Top Winter Roof Maintenance Tips Every Canadian Homeowner Needs to Know

Winter in Canada brings harsh weather that can take a toll on your home—especially your roof. Snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures can cause significant damage, leading to expensive repairs if not addressed in time. By taking steps to care for and maintain your roof before winter arrives, you can prevent common issues, save money in the long run, and also increase your home’s energy efficiency.

Here are the top winter roof maintenance tips to protect your home, prevent leaks, and keep your roof in peak condition all season.

1. Inspect Your Roof Before Snow Hits

Conduct an examination of your roof before the first snow falls. Here's what to look for:

• Missing or damaged shingles

• Cracked flashing

• Clogged gutters

• Adequate attic insulation and ventilation

Addressing these issues before winter can prevent leaks and ice dams during freezing weather.

Pro Tip: Schedule a professional roof inspection to ensure every detail is checked.

An accumulation of snow on roof.

2. Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts

During the fall, leaves and branches often collect on your roof and in your gutters. When gutters become clogged, they trap moisture, leading to water buildup that can freeze and contribute to ice dam formation. Ice dams not only damage shingles but can also cause leaks inside your home, resulting in costly repairs.

To prevent these issues, it's important to clear debris at the end of autumn. If possible, gently sweep leaves and branches off your roof with a broom and thoroughly clean out gutters and downspouts or hire a professional.

Clearing gutters helps ensure proper draining and reduces the risk of ice dams when the snow starts to melt.

3. Prevent Ice Dams

Ice dams occur when snow melts and refreezes at your roof's edge, causing water to pool and seep under shingles.

To prevent ice dams, ensure your attic has good insulation and ventilation. If possible, utilizing roof rakes to remove excess snow after heavy storms can minimize the risk of snow buildup and ice dam formation.

If your roof has significant snow buildup, consult a professional for safe removal.

A close-up view of ice dams forming on the edge of a roof.

4. Check Your Attic Ventilation

Proper attic ventilation is essential during winter. Good airflow keeps your roof cold, preventing the warm air from inside your house from melting snow that refreezes at the edges, increasing the likelihood of ice dams.

Examine your attic's ventilation system to ensure it functions effectively. If frost accumulates on the underside of your roof, this may be a sign you need more ventilation.

Pro Tip: A roofer can check if your attic has enough insulation and make sure there aren’t any gaps. They’ll also look at your soffit and ridge vents to ensure proper airflow and help prevent problems like ice dams.

Improper bathroom ventilation, leading to condensation in the attic

Mold caused by improper bathroom ventilation

5. Trim Overhanging Branches

Branches that hang over your roof can be problematic during snow or ice storms. Keep trees trimmed to reduce this risk and allow more sunlight to melt snow on your roof. This maintenance also helps ensure fewer leaves collect during fall.

6. Consider Investing in a Roof De-Icing System

A roof de-icing system is a smart investment to help melt excess snow and ice, reducing the risk of ice dams and protecting your home from potential damage. Electric heating cables are a popular and effective option for preventing dangerous buildup on your roof.

Consult with roofing professionals who can recommend and install the ideal de-icing solution for your home.

7. Keep an Eye Out for Interior Signs of Damage

During winter, keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Water stains on ceilings

• Peeling paint

• Mold growth

• Sagging roof sections

• Icicles along gutters (a potential sign of ice dams)

Act quickly if you notice these signs. Investigate the source of the leak and work with a professional to address the issue before it escalates.

8. Plan for Professional Inspections

Scheduling routine professional roof inspections can help catch problems before they turn serious. This is especially important for older roofs or those that have withstood severe storms.

8. Schedule Professional Snow Removal

Heavy snow can stress your roof, especially older structures. While using a roof rake works for light snow, professional removal is safer for significant accumulations.

Removing snow improperly can damage shingles and void warranties.

Safeguard Your Home This Winter

Taking steps to inspect your roof, clear debris, manage snow accumulation, and tackle potential ice dam issues can save you from costly repairs in the future.

By following these tips and addressing potential issues early, you’ll keep your roof—and your home—protected during the winter months. If you need assistance with inspections, repairs, maintenance, or snow removal, contact us today for a free estimate.