Winter weather in Long Island can be unpredictable — from heavy snowfall and ice storms to freezing winds and cold rain. As a homeowner, preparing your roof for the winter season is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your property from water damage, heat loss, and costly repairs.
At ELED Construction, we help Long Island residents get their roofs winter-ready with professional inspections, maintenance, and repairs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key steps to prepare your roof for winter — and explain why it matters.
Need help winterizing your roof? Call (631) 552 6884 or request a free estimate today.
Why Winter Prep Matters
When winter hits, your roof is your home’s first defense against moisture, snow, ice dams, and wind damage. A small issue left untreated in the fall can become a major repair in the middle of winter. Proper preparation prevents:
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Costly leaks and water intrusion
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Structural damage from snow and ice buildup
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Indoor heat loss and rising energy bills
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Dangerous ice dams at the roof edge
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
The most effective way to prepare for winter is to have your roof inspected by a qualified contractor. At ELED Construction, we examine:
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Shingle condition and placement
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Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
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Roof decking and underlayment integrity
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Gutters, downspouts, and drainage
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Attic insulation and ventilation
Catching issues early can prevent serious problems once snow and freezing temperatures arrive.
2. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters are a major cause of winter roof damage. Leaves, debris, and ice can prevent proper drainage, leading to:
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Ice dams at the eaves
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Water backing up under shingles
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Fascia board damage
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Gutter detachment or collapse
Clear out gutters and downspouts before temperatures drop. Consider adding gutter guards for ongoing protection.
3. Repair Damaged or Missing Shingles
Strong winter winds and freeze-thaw cycles can turn a small roofing defect into a large leak. If you notice:
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Curling or cracked shingles
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Missing or loose shingles
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Exposed nail heads or deteriorated sealant
…have them repaired or replaced before snow or ice settles in.
4. Check Flashing and Seals
Flashing is the metal installed around chimneys, skylights, dormers, and valleys to prevent water intrusion. Even small gaps can let snowmelt in. Ensure:
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Flashing is securely fastened and not rusted
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Caulking or sealant around penetrations is intact
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No signs of water stains or rust on interior ceilings
5. Inspect Attic Insulation and Ventilation
A warm attic can melt snow on your roof too quickly, which refreezes at the edges and creates ice dams. Ice dams trap water, which can back up under shingles and cause leaks.
Make sure your attic has:
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Sufficient insulation to keep heat inside your home
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Proper ventilation to allow air circulation and reduce condensation
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No visible signs of moisture or mold
6. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to snap and fall onto your roof. Trim trees back from your home to prevent:
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Roof punctures
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Shingle damage
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Blocked gutters
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Risk of injury or power outages
7. Remove Debris from the Roof Surface
Leaves, sticks, and dirt trap moisture and promote mold, rot, and algae growth. Cleaning off the roof before winter reduces the chance of trapped moisture and clogged drainage pathways.
8. Have a Roof Emergency Plan
Sometimes, winter weather causes sudden roof damage — such as from falling ice, heavy snow accumulation, or wind-driven debris. Know who to call when you need emergency repairs.
ELED Construction provides fast, responsive roof repair services all winter long.
Protect Your Home This Winter with ELED Construction
A little preparation goes a long way. With a properly maintained and winterized roof, you can avoid costly repairs and rest easy knowing your home is protected from the elements.
Let our expert team inspect, repair, and prepare your roof — with high-quality workmanship and friendly, local service you can count on.
Call ELED Construction at (631) 552 6884 or click here to request a free winter roof inspection.
