The Winter Roof Guide: What Snow Build-Up Tells You About Roof Health

When snow hits mid-Missouri, most homeowners focus on driveways and sidewalks — but your roof is quietly revealing important clues about its health. Snow build-up, melting patterns, and even icicles can tell you a lot about insulation, ventilation, and structural issues long before spring storms arrive.

As a home inspector serving Jefferson City, Columbia, and Southern Boone County, I see winter reveal problems that stay hidden most of the year. Here’s what to watch for after a snowfall.

1. Uneven Snow Melt: A Sign of Heat Loss or Poor Insulation

• Inadequate attic insulation
• Air leaks around can lights or attic access
• Hot spots from ductwork or furnace exhaust
• Poor attic ventilation

Uneven melt patterns can increase utility bills, create moisture problems, and lead to ice dams.

2. Heavy Snow Build-Up Can Signal Structural Weakness

Excessive snow accumulation may indicate issues with:

• Roof pitch
• Weak trusses or rafters
• Poor drainage
• Sagging or low spots

3. Icicles Are More Than a Winter Decoration

Icicles form when heat escapes through the attic, melts the snow, and refreezes at the gutters. This can signal:

• Heat loss
• Ventilation issues
• Clogged gutters
• Potential ice dams

4. Snow Drift Patterns Reveal Wind and Roofing Problems

Snow drifting in unusual patterns may indicate:

• Missing shingles
• Loose flashing
• Ridge vent issues
• Wind-driven vulnerabilities

5. Exposed Roof Patches May Indicate Hot Spots or Material Failure

If snow melts faster in certain areas, you may be seeing signs of:

• Failing shingles
• Worn-out underlayment
• Heat escaping
• Exhaust vents blowing onto shingles

6. When to Call a Professional

Schedule an inspection if you notice:

• Uneven melting
• Persistent icicles
• Sagging areas
• Water stains inside after snow melts
• Gutters overflowing during freeze-thaw cycles

AW Inspections offers full home inspections, pre-listing inspections, and maintenance inspections to help you stay ahead of winter damage.

Serving Jefferson City, Columbia, and Southern Boone County.