What to Do If Your Roof Leaks in the Middle of a Maine Snowstorm

Maine’s winters are no joke. Heavy snow, ice dams, and freezing rain can put a lot of stress on your roof, and sometimes, that stress turns into an unexpected leak—right in the middle of a snowstorm. At HRM Roofing Company, we’ve seen it all, and we know how stressful it can be when water starts dripping from your ceiling in the dead of winter.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your roof starts leaking during a Maine snowstorm.

Contain the Water Immediately

The first thing you need to do is control the water to minimize damage inside your home.

• Place buckets, pots, or containers under the leak to catch the dripping water.
• Use towels or old blankets around the area to soak up any excess moisture.
• If the ceiling is bulging, carefully poke a small hole to let the water drain in a controlled manner—this can prevent the ceiling from collapsing.

Acting quickly can prevent water from spreading to walls, floors, and electrical systems, which could cause even bigger issues.

Identify the Source of the Leak

During a snowstorm, it might not be obvious where the water is coming from. Leaks often happen due to:

• Ice dams – Thick ridges of ice that block water from draining off your roof, forcing it under the shingles.
• Cracked or missing shingles – Wind and snow can loosen or damage shingles, creating gaps for water to seep through.
• Flashing failure – Metal flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights can crack, leading to leaks.
• Condensation issues – Poor attic ventilation can cause warm air to rise and create moisture buildup that mimics a leak.

If the weather is too severe to check the roof safely, wait until the storm passes. In the meantime, take temporary measures to limit damage inside.

Try a Temporary Fix (If It’s Safe to Do So)

If you can safely access the attic, you may be able to slow the leak until professional help arrives.

• Cover the leak with a tarp – If you can reach the leak safely, a heavy-duty plastic tarp can serve as a temporary shield against water.
• Soak up excess moisture – Use towels or sponges to absorb pooled water in the attic to prevent further damage.
• Apply roofing tape or sealant – If you spot a small crack, a quick application of roofing sealant can help stop water from getting in.

However, if your roof is covered in ice and snow, do not attempt to climb onto it—it’s too dangerous.

Address Ice Dams (If They’re the Cause of the Leak)

Ice dams are a major cause of winter roof leaks in Maine. If you suspect an ice dam is the problem, here’s what you can do:

• Use a roof rake – A long-handled roof rake can help remove snow from the lower part of your roof, reducing the buildup that causes ice dams.
• Melt the ice dam with calcium chloride – Fill a sock or pantyhose with calcium chloride (NOT rock salt, which can damage shingles) and place it over the ice dam to slowly melt the blockage.
• Run a fan in the attic – Pointing a fan at the leak area can cool the space and help slow the melting process.

These are temporary fixes. To prevent future ice dams, make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to stop warm air from melting snow on your roof.

Call a Professional Roofer as Soon as Possible

Once the immediate crisis is under control, call HRM Roofing Company for a professional inspection and repair. Even if the leak seems minor, there could be hidden damage that needs attention.

• A professional will check for damaged shingles, flashing issues, and structural concerns.
• If your roof is aging or has suffered significant damage, you may need a more permanent repair or even a replacement.
• We can also help with ice dam prevention strategies, such as adding heat cables or improving your attic insulation.

The sooner you address the issue, the better—you don’t want lingering moisture to lead to mold, wood rot, or insulation damage.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

If the leak caused significant damage, your homeowner’s insurance might cover repairs.

• Review your policy to see if storm-related roof leaks are covered.
• Take photos and document any damage before making repairs.
• If you file a claim, your insurance provider may send an adjuster to assess the damage.

At HRM Roofing Company, we can assist with insurance claims by providing detailed assessments and repair estimates to help you navigate the process.

Prevent Future Roof Leaks Before the Next Storm

Maine’s winters can be unpredictable, so it’s best to prepare your roof before the snow piles up again. Here’s how:

• Schedule an annual roof inspection – Get ahead of potential problems by having your roof checked before winter.
• Keep gutters clear – Clogged gutters can cause ice dams and water backups.
• Ensure proper attic insulation and ventilation – This reduces the risk of ice dams and condensation buildup.
• Trim overhanging branches – Heavy snow can break tree limbs, which can crash onto your roof.

Final Thoughts

A leaking roof during a Maine snowstorm is a serious issue, but with quick action and the right steps, you can minimize damage and keep your home protected.

At HRM Roofing Company, we specialize in winter roofing repairs, ice dam prevention, and emergency services to help Maine homeowners weather the toughest conditions. If your roof is leaking—or you want to make sure it doesn’t happen in the future—contact us today for a professional inspection and repair plan.