Cold Weather Roof Damage: What Property Owners Should Know

With the rapidly dropping temperatures and the possibility of school and office closures due to the presence of ice and snow, I’m sure that we are all ready for the winter weather to pass us by. While we will be happy to get out of our houses and feel a warm breeze on our faces, we cannot neglect the very real problems that are waiting just around the corner. 

Many focus on the problems that the winter weather has in terms of roads and power, and both of these points are important to know about. However, as a construction contractor, there is a very real problem that we have seen and dealt with over the years that many people do not consider: the effects of cold snaps and winter weather on our clients’ properties. 

Did you know that winter weather, especially fluctuations between warm and cold, can cause damage to your roof? This is true of both residential and commercial properties. Whether you are a homeowner or the owner of a commercial property, the impending spring has the potential to bring surprise leaks and unexpected repair bills to your door. But, why is this the case and what can we expect, especially here in Texas?

Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Why This Winter Danger Could Damage Your Roof

The Lone Star State has a lot that sets it apart from the rest of the country: good BBQ, beautiful and diverse scenery, and the ever-fluctuating weather patterns. We’ve all heard the saying “if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” This beloved turn of phrase highlights a very real problem that we can face during the winter as we regularly face a freeze-thaw cycle that can cause damage to, and even worsen existing damage on, your property’s roofing system.

A freeze-thaw cycle on a roof is when water (be it from snow, ice accumulation, or another source) travels along the roof and seeps into cracks or gaps in the roofing materials only to freeze there. Once the water freezes it expands within those openings, forcing the existing gaps and cracks to widen and weaken the roofing structure. This means that, even if the damage was not bad enough to cause a problem previously, you could be walking into the spring showers with leaks that were not there previously. 

The Hidden Dangers of Ice and Snow on Your Roof

While snow in Texas is not a common sight (panhandle aside), ice makes an appearance far more often. The accumulation of ice on a roof can be a common occurrence during cold snaps and winter weather. This is a problem especially for flat or low-slope roofs more commonly found on commercial properties. The additional weight from the snow or, more commonly, the ice that accumulates causes unnecessary stress on both the roofing system and the building’s structure. This can lead to sagging or, in extreme cases, the collapse of your roof. 

How Cold Temperatures Make Roofing Materials Brittle

Another problem that we need to keep an eye on is the potential for our roofing materials to become brittle due to the cold. When the weather becomes cold enough, your roofing materials become more likely to crack, curl, or tear, particularly when they experience stress from wind, hail, or foot traffic. 

Let’s put it this way: imagine you leave a plastic snow shovel outside in freezing weather. When you go to use it to clear your driveway, you notice that the blade cracks easily when it hits the edge of a stubborn patch of ice. This happens because the cold temperatures make the plastic more brittle, reducing its flexibility and causing it to snap under stress. It’s not that your shovel was bad quality; it simply wasn’t designed to withstand such extreme cold. The same can be said of your roofing materials—cold snaps can push them beyond their limits, leading to cracks, leaks, and other damage.

Gutter and Drainage Issues During Cold Weather

Let’s be honest – how often do we clean out our roof gutters, drains, or downspouts? If you’re not enrolled in a property maintenance program (more on services like that from GreenCo to come), then it’s likely that they’ve not been cleaned for quite some time.

It’s a common sight when we are up on a roof. In fact, one of the first things we look for on a Commercial flat roof that has what is called “ponding water” is whether or not it is located by the drainage system. That being said, blockages during and after winter weather can be more common than you would think. A cold snap can quickly freeze water in your roof’s drainage system, even if you’ve maintained it regularly—and especially if debris has accumulated over time.

Unique Roof Challenges for Texas Properties During Winter

We’ve talked about it before—the Lone Star State has a lot to offer, and many of us are proud to be Texans (though that’s a bit different than being a fan of the Texans, but we’ll leave that for another day). Despite all the perks of living here, the weather brings its share of challenges, especially for property owners.

In Texas, our roofs are built to handle blistering summers, not harsh winters. Most are designed with heat resistance as the priority, often featuring materials and structures that deflect UV rays and endure extreme heat. However, this focus on battling the sun means roofs here often lack the insulation or reinforcement seen in colder regions. When temperatures drop suddenly during a cold snap, roofs that usually thrive in the heat can become especially vulnerable.

For commercial properties, the stakes are even higher. Flat roofs and large surface areas are prone to pooling water, which can quickly freeze and form ice dams. This not only adds stress to the roof’s structure but also creates drainage issues that, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant damage. Combined with materials not optimized for freezing temperatures, Texas roofs face unique risks when winter decides to show up uninvited.

Residential roofs face their own set of challenges during cold snaps. Materials like asphalt shingles, common on Texas homes, can become brittle and crack in freezing temperatures, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. Poor attic insulation can exacerbate the issue by causing uneven roof temperatures, leading to ice dams and water damage. Without proper preparation, even a short cold snap can lead to long-term problems for homeowners.

When it comes to roofing in Texas, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The unique climate of the Lone Star State demands roofs that can endure extreme heat while also standing up to the occasional cold snap. Understanding these distinctive challenges helps property owners make informed decisions, ensuring their roofs remain resilient year-round. With the right preparation and care, Texas roofs can handle whatever surprises the weather has in store.

Protect Your Roof: Essential Steps for Texas Property Owners

1. Schedule Regular Inspections

2. Improve Insulation and Ventilation

3. Keep Gutters and Drains Clear

4. Consider Roof Coatings for Extra Protection

5. Inspect After Winter Storms

Protect Your Roof from Winter Damage: Don’t Wait for Leaks

Cold snaps and winter weather may not be the norm in Texas, but they can have a significant impact when they do occur. From freeze-thaw cycles to brittle materials and drainage issues, the unique challenges of the Lone Star State’s climate mean that property owners must stay vigilant to protect their roofs. By understanding these risks and taking proactive steps—like regular inspections, proper maintenance, and strategic upgrades—you can safeguard your roof against unexpected damage and costly repairs. A little preparation goes a long way, ensuring your home or business is ready to weather whatever comes its way, so you can focus on enjoying all the other things that make Texas great.