Why Is Your Roof Leaking After Heavy Snowfall?

Roofs are designed to withstand typical winter weather, but extreme snowfall can lead to leaks and structural issues. Here are the most common reasons why your roof might be leaking:

1.  Ice Dams

What happens? Warm air from inside your home escapes through the attic, melting the snow on your roof. The water flows down to the colder edges, refreezing and creating a ridge of ice. This “ice dam” prevents proper drainage, forcing water under the shingles and into your home.

How to prevent it:

  • Improve attic insulation to keep warm air from escaping.

  • Increase ventilation to maintain a consistent roof temperature.

  • Use a roof rake to remove excess snow before it melts and refreezes.

 

2.  Heavy Snow Load

What happens?  A thick layer of snow can become dangerously heavy, stressing your roof’s structure. If your roof isn’t built for excessive weight, it could lead to leaks or even collapse in extreme cases.

How to prevent it:

  • Safely remove snow with a roof rake from the ground.

  • Avoid climbing on the roof yourself—hire a professional for large snow loads.

 

3.  Condensation in the Attic

What happens?  When warm air from your home rises and meets the cold surface of your roof, it creates condensation. Over time, this can lead to mould, wood rot, and leaks.

How to prevent it:

  • Ensure your attic is well-ventilated.

  • Add proper insulation to reduce temperature differences.

  • Use a vapour barrier to block moisture from entering your attic.

 

4.  Damaged or Missing Shingles

What happens?  Wind, ice, and aging can cause shingles to crack or come loose, creating openings for melting snow to seep.

How to prevent it:

  • Schedule regular roof inspections, especially before winter.

  • Replace damaged shingles as soon as possible.

 

5.  Clogged or Frozen Gutters

What happens?  The water can’t drain appropriately if leaves, ice, or snow block your gutters. It causes overflow, leading to leaks in your roof or walls.

How to prevent it:

  • Clean your gutters before winter.

  • Install gutter guards to avoid blockages.

  • Use heated gutter cables to keep ice from forming.

 

What to Do If Your Roof is Leaking

If you’ve already spotted a leak, here’s what you can do to minimize damage before calling in the pros:

✅ Catch the Water: Place buckets or towels under the leak to prevent water damage to your floors.

✅ Remove Snow (Safely): If it’s safe, use a roof rake to clear snow from the affected area.

✅ Create a Drainage Path: If an ice dam is blocking water, fill a nylon stocking with calcium chloride ice melt and lay it across the ice dam to help create a drainage channel.

✅ Check Your Attic: Look for damp insulation, mould, or frost buildup, which could indicate a more significant issue.

✅ Call a Professional: Some issues, like ice dam removal or structural repairs, require expert help.

 

Who to Call?

Dealing with a roof leak can be overwhelming, but Muskoka and Parry Sound has plenty of experts ready to help:

  • 🏠 Roofing Contractors: For roof repairs, shingle replacement, and inspections.

  • ❄️ Ice Dam & Snow Removal Services: For safe, professional ice dam steaming and roof snow clearing.

  • 🛠 Insulation & Ventilation Experts: To prevent future leaks by improving attic insulation.

For professional recommendations in Muskoka or Parry Sound, be sure to contact Lisa or Shirlene.

 

Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late

If ignored, a small leak can become a big problem. If your roof is showing signs of stress from snow and ice, take action now. Whether it’s better insulation, professional snow removal, or a quick call to a roofing expert, being proactive will save you money and headaches.

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