Can Snow Melt Leak?

As snow melts on your roof, water can back up under shingles due to ice dams. These dams form when heat from your attic melts snow higher on the roof, and the water refreezes at the colder eaves. The trapped water then seeps under shingles, damaging roof decking, insulation, and ceilings. Even without ice dams, heavy meltwater can exploit existing minor roof cracks or worn flashing.

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles during cold winters can worsen small vulnerabilities. Water that enters the attic can then drip down walls or pool on insulation, leading to hidden moisture. Once inside, this water quickly spreads to other parts of your home. It is crucial to address roof leaks from snowmelt promptly to prevent structural issues.

If you see water stains or dripping, your first step is to safely stop the flow if possible. For a roof leak, placing a bucket under the drip can protect floors. For a basement leak, move belongings away from the wet area. Shut off electricity to affected areas if it is safe to do so, and avoid contact with standing water near outlets.

Then, contact local water damage pros. They have the equipment to extract water, set up drying systems, and assess the full extent of the damage. Acting quickly helps limit the damage and reduces the chance of mold growth. Document the damage with photos for your records, as this can be helpful for insurance purposes. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

• Move furniture, rugs, and electronics away from the water.
• Use towels to soak up small standing puddles.
• Increase air circulation by opening windows if weather permits.
• Punch a small hole in a sagging ceiling to release trapped water.
• Do not use standard household vacuums to remove water.
• Avoid walking on soaked ceilings from the floor above.

You should call the pros whenever water has soaked into building materials like drywall, insulation, or subflooring. These materials hold moisture and require professional drying techniques to prevent mold and structural decay. If the affected area is larger than a few square feet, or if you smell a persistent musty odor, professional assessment is warranted.

The pros use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden dampness you might miss. They then employ industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the structure properly. Attempting to dry significant water damage yourself often leads to lingering moisture and costly problems later. Their systematic approach addresses both the visible water and the moisture within walls and floors.