Preparing Your Roof for Heavy Snow and Freezing Temperatures in Wisconsin and Illinois
When winter settles over the Midwest, homes in Wisconsin and Illinois face some of the toughest weather conditions in the country. Between the weight of heavy snow, fluctuating temperatures, and ice buildup, your roof takes on a tremendous amount of stress. Preparing it ahead of time protects your entire home from costly damage.
At Apex General Contracting, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners fortify their roofs before and after harsh winters. Here’s what you can do now to make sure your roof stands strong through every freeze and flurry.
1. Inspect for Existing Damage
Before the first major snowfall, take time to inspect your roof for:
Loose or missing shingles
Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights
Sagging areas that could worsen under heavy snow loads
Gutter or downspout blockages that can trap melting snow and cause ice dams
Even small issues can escalate quickly in winter weather. A professional roof inspection can catch these problems early and prevent them from becoming costly emergencies.
2. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters play a major role in keeping melting snow from refreezing along the roof’s edge. If they’re clogged with leaves or debris, water can back up, freeze, and create ice dams that push moisture under your shingles. Cleaning your gutters before winter helps maintain proper drainage and reduces the risk of leaks or water damage inside your home.
3. Check Your Attic Ventilation and Insulation
Proper airflow and insulation go hand-in-hand in preventing ice dams and heat loss. Warm air escaping from an under-insulated attic can melt snow unevenly on your roof, leading to refreezing near the edges.
A well-insulated, properly ventilated attic:
Keeps your home warmer
Reduces strain on your HVAC system
Helps maintain consistent roof temperatures
If your attic feels warm in winter or you notice uneven melting on your roof, it’s worth having a professional check your ventilation setup.
4. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Snow-laden branches hanging over your roof can break under the weight and cause serious damage. Trimming them back not only protects your shingles and gutters but also reduces the buildup of debris that can block drainage paths in the future.
5. Don’t Let Snow Pile Up
While your roof is built to handle a fair amount of snow, excessive accumulation can put unnecessary pressure on its structure. Heavy wet snow, especially after multiple storms, should be safely removed using a roof rake or by calling a professional snow removal service. Avoid climbing on your roof yourself. Icy surfaces make it extremely hazardous.
6. Schedule a Professional Winter Roof Inspection
If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, a pre-winter inspection can make all the difference. An experienced roofing contractor can assess your roof’s integrity, identify weak spots, and recommend any necessary maintenance or repairs before temperatures drop.
Protect Your Home This Winter with Apex General Contracting
Midwest winters are unpredictable, but your peace of mind doesn’t have to be. Whether you need a quick roof inspection, snow removal assistance, or roof repairs after a storm, Apex General Contracting is here to help.
With decades of experience serving homeowners across Wisconsin and Illinois, our team knows what it takes to keep roofs strong through snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
Schedule your winter roof inspection or repair today and make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings.