Winter Roof Checklist For NJ And NY Homeowners
Cold weather is coming whether we are ready or not. Your roof is the only thing standing between your family and snow rain and freezing wind, so a quick winter checkup can save you a lot of stress and money.
Here is a simple winter roof checklist I use with our customers in New Jersey and New York.
1. Look at your shingles from the ground
You do not need to climb on the roof. Step back and look carefully.
Do you see missing shingles Are any corners lifted or curling Are there dark patches or shiny spots where granules washed away
If you see any of these, the roof is more likely to leak once snow and ice sit on it. Take a few photos so you can show us or your insurance if needed.
2. Check around chimneys skylights and vents
Most winter leaks start where two different surfaces meet, not in the middle of the roof.
Walk around your home and check the areas around:
Chimneys Skylights Pipe boots and vents Wall flashing where the roof meets a wall or dormer
If you see gaps, cracked caulking, or metal flashing pulling away, that area needs attention before the weather gets worse.
3. Clean gutters and make sure water can flow
Gutters do not cause leaks by themselves, but clogged gutters force water to sit at the edge of the roof. In freezing weather that becomes ice, and ice wants to push water under your shingles.
Remove leaves and branches from gutters Make sure downspouts are clear Confirm that water can drain away from the foundation
If you are not comfortable on a ladder, call a pro. Your safety is more important than a gutter.
4. Watch for ice dams
Ice dams form when the attic is too warm. Snow melts, runs to the colder edge, then refreezes. The ice blocks new water and sends it under the shingles.
Warning signs:
Big icicles along the eaves Ice only near the bottom of the roof instead of evenly across Water stains on ceilings after snow
Good attic insulation and ventilation help prevent this. If you suspect ice dams, call us before you start breaking ice off. Tools and rock salt can damage shingles and gutters.
5. Check the attic from inside the house
On a cold dry day, go into the attic with a flashlight.
Look for:
Dark stains on wood Wet or matted insulation Sunlight coming through nail holes or gaps A musty smell
Any of these can mean slow leaks that will only get worse once snow and ice sit on the roof for weeks.
6. Know when it is time for a full roof replacement
Small issues can sometimes be patched, but once you see problems in many areas, repairs become band aids. If your roof is older and you see:
Widespread granule loss Many missing or broken shingles Soft or spongy spots when you walk on it Repeated leaks every winter
then it is usually smarter to invest in a full replacement instead of chasing repairs.
At Donnys Home Improvement we install full GAF roofing systems with proper leak barrier, starter, ventilation and ridge cap, backed by strong manufacturer warranties.
Schedule your winter roof check
If you want a professional set of eyes on your roof before the storms roll in, reach out any time.
Free roof replacement estimates seven days a week Serving North Jersey and nearby New York counties GAF Master Elite Presidents Club contractor
Call or text 973 333 6364 or email sales@donnysroofing.com to schedule your winter roof check with Donnys Home Improvement.