How Heavy Snowfall Affects Your Roof (And What You Can Do About It)

Winter in Pennsylvania can be beautiful—but it also brings heavy snowfall that can take a serious toll on your home, especially your roof. While roofs are designed to withstand the elements, excessive snow and ice can lead to long-term damage if not properly managed. Understanding these risks and how to prevent them will help keep your home safe and your roof in top condition for years.

The Impact of Heavy Snowfall on Your Roof

1. Excess Weight Can Lead to Structural Damage
Snow may look light and fluffy, but when it piles up on your roof, the weight adds up. Just one foot of wet, heavy snow can weigh as much as 20 pounds per square foot! Over time, this stress can weaken your roof structure, causing sagging or, in extreme cases, even collapse.

2. Ice Dams Can Cause Leaks
Heat escaping from your attic can melt the snow on your roof. As the water runs down to the colder edges, it refreezes, creating ice dams. These thick ridges of ice prevent proper drainage, forcing water to back up under shingles and into your home. Left untreated, ice dams can lead to water damage, mold growth, and compromised insulation.

3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles Can Weaken Shingles
Pennsylvania winters often bring fluctuating temperatures. When snow melts during the day and refreezes at night, this expansion and contraction can cause shingles to crack or loosen, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks and further damage.

How to Protect Your Roof from Snow and Ice Damage

1. Install High-Quality, Weather-Resistant Shingles
Not all shingles are created equal. Owens Corning shingles, installed by Stoltzfus Bros., are specifically designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. These shingles provide exceptional durability, superior adhesion, and energy-efficient insulation, helping to prevent damage caused by Pennsylvania’s harsh winters.

2. Keep Your Gutters Clean
Clogged gutters can make winter roofing problems even worse by preventing proper drainage. Clear out leaves and debris before winter hits, and consider installing gutter guards to keep them free-flowing throughout the season.

3. Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation
A well-insulated and ventilated attic is key to preventing ice dams and excessive heat loss. Stoltzfus Bros. ensures that roofs are properly installed with adequate airflow, helping to regulate attic temperature and protect your home from costly damage.

4. Safely Remove Excess Snow
If snow piles up more than 12 inches, it’s time to clear it off. Use a roof rake with an extended handle to safely remove snow from the ground. Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself—leave that to professionals if needed.

5. Schedule a Winter Roof Inspection
Routine inspections can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs. Stoltzfus Bros. Construction offers comprehensive winter roof check-ups, ensuring your roof is in the best condition to handle heavy snowfall.

Don’t Let Snow Take a Toll on Your Roof

Heavy snow and ice can be a real threat to your roof, but with proper materials, maintenance, and expert care, you can avoid costly damage. Stoltzfus Bros. specializes in installing Owens Corning shingles, designed to handle tough Pennsylvania winters while also providing professional roofing services to keep your home safe and secure.

Is your roof ready for winter? Contact Stoltzfus Bros. Construction today for an inspection or a durable new roof built to last through even the heaviest snowfall.