If your roof starts leaking during a snowstorm, act quickly but safely: move valuables and catch the water, relieve any bulging ceiling, document the damage with photos, identify whether an ice dam is the cause, and call a professional roofer for emergency help — never climb onto a snow-covered roof yourself. Winter roof leaks are usually caused by ice dams or snowmelt finding a weakness, and because water spreads fast, a prompt response limits the damage. Pete’s Builders helps homeowners across Cheyenne, Laramie, and Scottsbluff handle winter roof emergencies, serving the area since 2015 with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
What causes a roof to leak during a snowstorm?
Winter leaks have distinct causes from summer ones. The most common culprit is an ice dam: heat escaping the house melts snow on the upper roof, the water runs down and refreezes at the cold eaves, and the resulting ice ridge traps meltwater that backs up under the shingles and into the home. Other causes include snowmelt finding an existing weakness — worn flashing, cracked seals, or damaged shingles that were fine in dry weather but leak under sustained moisture — and heavy snow load stressing the roof. Identifying the cause helps determine the right response.
What should you do immediately?
- Protect the inside. Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the leak, and place buckets to catch dripping water.
- Relieve bulging ceilings carefully. If water is pooling above a ceiling, carefully make a small hole to drain it and prevent a larger collapse.
- Document the damage. Photograph the leak and any water damage for your insurance claim.
- Contain and dry. Soak up water and use fans to limit spread and mold once it’s safe.
- Stay off the roof. A snow- and ice-covered roof is extremely dangerous — never climb up during or after a storm.
- Call a professional roofer for emergency assessment and temporary protection.
Why shouldn’t you go on the roof during a snowstorm?
It’s tempting to try to find and fix the leak yourself, but a snow- and ice-covered roof is one of the most dangerous surfaces you can be on. It’s slippery, hides hazards, and offers no secure footing — roof falls are a leading cause of serious winter injuries. Beyond the danger to you, walking on a snow-laden roof can damage it further. The safe approach is to manage the leak from inside, document it, and call a professional who has the equipment and experience to assess and protect the roof safely. No leak is worth risking a serious fall.
How do you know if an ice dam is the cause?
Ice dams leave telltale signs. Look for thick ridges of ice along the roof edges and eaves, large icicles hanging from the gutters, and water stains appearing on ceilings or walls near exterior walls (rather than in the middle of a room). Ice dams typically cause leaks that show up along the perimeter of the house where the eaves are. If you see these signs, the leak is likely an ice dam forcing water under the shingles — which is important to know, because the long-term fix is addressing attic ventilation and insulation, not just patching the roof.
How does a professional handle a winter roof leak?
A professional roofer responds by first assessing the situation safely and, where possible, providing temporary protection to stop water intrusion. They identify the true cause — whether an ice dam, failed flashing, or damaged roofing — and document it for your insurance. For ice dams, a pro can safely reduce the immediate problem and then address the root cause with ventilation and insulation improvements so it doesn’t recur. Once conditions allow, they complete a permanent repair. Throughout, the focus is on stopping the damage and solving the underlying problem, not just treating the symptom.
How do you prevent winter roof leaks?
Prevention comes down to keeping the roof deck cold and the roof in good repair. Ensure proper attic ventilation and insulation to stop the melt-refreeze cycle that creates ice dams — the single most effective prevention. Have ice-and-water shield underlayment at the eaves and valleys. Keep gutters clear so meltwater drains. Address any worn flashing or damaged shingles before winter. And schedule a fall roof inspection to catch weaknesses before the snow arrives. A roof prepared this way is far less likely to leak when a snowstorm hits.
Why choose Pete’s Builders?
Pete’s Builders helps Cheyenne-area homeowners through winter roof emergencies and solves the underlying causes so they don’t recur, with licensed, insured crews, an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and hands-on experience documenting damage for insurance claims. Every response is focused on stopping the damage and fixing the real problem. Service covers Cheyenne, Laramie, Scottsbluff, and surrounding communities.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my roof leaks during a snowstorm?
Move valuables and catch the water, carefully relieve any bulging ceiling, document the damage, stay off the roof, and call a professional roofer for emergency help. Winter leaks are often caused by ice dams and need prompt attention.
Why is my roof leaking when it snows?
The most common cause is an ice dam — melted snow refreezing at the cold eaves and backing water up under the shingles. Other causes include snowmelt finding worn flashing or damaged shingles, and heavy snow load.
Should I go on my roof to fix a leak in winter?
No. A snow- and ice-covered roof is extremely dangerous and roof falls cause serious injuries. Manage the leak from inside, document it, and call a professional to assess and protect the roof safely.
How do I know if an ice dam is causing my leak?
Look for thick ice ridges along the eaves, large icicles at the gutters, and water stains near exterior walls. Ice dams typically cause leaks around the perimeter of the house where the eaves are.
How do I get emergency winter roof help?
Call Pete’s Builders at (307) 514-5489 for emergency winter roof leak assessment, temporary protection, and repair — plus fixing the underlying cause.
Roof leaking this winter? Call for help
Don’t risk a fall or let water spread — get professional winter roof help. Call Pete’s Builders at (307) 514-5489 or visit 1816 Central Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82001 today.