Winter in Montclair and Glen Ridge is beautiful, but it can be tough on your roof. Between heavy snow, freezing rain, and fluctuating temperatures, local homes take a beating. If you’re dealing with a roof leak during winter, it can feel overwhelming fast. Water dripping from the ceiling during a storm is stressful, and waiting for warmer weather isn’t an option.
Knowing what to do when your roof is leaking in winter can help you protect your home, reduce damage, and make smart decisions in the moment. Here’s what you need to know, and how Haven Roofing Company can help.
Why Winter Roof Leaks Happen in Essex County
A single dramatic event doesn’t always cause winter leaks. More often, they’re the result of weather conditions building up over time.
Some of the most common causes we see in Montclair and Glen Ridge include:
- Ice dams are forming along the roof edges
- Wind-driven snow is working its way under shingles
- Aging asphalt shingles that crack in freezing temperatures
- Flashing issues around chimneys or vents
- Slate or tile pieces shifting after repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Whether your home has asphalt shingles, slate, metal, or tile roofing, winter weather can expose weak points. Even small vulnerabilities can turn into active leaks during a storm.
How to Tell If You Have a Roof Leak During Winter
Sometimes the signs are obvious. Other times, they’re subtle.
Look for:
- Water dripping from ceilings or light fixtures
- Brown or yellow stains spreading across the drywall
- Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
- Damp attic insulation
- Musty odors
If you notice any of these during a snowstorm, you likely have a roof leaking in winter situation that needs attention.
What to Do Immediately
If your roof gets a leak during a winter storm, here’s what to do first:
1. Protect the Interior
You should move anything valuable, including and electronics, away from the affected area. Place buckets or containers under active drips. If water is pooling in your ceiling, you can carefully puncture the drywall to release trapped water and prevent a larger collapse.
2. Contain the Damage
You can start to put down towels or plastic sheeting to protect the flooring. The faster you contain water, the less secondary damage you’ll deal with later.
3. Do Not Climb on the Roof
This is critical. Snow and ice make roofs extremely dangerous. Attempting a DIY fix during a storm can result in serious injury and may make the damage worse.
Instead, call a licensed professional experienced in winter roof leak repair.
Emergency Solutions During a Storm
At Haven Roofing Company, we provide emergency storm damage services, including temporary tarping when conditions allow. If the weather is too severe for immediate exterior repairs, we’ll walk you through safe interior protection steps until we can access the roof.
Our team is trained to handle:
- Emergency leak response
- Temporary tarping
- Storm damage assessments
- Insurance claim documentation
Winter doesn’t stop roofing emergencies, and it doesn’t stop us from responding when it’s safe to do so.
How to Repair a Roof Leak in Winter
Homeowners often ask us, “Is it even possible to repair a roof leak in winter?”
In many cases, yes.
The exact repair method depends on the roofing material and the extent of the damage. We work with:
- Asphalt shingles – replacing cracked or wind-lifted shingles
- Slate roofing – carefully resetting or replacing broken pieces
- Metal roofing – sealing seams or fasteners
- Tile roofing – replacing damaged tiles
Winter roof leak repair may involve temporary stabilization until temperatures allow for permanent materials to properly seal. Our team will always explain what we’re doing and why, so you’re never left guessing.
If damage is more extensive, we’ll discuss whether repair or full roof replacement makes the most sense long-term.
Don’t Forget About Gutters
Clogged or frozen gutters often contribute to winter leaks. When water backs up due to ice buildup, it can work its way beneath shingles and into your home.
We provide seamless gutter installations, gutter guards, and multiple gutter styles to help prevent future winter issues. Proper drainage is one of the most overlooked ways to protect your roof in snowy conditions.
The Importance of a Professional Inspection
After a leak, it’s important to understand the full picture, not just the visible damage.
We offer roof drone inspections to safely evaluate your roof without unnecessary risk. This allows us to:
- Identify hidden storm damage
- Check flashing and penetration points
- Assess overall roof condition
- Document damage for insurance claims
Our background in engineering helps us look at your roof system as a whole, not just a single leak point.
Peace of Mind When You Need It Most
Winter roof leaks are stressful. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Haven Roofing Company, we believe communication is just as important as craftsmanship. We’ll explain what’s happening, outline your options clearly, and give you honest recommendations, no pressure, no guesswork.
We’re fully licensed, insured, and bonded. We use certified crews and top-quality materials. Most importantly, we treat your home like it’s part of our own community, because it is.
Call Haven Roofing Company for Winter Roof Leak Repair
If you’re dealing with a roof leak during winter in Montclair or Glen Ridge, don’t wait for the storm to pass and hope it stops. Quick action can prevent major interior damage and costly repairs.
Whether you need emergency tarping, leak repair, a drone inspection, or guidance on next steps, Haven Roofing Company is here to help.
Call us today to schedule an inspection or request emergency service. Let’s protect your home, no matter what this New Jersey winter brings.
