Understanding how winter storms can affect your roof is essential to keeping your home safe. Snow, ice buildup, and strong winds can cause damage if you’re not prepared. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and extend your roof’s life. Stay vigilant during the cold months, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if you notice any issues. Taking these small steps can go a long way toward protecting your home this winter.

Winter Storm Roof Damage: Signs to Watch Out For

Keeping an eye on your roof throughout the winter is the best way to catch roofing issues before they turn into full-on structural problems. You don’t need to get on a ladder and do a full inspection — we actually strongly advise against this, especially in the winter — but taking a few moments every few days to look up at your roof from different angles will help you spot signs of damage caused by harsh winter weather.

Some of the most important signs of winter storm damage to look out for include the following: 

Damaged Shingles

Strong winds may lift, crack, or tear shingles, revealing the underlayment and deck below. Additionally, heavy snow can slowly help loosen them over time, which is why regular inspections are so important to keep your roof in great shape.

Sagging Roof

Leaves, debris, and snow buildup can put significant stress on your roof. Coupled with freezing or fluctuating temperatures, snow or melting ice can add to this stress, causing your roof to sag in the middle due to the extra weight. If you notice any sagging areas on your roof, contact our Monarch Roofing team as soon as possible. 

Drooping Gutters 

Heavy ice and snow can put a lot of strain on gutters, sometimes causing them to detach. This can lead to drainage problems and even potential damage to your home’s foundation. Staying on top of gutter maintenance during winter can really help prevent these issues and keep your home safe and sound.

How Winter Storms Affect Your Roof

Winter storms can greatly affect our area. Even though we don’t experience the brutal winters of the northern states, the harsh elements — freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and snow accumulation, especially in western North Carolina — can significantly weaken your roof. Let’s take a closer look at exactly how winter storm damage can affect your roof. 

Heavy Snow Buildup

Heavy snow accumulating on your roof can be quite stressful, sometimes causing it to sag or develop serious structural problems. It’s always good to keep an eye on it during those snowy months to ensure everything stays safe and sound.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Water gradually finds its way into tiny cracks in the roof, freezes, and expands, which, over time, can cause the cracks to grow larger. This process can damage shingles, flashing, and the roof deck, potentially leading to bigger issues if left unaddressed.

Water Damage

When the snow melts and then refreezes at the roof’s edge, it forms an ice dam. This ice dam can hold back water, forcing it under your shingles and into your home, which may lead to leaks and interior damage. 

Blocked Vents

Snow and wind-blown snow can sometimes block roof vents, which can trap warm, moist air inside the attic. This buildup can cause condensation, mold, mildew, and even wood rot, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the attic vents and clear any blockages to help protect your home.

Long-Term Roof Solutions: Prevent Storm Damage Before it Happens 

If you are looking for proactive ways to prevent winter storm damage to your roof, there are a few steps you can take. Let’s look into a few of those long-term damage prevention ideas: 

• Snow Guard Installation: If you live in the areas of the Carolinas where we see occasional snow, having a pro roofer install snow guards on your roof. Snow guards hold snow in place on your roof to prevent the snow from sliding off and damaging your property. 
• Ice & Water Shield Installation: An ice-resistant roofing underlayment is a self-adhering, waterproof membrane that protects your roof deck from water damage caused by ice dams, heavy rain, and snow accumulation. 
• Professional Roofing Help: If you’re looking for major insulation or ventilation upgrades, complex repairs, or professional roof damage prevention services, it’s best to contact an experienced roofing company. 

Turn To Our Pros For Post-Storm Roof Repair 

Even if you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast, it’s safest to steer clear of roofing projects on your own, especially with winter weather in the mix. Remember, you need the right skills, the proper equipment, and enough time to do it safely and correctly. It’s always a good idea to call in the professionals to ensure everything is done properly and safely.

Our skilled roofers are equipped with the right tools to carefully repair your roof after winter storms. Only a roofing professional truly understands the safest methods for working in challenging weather. Call Monarch Roofing for all your roof repair needs in Wilmington, NC, Myrtle Beach, SC, and Georgia!