Horizon Roofing Blog

It’s the middle of a freezing Holland, Michigan night, and you’ve just noticed water dripping from your ceiling. A leaking roof in winter is no one’s idea of fun, but don’t panic—Horizon Roofing has your back with some quick advice to help you minimize damage until professional help arrives.

Step 1: Contain the Leak

First things first, grab a bucket, large bowl, or any container to catch the dripping water. If the leak is spreading, lay down towels or plastic sheets to protect your floors and furniture.

Step 2: Relieve Pressure

If you notice a bulging area in your ceiling, water might be pooling above it. Use a small pin or screwdriver to puncture the center of the bulge carefully. This will allow the water to drain in a controlled way and prevent further damage.

Step 3: Find the Source (If You Can)

Head to your attic with a flashlight and look for the source of the leak. It could be melting snow from an ice dam, a broken shingle, or a loose flashing. If it’s safe, place a tarp or heavy-duty plastic over the leak to slow down the water flow until repairs can be made.

Step 4: Call for Emergency Help

Roof leaks don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. Horizon Roofing offers 24/7 emergency services, so give us a call right away. We’ll assess the situation and provide temporary solutions to keep your home protected until permanent repairs can be scheduled.

Step 5: Stay Safe

Climbing onto a snowy, icy roof in the dark is dangerous—leave that to the professionals. Focus on minimizing interior damage and let us handle the rest.

At Horizon Roofing, we understand how stressful a roof leak can be, especially in the dead of winter. That’s why we’re here to provide prompt, reliable service when you need it most. Stay warm, stay safe, and let us help you restore your home.

Have questions or need assistance? Call us anytime—we’re just a phone call away!

Winter in Holland, Michigan, brings beautiful snowfalls, but it also brings the risk of ice dams on your roof. These icy build-ups may seem harmless at first, but they can lead to serious damage to your home if not addressed. Understanding the dangers of ice dams and how to prevent them can save you from costly repairs and headaches. Here’s what you need to know:

Roof Damage
Ice dams can cause shingles to lift, crack, or loosen, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks and structural issues.

Water Leaks
Melted snow trapped behind ice dams can seep under shingles, leading to water damage in your attic, walls, and ceilings.

Mold Growth
Persistent moisture from leaks can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, risking both property damage and health concerns.

Gutter Problems
The weight of ice dams can damage gutters and downspouts, causing them to sag, detach, or fail entirely.

Insulation Damage
Water from ice dams can soak into attic insulation, reducing its effectiveness and driving up heating costs.

Structural Risks
If left untreated, prolonged ice dam issues can weaken the structure of your roof and lead to costly repairs.

Prevention Tip:
Proper attic insulation, ventilation, and clearing snow from your roof can significantly reduce the risk of ice dams. Stay proactive to protect your home!

If you need advice or a free home roof inspection in the Holland area – give Horizon Roofing a call!