The First Snow Has Fallen — Is Your Roof Ready for the Rest of Winter?

Cleveland has already seen its first snowfall of the season — and for many homeowners, it was a wake-up call.
If your roof struggled during this early round of winter weather, the next snowfall could bring even more problems.

Snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles expose weaknesses fast. A small issue today can turn into a major leak once heavier snow accumulates. That’s why now — right between the first snowfall and the next — is the smartest time to winter-proof your roof.

Your roof has already been tested once. Let’s make sure it’s ready for the rest of the season.

  1. Early Freeze-Thaw Cycles Reveal Hidden Damage

When temperatures bounce between freezing at night and warmer during the day, roofing materials expand and contract.
After the first snow, this cycle becomes more aggressive — worsening any small gaps or cracks already present.

Those cracks become entry points for melting snow, which leads to leaks, attic moisture, and wood rot.
Winter repairs are more expensive and harder to complete, so fixing issues now can save thousands later.

  1. Snow Load Will Only Get Heavier

The first snow is rarely the worst — it’s just the beginning.
Ohio roofs often face:

  • Heavy wet snow
  • Ice storms
  • High winds
  • Repeated freeze-thaw stress

If your roof showed any signs of struggle during the first snowfall — uneven melting, ice forming along edges, or damp spots inside — a professional inspection is essential.

  1. Gutters Already Filling with Debris? Winter Will Make It Worse

Leaves from late fall + the season’s first snow = clogged gutters waiting to freeze.
When gutters freeze with debris inside, water backs up under shingles and causes leaks inside walls and ceilings.

A quick winter check ensures water flows properly when the next round of melting snow arrives.

  1. Flashing Issues Often Appear After the First Snow

Chimney flashing, skylights, and roof-to-wall connections are the first places where winter leaks show up.
If you saw:

  • Drips
  • Stains
  • Damp drywall
  • Frost in the attic

… your flashing may already be compromised.

The good news? These issues are much easier and cheaper to fix before the next storm.

  1. A Post-Snowfall Roof Inspection Is Your Best Protection

Right now is the sweet spot — the first snow exposed vulnerabilities, and the worst winter weather is still ahead.

A free professional inspection from DunRite Exteriors can identify:

  • Early leaks
  • Damaged shingles
  • Weak spots
  • Poor ventilation
  • Failing flashing
  • Areas likely to form ice dams

Fixing issues now prevents emergency calls later — and ensures peace of mind through the rest of the winter.

Winter Has Already Started — Don’t Wait for More Damage

Cleveland’s first snow was just a preview. Prepare your roof now so the next storm doesn’t become a costly disaster.

Schedule your FREE winter roof inspection:
https://calldunrite.com/contact-us/
or call (216) 777-1100

When winter hits Cleveland, homeowners trust one name to protect their roofs — DunRite Exteriors.