What To Inspect On Your Roof After An Ice Storm

Ice storms in Central Texas may not be frequent, but when they hit, they leave behind a trail of damage. For roofing, the accumulation of ice can lead to cracked shingles, damaged flashing, and structural stress. The weight of ice itself poses a major concern, especially for older homes with worn support systems. Even short-term freezing events can loosen roofing materials and create long-term issues if not addressed quickly.

Start With a Visual Ground Inspection

Before grabbing a ladder, begin by walking around your home. Look for sagging sections of the roofline, fallen shingles in the yard, or debris collected in gutters. Also inspect soffits and fascia boards for signs of separation or moisture. If you notice icicles forming from the eaves, this could indicate ice damming—a condition that traps water on your roof and leads to interior leaks. Following the January 2026 ice storm, many Central Texas homeowners reported damage from heavy ice accumulation on tree limbs that subsequently fell onto roof surfaces.

Check for Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles take the brunt of the impact during freezing rain. Asphalt shingles may become brittle and crack, while heavier materials like metal or tile can shift from freeze-thaw cycles. Missing shingles expose the roof underlayment to moisture, which accelerates deterioration. After a storm, scan the roof for bare patches, discoloration, or shingles that appear lifted or curled. In the 2026 storms, wind gusts combined with ice weight often broke the sealant bond on shingles, making them susceptible to further wind-driven rain.

Evaluate Flashing and Roof Penetrations

Flashing is a key waterproofing component around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys. Ice can wedge into these areas, weakening the seal and increasing the risk of water intrusion. Check for cracked caulking, displaced metal, or gaps that may have opened during the freeze. Even small separations around roof penetrations—such as plumbing boots or furnace flues—can lead to significant interior leaks as the ice melts and water flows into newly created gaps.

Inspect the Attic for Hidden Damage

Sometimes the most serious post-storm damage is hidden from view. Head into the attic and look for signs of water intrusion—wet insulation, discolored rafters, or visible frost. Moisture in the attic can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and reduced insulation performance. In Texas homes, which often have lower insulation levels than northern counterparts, warm air leaking into the attic can cause uneven melting on the roof, specifically feeding the growth of dangerous ice dams at the eaves.

Check Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters clogged with ice can detach from the home or cause water to back up under shingles. After an ice storm, ensure gutters are intact and securely fastened. Look for sections that are bent or pulling away from the fascia. Also examine downspouts for blockages; frozen debris can lead to pooling water around your foundation or force water upward into the fascia boards and roof edge.

Monitor for Ongoing Issues After the Storm

Not all damage shows up immediately. Over the weeks following an ice event, keep an eye on ceilings and walls for water stains, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper. These can signal a slow leak that may have started during the freeze. If your energy bills spike, poor insulation or new roof leaks could be the culprit. Pay attention to drafty areas in the attic or around vent pipes, as these may indicate that the "building envelope" was compromised during the freeze-thaw cycle.

When to Bring in a Professional

While some inspections can be done from the ground, many forms of damage require an experienced eye. Micro-fractures in shingles and compromised roof decking are often invisible without a hands-on assessment. If you’re unsure whether your roof has suffered, or if you notice multiple warning signs, it’s time to contact a local expert. Proper documentation, including date-stamped photos of both exterior damage and interior stains, is critical for supporting insurance claims for storm damage.