Long, cold winter months can lead to challenging problems for your roofing system. Frigid temperatures. Icy conditions. Heavy snowfalls. These issues will often cause a leaky roof. As a homeowner, do you know how to respond to a roof leaking in winter? Should you wait until warmer weather arrives? Or is it crucial to take immediate action?

What Causes A Winter Roof Leak?

Winter is a prime time for moisture intrusion. An astute homeowner will monitor potential risks and employ proactive measures to minimize or eliminate these concerns before they become unmanageable (e.g., flooding, water damage, mold, etc.).

Clogged Gutters Impede The Flow Of Snowmelt

Many homeowners overlook the significance of regularly cleaning their gutters to prevent moisture intrusion. Snowmelt and rainwater need an unimpeded path, or this moisture may refreeze into the gutter channels. Installing gutter guards helps reduce or eliminate clogged gutters.

High Winds Lead To Roof Shingle Damage

Winter can be unforgiving. Powerful winds can cause shingles to loosen. One loose or missing shingle can allow moisture to penetrate through the sublayers. If you observe a problem shingle, take swift action during winter. Don’t wait. Have a roofing contractor repair or replace it.

Ice Dam Formation Produces A Leaky Roof

Avoid ice dams at all costs. Ice dams form when interior heat rises, causing snow to melt and reformulate as ice at the eaves. Subsequent snowmelt flows down the roof but becomes trapped. Often, this pooled water seeps through the shingles, resulting in a leaky roof.

Improper Ventilation Prevents Adequate Airflow

Inadequate ventilation may lead to ice damming, warping shingles, structural tension, and moisture buildup (including condensation and roof leaks). A home must breathe to sidestep these issues. Incorporate the right venting components to allow sufficient air circulation.

Insufficient Insulation Causes Moisture Buildup

A poorly insulated attic will result in heat loss, which contributes to other roofing problems, including ice dam formation, condensation buildup, and water infiltration. Avoid this challenge by hiring a qualified roofing contractor to install new or replace existing insulation.

Warm, Moist Air Yields Attic Condensation

Warm, moist air rises inside a home, eventually reaching the attic spaces immediately below the roof, where colder air exists. A condensation effect occurs. Moisture buildup may turn to frost. As exterior temperatures rise, thawing happens, and the frost melts into water.

How To Address A Roof Leaking In Winter

Resolve suspected roof leaks during cold winter months before these challenges mushroom into far more consequential damage to your home.

Clean Gutters & The Roof From Debris

Leaves, sticks, and mud accumulate on roofs and in gutters. Don’t risk these obstructions causing other issues, such as ice dams. Clean the gutters and roof before winter. Better yet, install gutter guards to prevent leaves and sticks from clogging the gutter channels.

Don’t Wait Until Warmer Weather Arrives

Many homeowners mistakenly assume that roofing contractors don’t work during winter. This false belief leads homeowners to delay necessary roof repairs. Unfortunately, many roofing problems need immediate attention. Schedule an appointment when first observing an issue.

Install New Insulation Or Ventilation

Adding new or replacing existing insulation helps a home regulate temperatures and humidity levels. Incorporating the appropriate ventilation system also produces the same result. Homeowners avoid costlier issues, such as ice dams, excess snow accumulation, and condensation.

Hire A Knowledgeable Roof Inspector

Roofing professionals recommend a biannual roof inspection. A thorough evaluation of your roofing system before winter arrives lets you understand your existing roof’s condition. Is there an issue requiring addressing? As a homeowner, you will know what steps to take next.

Remove Ice Dams & Excess Snow Accumulation

If you see an ice dam, don’t hope for the best. If snow continues to pile up on your roof, don’t wait for warmer weather to melt it. Instead, proactively remove ice dams and excess snow with de-icing panels. Hire an experienced roofing professional with the proper tools to remedy the situation.

Seal Cracks & Repair Or Replace Flashing

Tiny gaps or separated seams adjacent to vents, chimneys, and skylights allow moisture intrusion. Dented, damaged, or rusted flashing also serves as an opening for roof leaks. Roofing cement offers an airtight seal and waterproof barrier against moisture entering the home.

Person using a roof rake to safely remove heavy snow accumulation from house roof and gutters to prevent ice dams

Working With A Reputable Roofing Contractor

Over 50 years of knowledge and experience specializing in roofing separate O’LYN Roofing from the competition. Based in Norwood, MA, we are Massachusetts’ leading roofing company. We proudly serve residential homeowners throughout Greater Boston and MetroWest.

Many roofing contractors scale back their operations in winter. Some travel south until spring arrives. O’LYN Roofing is different. We remain on-call to address your roofing needs regardless of the season. As a homeowner, you can trust us to provide prompt, professional service.

At O’LYN Roofing, we use the highest-quality roofing materials and products, including Owens Corning and CertainTeed. You can depend on us to provide exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service. We strive to earn your business throughout your project.