Signs Your Roof Didn’t Hold Up This Winter

‍Why Winter Damage Happens Even Without a Major Storm

Many Pittsburgh homeowners assume that if their roof made it through a snowy winter without leaking, everything’s fine. But repeated freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and ice formation can cause stress fractures, material degradation, and hidden moisture buildup that becomes a problem later.

Common causes of winter roof damage in North Hills:

• Ice dams forming along roof edges
• Wind-driven snow infiltration under shingles
• Freeze-thaw cracking in flashing and sealants
• Trapped attic moisture and poor ventilation
• Aging materials exacerbated by cold weather

Let’s dive into the signs that your roof didn’t hold up this winter, and what you can do about it.

1. You Notice New Water Stains or Ceiling Discoloration

One of the most visible signs of post-winter roof failure is a water stain on the ceiling or upper walls. Even small brown rings or damp patches can signal a deeper problem, especially if they appear after snow has melted or after a rain.

What to look for:

• Yellowish or brown stains on ceilings near exterior walls
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Dripping from ceiling light fixtures or vents
  
  

Why it matters:
Leaks from winter roof damage often go unnoticed until spring rains arrive. By then, moisture may have already spread into insulation and wall cavities.

Learn more: Understanding Roof Leaks: Common Causes and Solutions

2. Your Gutters Are Pulling Away or Overflowing

If your gutters look crooked or detached, winter may have left its mark. Ice dams and refreezing water can put immense pressure on gutters, causing them to separate from the fascia or overflow during snowmelt.

Signs to check:

• Gutters sagging or pulling away from the roofline
• Visible gaps between gutter and fascia
• Water stains or mold growth near gutter seams

Gutters are critical for protecting your roof and foundation from water intrusion. Damaged or clogged systems are often a red flag that your roof edge took winter damage.

3. Shingles Are Missing, Cracked, or Curled

Heavy snow, wind, and ice can degrade shingle performance. In early spring, it’s common to find shingles that are:

• Blown off by winter winds
• Cracked from freeze-thaw expansion
• Curled or lifting at the edges

Even minor shingle damage can lead to exposed underlayment, which makes your roof more vulnerable to leaks and UV damage in the spring and summer months.

Tip: After a windy storm or heavy snowfall, walk around your property and check for shingle debris in your yard or downspouts.

For more, read: Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Repair: A Homeowner’s Guide

4. Your Attic Feels Damp or Has a Musty Smell

A healthy attic should be dry and well-ventilated. After winter, if you notice:

• Musty or mildew-like odors
• Wet insulation or visible condensation
• Mold on rafters or roof decking

It's time to inspect your ventilation system. Poor attic ventilation in cold weather leads to moisture buildup, which causes rot, mold, and reduced insulation effectiveness.

Related read: Understanding Roof Ventilation in Cold Weather

5. Ice Dams Formed Repeatedly This Winter

If you noticed large icicles or ridges of ice along your roof’s edge, it’s a clear sign that your attic insulation or ventilation wasn’t performing correctly.

Consequences of untreated ice dams:

• Water backing up under shingles
• Soaked attic insulation
• Ceiling leaks or wall stains
• Long-term structural damage

Ice dams often cause damage in hidden areas first, so an inspection is highly recommended even if you don’t see visible leaks yet.

6. Your Energy Bills Were Higher Than Normal

If your heating system ran constantly this winter, or you noticed inconsistent temperatures between floors, your roof may be leaking warm air.

This is especially common in homes with:

• Aging shingles or roof systems
• Poor attic insulation
• Blocked or missing ridge and soffit vents

A roof that’s not properly sealed or insulated forces your HVAC to work harder, leading to higher utility bills and premature system wear.

7. You See Granules in Your Downspouts or Around the Foundation

Granules protect your shingles from UV rays and water. After a tough winter, granules may loosen due to expanding ice, scraping snow, or aging. If you notice dark sand-like particles:

• In your downspouts or gutters
• Around the base of your home
• On flat surfaces near the roofline

This means your shingles are deteriorating, and the waterproofing layer beneath may be exposed.

8. Sagging Rooflines or Visible Dips

If you notice parts of your roofline dipping or sagging, your roof may have suffered structural stress this winter.

This could indicate:

• Wet or rotted decking
• Compromised rafters
• Damage from trapped ice or snow

Sagging is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately by a professional. Left untreated, it could lead to collapse or full roof replacement.

Don’t Wait for Spring Rains to Reveal the Damage

By the time you see leaks or feel drafts, the damage has likely already happened. A spring roof inspection gives you the chance to identify and fix winter-related issues while they’re still manageable and affordable.

At M.A. Thompson Roofing, we specialize in post-winter roof evaluations and repairs for homeowners in Pittsburgh’s North Hills. Trust us to protect your home with expert inspections and cost-effective repairs, right here in the North Hills.

Schedule your post-winter roof inspection now.
M.A. Thompson Roofing – Quality. Experience. Community. Since 1976.