Winter can be a magical season in New Hampshire, but it’s not so delightful when you discover a roof leak. With heavy snow, ice, and wildly varying temperatures, the conditions are prime for leaks to develop. If you find yourself dealing with a leaky roof this winter, here’s what you need to know about the common causes and how to address them before the problem gets worse.
Common Causes of Winter Roof Leaks
- Ice Dams: Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, creating a barrier that prevents water from draining. This water then backs up under the shingles, leading to leaks inside your home. Ice dams are especially problematic on roofs with inadequate insulation and/or ventilation, where warm air from the attic causes snow on the roof to melt faster.
- Clogged Gutters: Gutters are essential for draining water away from your roof. When gutters are clogged with debris, snowmelt has nowhere to go, leading to a buildup of water that can seep under shingles and cause leaks. Winter weather compounds this issue as ice forms in the gutters, creating further blockages.
- Condensation in the Attic: If your attic isn’t properly ventilated, warm air from inside your home can cause condensation to form when it meets the cold roof deck. This excess moisture can lead to mold growth and wood rot, ultimately damaging your roof structure and creating the potential for leaks.
- Damaged Shingles or Flashing: Winter storms can loosen shingles or damage flashing around roof edges and chimneys. When shingles or flashing are compromised, water can penetrate your roof’s underlayers, causing leaks. High winds, hail, and fallen branches can all contribute to damaged roofing materials.
- DIY Ice Dam Removal: Additionally, homeowners who attempt to remove these dams on their own can sometimes inadvertently damage their roof. Depending on how thick the ice is, it’s worth it to call a professional. An hour or so of work could save you hundreds or even thousands in repair damage.
Steps to Take When You Have a Winter Roof Leak
1. Identify the Source
The first step in addressing a roof leak is to locate the source. Signs of a leak may include water stains on ceilings or walls, condensation on skylights, or a damp attic. Once you know where the leak is coming from, you can determine whether it’s caused by ice dams, clogged gutters, or damaged shingles.
2. Call a Professional
Winter roof repairs can be dangerous due to icy surfaces and freezing temperatures. It’s best to call a professional roofing contractor to assess the damage and recommend a solution. At Conde Roofing, we can evaluate the leak, offer emergency fixes if needed, and schedule a full repair for warmer months when the roof is safer to work on.
3. Implement Temporary Fixes
While waiting for a permanent repair, there are some temporary measures you can take to minimize further damage. For ice dams, consider using calcium chloride tablets to melt the ice, but avoid regular rock salt, which can damage your shingles. You can also place a box fan in the attic to help reduce condensation. In the case of a serious leak, you may need to cover the affected area with a tarp until a professional can repair it.
Preventing Future Winter Roof Leaks
- Clear Gutters Before Winter Sets In: Cleaning your gutters before winter is one of the easiest ways to prevent leaks. By ensuring water can flow freely, you’ll reduce the risk of ice buildup and minimize potential damage to your roof. Consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out year-round.
- Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation: Proper attic insulation and ventilation help regulate temperature, reducing the likelihood of ice dams. Insulation keeps warm air inside your home instead of allowing it to escape into the attic and cause snow on your roof to melt. Additionally, ensuring proper airflow in the attic will prevent condensation from forming and damaging your roof structure.
- Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Routine inspections are key to keeping your roof in top shape, particularly before winter. A professional roofer can spot potential issues like loose shingles or damaged flashing that may be difficult to detect. By catching small problems early, you can prevent larger, more costly issues later on.
- Install a Roof De-Icing System: For areas prone to ice dams, a roof de-icing system can be a worthwhile investment. These systems use heated cables to prevent ice from forming along the edges of your roof, allowing snow and ice to melt off safely. While the installation cost may be higher upfront, the system can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Get A Free Roof Estimate in New Hampshire
If you notice any signs of a roof leak this winter, don’t delay in addressing it. Ignoring the issue can lead to further water damage, mold, and structural issues that will be more expensive to repair. At Conde Roofing, we’re here to help you protect your home from winter’s worst effects. Contact us today for a winter roof inspection or for emergency leak repairs.
Conde Roofing – Proudly serving New Hampshire homeowners with professional, reliable roofing services. Don’t let winter roof leaks put a damper on your season—let us help you keep your home safe, warm, and leak-free!
Call us at 603-838-7663 or contact us to schedule a free estimate for your roof.