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Even though snow is rare in Texas, it does happen like when winter storm Uri blew through in 2021 and Enzo in 2025, and you need to be aware of how it can damage your roof. Snow is not just beautiful, it can also be destructive to your home if you are not prepared for it.
In this guide, we will discuss how snow can damage your roof and some tips on how to protect it.
Common Ways Snow Can Damage Your Roof
There are a number of ways that snow can damage your roof. Some of these may be surprising to you if you’re not used to having snow on your roof.
Excess Weight
Snow weighs a lot when it piles up, and many structures aren’t able to handle the excess weight. This can cause your roof to sag or even collapse if the snow isn’t cleared off in a timely manner.
Ice Dams
When snow melts and then refreezes on your roof, it can create ice dams. These are thick layers of ice that build up on the edge of your roof and block proper drainage. As a result, water can seep into your home, causing damage to both the interior and exterior.
Water Intrusion
Water that is trapped on your roof can seep under shingles, which in turn causes leaks and water damage. When this water seeps into the house, it can damage the structure and lead to mold growth.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
When ice melts and then refreezes on your roof, it can create a freeze-thaw cycle. This puts stress on the roof and can cause cracks or other damage.
Gutter Damage
As snow and ice build up in your gutters, it can cause them to sag or even detach from the roof. This can create a safety hazard and also lead to water damage if the gutters are not properly functioning.
The good news is that insurance usually covers snow damage.
Warning Signs of Roof Damage From Snow
How can you tell if you have a roof leak? There are a number of tell-tale signs, including:
- Interior leaks or water stains.
- Cracked or sagging ceiling areas.
- Visible icicles and ice dams.
- Missing, cracked, or curled shingles.
- Unusual creaking or popping sounds.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important that you call a roofing contractor immediately. At M&M Roofing and Siding, we offer FREE expert roof inspections. We’ll come to your house and give your roof a comprehensive inspection, looking for any damage. If we find any, we’ll give you recommendations for the next steps.
Call us today for your free roof estimate.
Steps to Protect Your Roof from Snow Damage
There are a number of ways you can protect your roof from snow damage. Even if you don’t get snow often, it’s important to follow these steps.
Routine Inspections
The best way to prevent snow damage on your roof is to stay ahead of the game. Regularly inspecting your roof for any signs of damage can help you catch potential issues before they become major problems. We recommend getting a professional inspection at least once a year, particularly after any significant weather events.
Snow Removal
If possible, it’s best to get the snow off the roof if it’s heavy and wet. This is when it can cause the most damage. Carefully (very) remove the snow from your roof in a safe manner. If you’re not comfortable on your roof, you may want to call a professional.
Improve Ventilation and Insulation
You can help prevent ice dams by ensuring proper ventilation and insulation in your attic. Warm air escaping from the home can cause snow to melt and then refreeze, leading to ice dams. By keeping your attic properly insulated, you can help prevent this from happening.
Gutter Maintenance
Make sure your gutters are clear of any debris before and during the snowy season. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, creating an ice dam. Regularly clearing out your gutters will help prevent this issue.
Trim Trees
If you have trees near your home, it’s important to trim any branches that may hang over or touch your roof. Heavy snow can cause these branches to break and potentially damage your roof.
At M&M, we know that it can be challenging to pay for a new roof, which is why we offer financing for roof replacement. Our financing options allow you to get the roof you need without breaking the bank. We offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment plans, making it easier for you to budget for your new roof.
When to Call a Professional
Taking care of your roof during the winter months is crucial in protecting your home from potential damage. By regularly inspecting your roof, removing snow when necessary, improving ventilation and insulation, maintaining gutters, and trimming trees, you can help prevent snow-related damage.
But if you do experience any issues with your roof during the winter, it’s important to call a professional for assistance. Call M&M and we’ll help you know exactly what to do.
Take Care of Your Roof
If you observe snow damage on your roof, you should call a professional roofing company like M&M Roofing and Siding. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need repairs or even a full roof replacement.
It’s always best to leave roofing work to trained professionals, as they have the knowledge and expertise to properly assess and address any issues. They even have experience with insurance companies and can guide you on how to get insurance to pay for a roof replacement.
Call us today to learn more about your options and take the first step toward a stronger, more secure home.
