insulation in certain areas.
• Watch for water damage. Schedule a time once a month to look for water damage, worn shingles, and spots on your ceiling. Go to your attic to look for wet insulation, mold, or other signs of moisture. You may also be able to smell it, so keep your nose open, too!
• Schedule routine roof inspections. Professional roofing contractors look for issues and repair them before they become a problem! It’s especially a good idea to do this when the seasons change.
• Make recommended repairs. Don’t let a weakened shingle or gaps let water into your home. If your roofing contractors make recommendations, take care of it right away.
• When in doubt, call a professional roofing company in your area. If you notice changes to your roof as the weather warms up, it’s probably time to call for help.

What to do if your roof leaks when snow melts

If you’re worried about your roof leaking this winter, reach out to our team at CoMitted 365. We’re known for our dedicated services and expertise in roof repair in St. Cloud and the surrounding suburbs. Let’s keep your roof in great shape no matter what kind of weather comes our way.

Schedule an appointment to stay ahead of roofing issues this winter. Have an emergency? Give us a call at (320) 828-7244.

And if you’re unsure how to submit a claim for your roof damage, we can help with that, too!

Related reading

Want to know more about preventing ice dam roof leaks? Read our article on the topic.