Common Causes of Roof Damage in the Winter

Roof damage is one of the leading causes of property damage. Indeed, according to data from CAPE Analytics, approximately one-third of all residential property damage claims in the United States are storm-related roof damage claims. A disproportionate share of roof damage happens during the winter. At Insurance Claim HQ, we have extensive experience representing policyholders in roof damage cases. Within this blog post, our New Orleans roof damage lawyers provide an overview of the most common causes of roof damage during the winter season.

Winter Roof Damage is a Serious Potential Threat

Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your property. Homeowners and business owners need to keep their roof in proper condition. Roof damage can be costly—and it can spread if left unaddressed. Notably, winter roof damage is a serious potential threat for property owners. Snow, ice accumulation, and freezing temperatures can weaken roofing materials, causing leaks, structural damage, and even collapse. Ice dams can form when snow melts and refreezes, creating blockages that trap water under shingles. That moisture can seep into your home—and might be the root cause of some very costly repairs. Homeowners and business owners should prioritize roof inspections and maintenance before winter hits to prevent expensive damage.

What Causes Roof Damage?

Roof damage can happen in the winter months in a number of different ways. Here are four of the most common causes of property damage to the roof in the winter:

• Snow Damage to Roof: While heavy snow is uncommon in the Southeastern United States, it can cause serious property damage when it happens. Indeed, snowfall can place immense weight on your roof. Wet snow tends to be heavier snow—meaning there is more moisture content and it is putting more pressure on the roof. Indeed, snow can contribute to structural strain or even collapse if the load becomes excessive. Flat or low-pitched roofs are particularly vulnerable because snow does not slide off as easily. Many homeowners in our region have roofs that are not designed to handle significant snowfall.

• Ice Damage to Roof: Ice poses another threat to your roof. Indeed, ice is one of winter’s most destructive forces when it comes to roofs. Ice dams form when heat from inside the property causes snow to melt and refreeze at the roof’s edges. Why is that so hazardous for homeowners and business owners? It can create thick ice barriers. These barriers prevent proper drainage, and they often cause water to flow underneath shingles or other roofing materials. Water is a problem for your home or business. You do not want uncontrolled water getting through any part of your roof. Notably, freeze-thaw cycles can also expand cracks in roofing materials. That could lead to even more serious leaks.

• Wind Damage to Roof: Winter storms are not just about snow and ice. There is often a lot of wind associated with the weather system. Cold-blowing winds can cause a tremendous amount of property damage, including roof damage. Gusting winds may lift or loosen shingles, leaving the roof exposed to moisture and the elements. High winds can also tear off flashing or other critically important roofing components. After any major winter storm, property owners should inspect their roofs for missing shingles, damaged materials, or any other signs that something went wrong. Wind damage is often covered by insurance.

• Tree Damage to Roof: Are there trees near your home or business? Those trees could pose a threat during a serious winter storm. Winter storms and heavy snow can cause tree limbs—or entire trees—to break and fall onto roofs. As the Southeastern U.S. sees fewer winter storms, many trees in our region are especially susceptible to damage when one happens. Indeed, the proportional tree damage caused by winter storms tends to be higher in areas where winter weather systems are less common.

Four Tips for Bringing a Winter Roof Damage Claim

Did your home or business sustain significant damage to the roof in a winter storm? You have the right to bring a property insurance claim to seek all of the benefits that are available through your policy. Unfortunately, insurance companies can be challenging to work with—especially in roof damage claims. Here are four tips for bringing a winter weather roof damage claim:

1. Know the Scope of Your Insurance Coverage: Before filing a winter roof damage claim, you should carefully review your insurance policy to understand what is and is not covered. Policies typically cover damage caused by sudden events like snowstorms, ice buildup, or falling trees. In contrast, property insurance policies often exclude damage caused by gradual wear and tear or homeowners/business owner neglect. As a policyholder, you should pay attention to specific clauses regarding winter-related issues, such as ice dams or wind-driven damage. Knowing your deductible, coverage limits, and exclusions will put you in the best position to bring a successful claim.

2. Carefully Document Your Roof Damages: Documentation is one of the most important aspects of the property insurance claims process. You should carefully and comprehensively document all of the damages caused by the winter storm. As a general rule, it is best to start by taking clear photographs and videos of the damage from multiple angles—including things like interior leaks, fallen debris, or damaged roofing. You should note the date of the incident, the weather conditions at the time, as well as any related damage to gutters, walls, or interior ceilings.

3. Consult With a Property Damage Lawyer: Winter weather roof damage claims are complicated. It is normal to have a lot of questions about your rights and your options after a major storm. You do not have to take on the property insurance claims process alone. An experienced lawyer will review your insurance policy, assist with documentation, and negotiate with insurance adjusters. A top-tier property casualty attorney can help you get the best outcome. Do not rely on any insurance company to look out for your best interests.

4. File for Roof Damage Benefits: Once you have thoroughly documented the winter storm roof damage—and you have reviewed the terms of your coverage—it is time to file for your property insurance benefits. In doing so, you should be sure to include all supporting evidence—from photographs to roof repair estimates to detailed descriptions of the damage. Be thorough when filing a claim. Notably, your insurer will likely schedule an adjuster to inspect the damage.

Why Trust the New Orleans Roof Damage Attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ

Dealing with roof damage to your home or business can be especially stressful and frustrating.

Winter roof damage needs to be addressed as soon as possible. At Insurance Claim HQ, we help homeowners and business owners navigate the complexities of the claims process. Our record of case results demonstrates what we can do for property owners. It is our mission to help homeowners and/or business owners secure the maximum financial benefits through their insurance company. If you have questions about your options, our Louisiana roof damage lawyers provide free, fully confidential, and zero-obligation initial consultation.

Contact Our New Orleans Roof Damage Lawyer Today

At Insurance Claim HQ, our New Orleans property damage attorneys have extensive experience handling roof damage claims. It is our mission to help policyholders secure the maximum benefits.

If your home or business sustained significant roof damage in a winter storm, we are here to help.

Contact us right away to set up your free, no-strings-attached case review. We handle roof damage claims in New Orleans, Louisiana, and throughout the wider Gulf Coast region.