Wind-driven Snow
Wind-driven Snow | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Oneida
Nestled in the heart of Oneida, HEP’s specialists understand how ferocious lake–effect storms can launch snow and ice against your shingles. Our wind-driven snow roofing service digs deeper than a quick glance; we trace hidden melt paths, check ice-dam pressure points, and spot granule loss before it spirals into leaks. Every shingle, flashing, and vent is evaluated with advanced thermal imaging, so you get crystal-clear proof of what winter has already done—plus a prioritized action plan to keep the next blizzard outside where it belongs.
These detailed roof inspections aren’t just a winter ritual; they’re your ticket to lower repair costs and longer roof life. Whether you own a century-old farmhouse or a modern build downtown, HEP’s local crew arrives ready with same-day reports, transparent pricing, and the friendliness you expect from a neighbor. Book your visit today and discover why Oneida homeowners trust us to turn brutal weather into just another scenic snowfall.
FAQs
Why is wind-driven snow a particular concern for roofs in Oneida?
Oneida sits in the Lake Ontario snowbelt, where frequent lake-effect storms combine strong winds with heavy, powdery snow. Gusts can push that snow up roof slopes and under shingles, flashing, or ridge caps. Once the snow melts and refreezes, it can lift shingles, soak the underlayment, and cause ice dams or interior leaks. The repeated freeze-thaw cycle common in Central New York winters makes wind-driven snow one of the leading causes of cold-weather roof damage in the area.
How often should I schedule a roof inspection for wind-driven snow damage?
We recommend two inspections each year in Oneida’s climate—one in late fall before the first major snowfall and another in early spring after the snowpack has melted. The fall visit ensures all flashing, sealants, and shingles are secure, while the spring follow-up checks for hidden moisture intrusion, shingle displacement, or structural issues caused by the winter’s snow load and winds. If your home experiences an extreme wind or snow event (blizzard warnings or gusts over 50 mph), schedule an additional spot inspection as soon as it is safe.
What does your wind-driven snow roof inspection include?
Our certified inspectors perform a 20-point evaluation: (1) exterior visual check from the ground, (2) ladder inspection of shingles, shakes, or metal panels, (3) close-up review of ridge caps and hip lines, (4) probe of flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents, (5) verification of attic ventilation and insulation depth, (6) infrared moisture scan to locate hidden meltwater, (7) inspection of ice-dam barriers, (8) gutter and downspout integrity, (9) soffit and fascia condition, (10) fastener pull tests on suspect areas, and more. You receive a photo-documented report with repair priorities ranked by urgency.
Does homeowners insurance typically cover wind-driven snow damage to roofs in Oneida?
Most standard HO-3 policies cover sudden and accidental damage from wind or snow, but exclusions apply if the insurer decides the problem resulted from lack of maintenance. Annual inspections and documented upkeep can help validate your claim. We provide dated inspection reports and repair invoices you can submit as proof you took reasonable steps to protect the roof, which often speeds up the claims process with carriers serving the Oneida area.
What signs indicate wind-driven snow has already compromised my roof?
Inside, look for brown ceiling spots, peeling paint near exterior walls, musty attic odors, or daylight shining through the roof deck. Outside, check for lifted or missing shingles, granular loss forming dark horizontal lines, bent metal flashing, icicles forming behind gutters, or damp insulation in the attic. Because wind can drive snow far upslope, leaks may appear several feet away from the actual entry point, so professional tracing is essential.
How can I prepare my roof before winter to minimize wind-driven snow problems?
1) Schedule a fall inspection to seal exposed nail heads, reseal flashing, and replace damaged shingles. 2) Clear gutters of leaves to prevent ice-dams from backing meltwater under shingles. 3) Add or replace ice-and-water shield at eaves and valleys. 4) Verify attic ventilation—cold, well-ventilated attics reduce snowmelt that refreezes. 5) Trim overhanging branches that can deposit extra snow or break onto the roof. 6) Keep a roof rake handy to safely remove excess snow (but never climb the roof in winter). These steps, combined with routine professional inspections, greatly lower the risk of costly wind-driven snow damage.