Snowstorm Damage: What South Jersey Homeowners Should Check After a Major Winter Storm

Snowstorms in South Jersey can be beautiful—but they can also be tough on your home’s exterior. With heavy, wet snow, strong winds, and constant freeze-thaw cycles, winter storms can cause damage that isn’t always visible right away.

Even if everything looks fine from the ground, issues can develop days or weeks after the snow melts. That’s why post-storm inspections are so important for protecting your roof and exterior.

Below are some of the most common exterior issues we see after major snowstorms—and what homeowners should look out for.

How Winter Storms Affect South Jersey Homes

Unlike areas that stay consistently cold, South Jersey often experiences fluctuating temperatures during winter storms. Snow melts during the day and refreezes overnight, creating ideal conditions for moisture-related damage.

This freeze-thaw cycle can impact:

• Roofs and shingles

• Gutters and drainage systems

• Siding, vents, and trim

• Flashing and roof edges

Many of these issues develop quietly and worsen over time if left unaddressed.

Ice Dams: One of the Biggest Post-Storm Concerns

Ice dams are one of the most common causes of winter roof leaks.

They form when:

• Heat from inside the home and the sun melts snow on the roof

• Melted snow flows toward the roof edge

• Water refreezes at the colder eaves, creating a dam

As water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep under shingles and into your home, leading to leaks, stained ceilings, and damaged insulation.

Signs of ice dam issues include:

• Large icicles hanging from gutters

• Ice buildup along the roofline

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

Watch: We recently shared a short video on YouTube where Frankie explains how ice dams form during South Jersey snowstorms and why they can lead to roof leaks and exterior damage. It’s a quick, helpful breakdown of what to look for after a storm.

Snow and Wind Damage to Roofs

Strong winds combined with heavy snow can loosen or lift shingles, especially on older roofs. Even minor shingle damage can allow moisture to penetrate once snow begins to melt.

The challenge is that this type of damage isn’t always obvious from the ground—and leaks may not appear until weeks later.

Clogged or Frozen Gutters

Gutters play a critical role in directing melting snow away from your home. After a storm, gutters can become clogged with ice, snow, and debris, preventing proper drainage.

When water can’t flow freely, it may:

• Back up under the roof edge

• Spill behind gutters

• Freeze and cause additional stress on the system

Over time, this can lead to roof damage, fascia issues, and interior leaks.

Gable Vents and Exterior Openings

Another commonly overlooked issue after snowstorms is snow intrusion through gable vents and other exterior openings.

Wind-driven snow can enter vents, melt inside the structure, and create moisture buildup that leads to leaks or mold. Homeowners often assume leaks are roof-related, when the source is actually an exterior vent or opening.

Why Post-Storm Inspections Matter

Many winter-related exterior issues start small—but can turn into expensive repairs if ignored. A professional post-storm inspection can help identify problems early, before they cause interior damage.

An inspection typically checks:

• Roof shingles and flashing

• Ice dam risk areas

• Gutters and drainage

• Siding, vents, and trim

• Signs of moisture intrusion

Schedule a Free Post-Storm Inspection

If your home experienced heavy snow, ice, or wind during the recent storm, it’s a good idea to have your exterior checked—even if everything looks fine.

We offer free post-storm exterior inspections and estimates for South Jersey homeowners. Our team will assess your roof and exterior, explain what we find, and help you determine next steps—no pressure.

Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and protect your home after the storm. ⬇️