The Truth About Emergency Roof Services

What to Do When Winter Storms Hit

When winter storms hit, they can unleash some of the toughest conditions your roof will face. Heavy rain, strong winds, fallen branches, and freezing temperatures can create sudden and unexpected roof problems. And, while NO homeowner wants to deal with a roofing emergency, knowing what to do before one happens can make all the difference. So here’s what every homeowner should know about emergency roof services—and how to protect your home from winter weather.

What would qualify for emergency roof services?

Not every leak requires an emergency roof repair thankfully! But some roofing problems really shouldn’t wait until the next business day. A roofing emergency typically includes:

• Active leaks during heavy rain or snow that are causing further damage
• Missing shingles exposing the roof deck
• Tree limbs or storm debris damaging the roof (especially if it is coming through it!)
• Sagging areas or structural concerns
• Water pouring into the attic or living space

If the damage is putting your home at risk or causing immediate water intrusion, it’s an emergency—and you’ll want a professional roofing company on site as quickly and safely as possible.

Step 1: Stay Safe and Avoid the Roof

So when you are facing emergency, the first step is obviously to stay safe. It’s tempting to climb up and take a look, but climbing on your roof in winter can be extremely slippery and dangerous. Things like ice, snow, and soaked or mossy shingles make it unsafe for anyone without the proper training and equipment to be climbing on. Worse, if your roof is compromised, you could cause additional damage if you’re not super careful. The top priority during a roofing emergency is protecting yourself and your family—so leave the climbing to the professionals if you can.

Step 2: Contain the Water (As Much as Possible)

If water is actively leaking into your home, grab a bucket, towels, or a tarp to help contain the damage. Move nearby furniture or belongings out of the way and keep floors dry to prevent slips. This can help minimize interior damage until an emergency service provider (or roofer) arrives.

Step 3: Call a Roofer Providing Emergency Roof Services

A winter storm emergency needs fast attention from an experienced roofing team. Professional roofers can safely assess the situation, install a temporary patch or tarp, and plan permanent repairs once the weather stabilizes. This immediate response helps prevent further damage and protects your home from additional moisture. It is important to let the roofer know about the damage and ask what their short term, emergency roof services are. Not every roofer is equipped to handle emergency roof projects.

Step 4: Document the Damage

If you’ll be filing an insurance claim, take photos or videos of visible water damage, drips, or storm debris—again, only if it is safe. Clear documentation makes the claims process smoother and helps ensure proper coverage for your home.

Step 5: Schedule Permanent Repairs

A temporary fix is just that—temporary. Once the storm passes, schedule full repairs to address the underlying issue. Winter is actually a perfectly fine season for roofing work, and Dakota’s professional crews are trained to repair roofs safely year-round.

Key Takeaways 

When winter storms hit, preparation and quick action can save you from further damage to your home. If you suspect a roofing emergency, don’t wait—reach out to your local roofing experts and protect your home before the next storm rolls in. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep your roof winter-ready!