Winter-Proofing Your Roof: The 2026 Homeowner’s Guide to Preventing Ice Dams and Leaks
Winter is the ultimate “stress test” for a home, and the roof is on the front lines. In 2026, as weather patterns become increasingly volatile, homeowners can no longer afford to ignore their roofing systems until a leak appears on the ceiling.
The primary danger isn’t just a simple hole in a shingle; it’s the Freeze-Thaw Cycle. When temperatures fluctuate, snow melts during the day and refreezes at night. If your roof isn’t properly prepared, this cycle creates ice dams—thick ridges of ice at the eaves that trap water, forcing it upward under your shingles and directly into your home’s structure. A minor $400 maintenance check in October can easily prevent a $15,000 emergency structural repair in mid-January.
Phase 1: The Exterior Inspection (Ground & Ladder)
Before the first frost, conduct a thorough visual audit. You don’t always need to climb a ladder to find trouble; a good …
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