01/23/2026
Prepare Your Roof for the 2026 Ice Storm
Ice storms pose a serious threat to roofing structures, making proactive preparation essential to safeguard your home. Follow these crucial steps to mitigate risks and protect your property:
1. Understand the Risks of Structural Damage and Roof Collapse
- Excessive Weight: Ice can be significantly heavier than snow, with just one inch adding approximately 57 pounds per square foot—three times the weight of typical snowfall.
- Potential for Collapse: Heavy ice loads can bend and break rafters or trusses, particularly in homes with aging structures.
- Falling Branch Hazards: Ice accumulation on nearby trees can lead to branch breakage, potentially damaging roofs and shingles.
2. Prevent Ice Dams and Water Damage
- Formation of Ice Dams: When heat escapes from your home, melting snow can refreeze at the cooler eaves, leading to ice dam formation.
- Water Backup Risk: This can trap water under shingles, causing leaks into the attic, ceilings, and walls.
- Gutter Complications: The weight of ice can sag and detach gutters, leading to further damage.
3. Protect Roofing Materials from Damage
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water entering cracks can freeze and expand, worsening damage to roofing materials.
- Granule Loss: Sliding ice can strip granules from asphalt shingles, making them more vulnerable to UV damage and reducing their lifespan.
- Compromised Flashing: Ice can damage seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights, increasing the risk of water intrusion.
4. Address Safety and Interior Concerns
- Risks of Falling Ice: Large icicles and ice sheets can pose safety hazards, risking property damage and personal injury.
- Mold Growth: Water leaks can foster damp conditions, leading to mold growth—a costly issue to remediate.
- Ventilation Blockage: Heavy ice can obstruct vents, trapping moisture in the attic and degrading insulation.
Preparation Recommendations
- Clear Snow: Use a roof rake to remove snow before it turns to ice. Avoid rock salt or metal tools that can damage shingles.
- Hire Professionals: Engage experts to safely remove ice dams, often utilizing steam to protect roofing materials from damage.
Additional Steps to Take:
- Inspect Your Roof: Look for missing shingles or leaks, or contact us for a professional inspection.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure debris-free gutters to prevent ice dam formation.
- Trim Nearby Trees: Reduce the risk of damage from falling branches.
- Check Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation helps prevent heat loss and reduces ice dam risks.
Contact Us for Professional Inspection
Ensure your home is ready for winter. Contact HALO for a professional inspection—available 24/7 to assist you! We have 4 dedicated employees on our emergency team that are available to assist you.
404-617-9442
770-873-0155
470-442-0083
404-207-9974