How Can I Protect My Roof Against Winter Weather?

The Winter Can Be Problematic for Your Roof

Well, it’s that time of year again when the temperatures drop and everyone starts layering up to enjoy the winter holiday season.  It’s easy to get wrapped up in the holiday festivities, but don’t forget that the winter weather can be a real problem for your roof.  Between ice, high winds, and freezing rain, your roof really goes through it during the winter months, and that could mean serious damage and expensive repairs in the spring.


Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can protect your roof from winter weather and spare yourself any nasty surprises.

roof with snow

Get your roof inspected ASAP

Though it might need to be done with more frequency depending on your circumstances, the experts recommend having your roof inspected at least once a year.  Following the rainy season in spring, the intense sun of the summer, and the sometimes unpredictable fall weather, there’s really no better time to have your roof inspected than early winter.  A roof inspection will reveal hidden damage and will keep you well informed about the state of your roof and what to prepare for during the winter.


If you can’t remember the last time you had this performed, there’s no time like the present. 

snow on a roof

Beware of snow

We don’t typically get a lot of snow around these parts, but you really never know what’s going to happen during the winter months.  Assuming that your home is built to code, it should be able to handle the weight of snowfall, but unfortunately many Texas homeowners are woefully unprepared for the ancillary troubles that a significant amount of accumulation can bring.  More than a couple of inches of snow on your roof can create bigger problems down the road, so if it seems like the snow on your roof is not going away any time soon, you might want to consider having it brushed off.

christmas tree and fireplace

Check your chimney

If you have a chimney and think you might feel inspired to have a fire during the chilly months, now is the time to make sure that they are in good working order. You should start by inspecting the flashing, or the thin sheets of metal that form a seal around the chimney.  If they appear to be damaged in any way, you will want to have those repaired as soon as possible. Damaged flashing will lead to leaks if left unattended.  Likewise, make sure that your chimney is free of squirrel or bird nests as they can cause blockage and are a fire hazard.

icicles on a roof

Ice damming is a serious problem

This might be a new term for you so allow us to explain.  Ice damming occurs when snow and ice accumulates on a certain part of the roof, which in turn blocks water from running off of your roof and into the gutters to be diverted from your house.  Any accumulation of water on your roof is a serious problem and can cause leaks, dry rot, mold infestation, and severely damage the structural integrity of your home.


Icicles are a telltale sign of ice damming.  Though they might look beautiful, icicles are a clear indication that water is not escaping your roof.  When the snow melts off of the top of your roof, warmed by the air inside, the water will again freeze at the eaves, creating an ice dam that can form icicles.  This ice dam will cause the water behind it to pool, seeping in through the cracks in your shingles and cause catastrophic damage.  If you notice icicles forming, the ice must be broken up as soon as possible.


If you are concerned about your roof this winter, please don’t hesitate to call.  When it comes to roof repairs, it’s much better to be safe than sorry.

roof
roof inspection
snow on the ground
smoking chimney
icicles on a roof

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