Experts Weigh In on Protecting Roofs from Winter Damage

From ice dams to heavy snow, roofing experts break down what homeowners should be paying attention to as the snow and cold persists.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Roofing experts say that while ice dams and heavy snow can create issues for older pitched roofs, winter weather itself is no worse than other natural events like wind storms or heavy rains. The average roof is built to handle significant snow loads, and modern roofing materials are designed to withstand high winds. However, water seepage and ice dams remain a concern, which can be addressed with products like ice and water shields. Experts advise homeowners to be cautious when trying to remove ice dams themselves, as damaging the roof in the process can lead to bigger problems.

Why it matters

As New England homeowners brace for another winter of snow and cold, understanding the risks to their roofs and how to properly address them is crucial. Roof damage can lead to costly repairs and even safety hazards, so being proactive about maintenance and knowing when to replace an aging roof are important steps to protect one's home.

The details

Roofing experts say that snow on the roof is not inherently problematic, as it can actually act as insulation to protect the shingles. Even deep snow loads are usually less than what the average roof is designed to bear. The bigger concerns are wind damage, which can tear off shingles and loosen ridge caps, and water seepage that leads to ice dams. Modern roofing materials and techniques, like ice and water shields, help mitigate these issues, but a 30% failure rate means workmanship is still crucial. Homeowners should avoid dangerous DIY attempts to remove ice dams and instead focus on preventative measures or calling in professionals.

  • In the winter of 2015, the 'Snowmaggedon' season led to widespread issues with ice dams.
  • The average roof lifespan is 25 years, according to roofing experts.

The players

Anthony Corrao Jr.

President of Precision Roofing Services of New England, located in Essex.

Bruce Irving

Cambridge-based renovation consultant and Realtor, and former producer of 'This Old House'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Snow on the roof is not a problem in itself. In fact, it acts as an insulator that protects the shingles. And, even when it's deep, the snow's weight is less than what the roof is designed to bear; the average roof is built to carry loads of 65 pounds per square foot.”

— Anthony Corrao Jr., President, Precision Roofing Services of New England (Boston.com)

“The best defense against water seepage is to block seams and holes against infiltration, which is what self-adhering rubberized asphalt products like Ice and Water Shield do. Essentially a sticky roll-out product applied to the roof's edges, valleys, and other seamed areas, before the shingles go on, it blocks water from getting through the sheathing.”

— Bruce Irving, Renovation consultant and Realtor (Boston.com)

What’s next

Homeowners should regularly inspect their roofs for any missing or damaged shingles, and consider replacing an aging roof in late winter or early spring when new materials will adhere best.

The takeaway

While winter weather can pose risks to roofs, from ice dams to heavy snow loads, modern roofing materials and techniques have made homes more resilient. By understanding the warning signs and taking proactive measures, homeowners can protect their roofs and avoid costly repairs.