Colorado winters bring stunning mountain views, frosted trees—and sometimes, roofing emergencies. If your roof suddenly starts leaking during a snowstorm, the situation can escalate quickly. Water damage, mold, and structural issues can develop in a matter of hours if not addressed promptly and properly.
Knowing what to do in those critical first moments can save you thousands in repairs and protect your home until help arrives. At Blue Frog Roofing, we specialize in emergency roof repair throughout the colder months, and we’re here to guide you through what to do if snow starts seeping in.
Step 1: Contain the Water
The first priority is to minimize interior damage. Move furniture, electronics, and valuables out of the affected area. Place buckets, pots, or plastic bins under the leak to collect dripping water. If water is splashing onto the floor, line the buckets with towels to absorb impact.
Pro Tip: If the ceiling begins to bulge, use a screwdriver to carefully puncture a small hole to relieve pressure and prevent the entire ceiling panel from collapsing.
Step 2: Reduce Interior Moisture
Leaks during a snowstorm often mean you’re dealing with cold, humid conditions inside. To prevent mold and additional damage:
- Run fans to increase air circulation
- Use a dehumidifier if available
- Keep heating systems running to dry out affected areas
These steps won’t stop the leak, but they’ll slow moisture buildup and help protect your drywall, flooring, and insulation from long-term damage.
Step 3: Look for the Source (If It’s Safe)
Snowstorm leaks are commonly caused by:
- Ice dams: When melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, it forces water under shingles.
- Clogged gutters: Blocked drainage can redirect melting snow into your home.
- Damaged flashing or shingles: Wind and snow can rip off parts of the roof or expose seams.
Don’t climb onto the roof in bad weather—use binoculars or look for interior water trails that may help pinpoint the problem.
Step 4: Apply a Temporary Fix (Only If Safe)
If weather permits and you can safely reach the roof, try one of these temporary solutions:
- Tarp the area: Place a waterproof tarp over the damaged section, extending it from the ridge to the gutter line. Anchor with boards and secure tightly to prevent wind lift.
- Roofing tape or plastic sheeting: From inside, tape a plastic sheet across the ceiling area to redirect water into a bucket.
- Apply sealant: For small, visible cracks, you can apply roofing sealant directly—just know this is only a short-term measure.
If accessing the roof requires a ladder on ice or snow, wait for professionals. The risk of injury isn’t worth it.
Step 5: Call a Professional Roofer Immediately
Winter roofing is dangerous, and repairs during a snowstorm should never be a DIY project. A qualified professional will:
- Use safety equipment and winter-ready tools
- Properly diagnose the root cause of the leak
- Recommend both short-term patches and long-term fixes
At Blue Frog Roofing, we provide fast, reliable emergency services, even in the dead of winter. Whether it’s a residential issue or a larger commercial structure, our team is trained to assess and repair roof leaks caused by snow, ice, and storm damage.
Why Speed Matters
Delaying roof repairs in a snowstorm can lead to:
- Water-soaked insulation
- Mold and mildew growth
- Structural damage to rafters and ceilings
- Compromised electrical systems
What starts as a drip can quickly turn into a disaster. Acting fast and calling a roofing expert can save you thousands in repairs.
FAQ: Snowstorm Roof Leaks
1. Can a roof be repaired in the middle of winter?
Yes. Many professional roofing companies, including Blue Frog Roofing, have the equipment and expertise to perform emergency repairs during winter, weather permitting.
2. Is it safe to tarp my own roof in a snowstorm?
Generally, no. Snow and ice make roofs slippery and hazardous. Leave exterior repairs to professionals unless the weather is completely clear and you have proper safety gear.
3. Will insurance cover roof leaks from snow?
It depends on your policy. Some plans cover snowstorm damage, but not issues caused by neglect or poor maintenance. We recommend checking your policy and documenting everything for your claim.
4. Are interior ceiling stains always a sign of roof damage?
Not always. They could also be caused by plumbing leaks or condensation. But if they appear after snow, it’s best to schedule a professional roof inspection.
5. How do I prevent leaks before winter?
Schedule a pre-winter roof inspection, clear your gutters, check for damaged shingles, and install proper attic insulation to prevent ice dams.
Don’t Wait Until the Drip Turns into a Disaster
If you’re facing a leaking roof in a Colorado snowstorm, call Blue Frog Roofing immediately. Our experienced team provides emergency roof repair, residential roof inspections, and long-term solutions to keep your home dry, warm, and safe—no matter what the weather throws your way.
Contact Blue Frog Roofing now to schedule your emergency repair or winter inspection. We’ll get you through the storm—one shingle at a time.