1) Safety First: What NOT to Do After a Winter Storm

Before you inspect anything, keep safety at the top of the list. Ice, slick roofs, and unstable branches create real risk.

• Do not climb on your roof when snow/ice is present or when the ground is slick.
• Stay clear of sagging gutters or areas where icicles are hanging—ice can fall unexpectedly.
• Avoid power lines if limbs are down. Call your utility provider immediately.
• Be cautious with roof rakes and tools—scraping shingles aggressively can cause damage.

For official winter safety guidance, Ready.gov has a helpful resource on winter weather preparedness and hazards:
https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

2) Quick Post-Storm Checklist (5–10 Minutes From the Ground)

Start with a simple walk-around inspection. You can catch many warning signs without ever stepping on a ladder.

Look for these roof-related signs:

• Missing, lifted, or crooked shingles (often visible along edges, ridges, and valleys).
• Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and wall intersections.
• Icicles and ice buildup that may indicate poor drainage or ice dam conditions.
• Tree limbs on the roof or nearby branches hanging over the roofline.
• Shingle debris or granules accumulating at downspouts or on the ground.

Look for these gutter-related signs:

• Sagging gutters (heavy snow/ice can pull gutters loose from the fascia).
• Separated seams, leaks, or drips at corners and end caps.
• Bent downspouts or downspouts pulled away from the wall.
• Overflow stains on siding—evidence water wasn’t draining properly.
• Ice-filled gutters that may block meltwater and cause backup under shingles.

3) Check Inside Your Home (Where Winter Roof Damage Often Shows Up First)

After a storm, interior clues can reveal a roof issue before you see anything outside.

• Water stains on ceilings or walls (often brown/yellow rings).
• Dripping around vents, chimney areas, or skylights.
• Musty odors in the attic or upper floors.
• Damp insulation or wet attic decking (if you can safely access the attic).

If you notice interior leaking, it’s important to act quickly—document it and arrange an inspection to prevent mold and
structural issues.

4) Watch for Ice Dams and “Freeze/Thaw” Damage

One of the most common winter roof problems is an ice dam—when snow melts on a warmer part of the roof,
refreezes at the colder eaves, and forms a barrier. Water can back up behind that ice and work its way under shingles,
leading to leaks.

The National Weather Service outlines practical steps homeowners can take (including keeping gutters and downspouts clear
so meltwater can drain):
https://www.weather.gov/grr/roofIceDams

Common signs of ice dams:

• Large icicles along the gutter line
• Ice buildup at the roof edge
• Water stains on interior exterior walls near the ceiling
• Dripping behind gutters

5) Fallen Limbs and “Hidden” Impact Damage

Winter storms often bring heavy snow loads and ice that snap branches. Even a small limb can damage shingles, puncture
underlayment, bend flashing, or crush a gutter section. Larger limbs can compromise decking and structural framing.

If anything struck your roof—especially near valleys, ridges, vents, or skylights—schedule a professional inspection.
CLT Improvements can help identify the full scope of damage and explain your best repair or replacement options.

6) How to Document Damage for an Insurance Claim

If you suspect roof damage from snow, ice, or fallen objects, documentation matters. Good photos and clear notes
can make the claim process smoother.

1. Take wide photos of the home (all sides) and close-ups of visible damage from the ground.
2. Record the date of the storm and any notable weather details (snow/ice accumulation, fallen limbs, etc.).
3. Photograph interior evidence (ceiling stains, drips, wet insulation) if present.
4. Save receipts for any emergency mitigation (temporary tarps, water cleanup, etc.).
5. Do not discard damaged materials until you’ve documented them (when safe and feasible).

Need help navigating the next step? CLT Improvements works with homeowners to provide inspections, documentation support,
and professional repairs—plus we can help communicate with your insurance process when storm damage is involved.
Learn more here:
Insurance Claims Assistance

7) Why Homeowners Call CLT Improvements After a Winter Storm

Winter damage isn’t always obvious—and getting it wrong can lead to repeat leaks or larger repairs later. CLT Improvements
is an expert in exterior repairs, including roofing and gutters, and we focus on diagnosing the real cause (not just treating
symptoms).

• Roof inspections to identify storm-related damage and vulnerable areas
• Gutter repairs and replacements when snow/ice loads pull systems loose
• Storm impact assessments from fallen limbs and debris
• Insurance claim support for qualifying storm damage
• Clear recommendations with photos and straight answers

If you need roof service specifically, explore our roofing options here:
Roofing Services

When to Call a Professional Immediately

If you notice any of the following, it’s smart to schedule a professional inspection right away:

• Active leaks or water stains forming inside
• Gutters pulling away, bowing, or sagging
• Shingles missing or visibly lifted
• Tree limbs on the roof or signs of impact
• Large ice buildup along roof edges (possible ice dam)

Free Post-Storm Inspection and Help With Next Steps

If your home was hit by winter weather, don’t wait for the next rainstorm to find out you have damage. CLT Improvements can
inspect your roof and gutters, identify issues that aren’t visible from the ground, and help you understand whether repairs
or an insurance claim may be appropriate for damage caused by snow, ice, or fallen objects like tree limbs.

Request a free estimate and get expert guidance from a team that specializes in exterior repairs and storm damage:
Contact CLT Improvements