Westchester Winter Weather: Protecting Your Roof and Gutters from Wind, Ice, and Snow

Here in Westchester County, we’re no strangers to wild winter weather. Whether you’re along the Long Island Sound, where fierce coastal storms batter homes with howling winds and driving rain, or near the Hudson River, where storms rip up and through the valley like a freight train, winter in the Northeast can be brutal on our roofs and gutters. And for those of us living in the hills and valleys in between, heavy gusts, sudden snow squalls, and icy conditions create an unpredictable mix of weather that puts our homes defenses to the test.
No matter where you live in Westchester, one thing is certain: your roof and gutters take the brunt of these winter storms. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that a little attention now can save a whole lot of trouble (and expense) later.
As our founder, George Curi, always says:
“Mother Nature doesn’t take a day off, and neither do we. Your home is your biggest investment, and when high winds, heavy snow, or thick ice start causing problems.”
We’ve been working on Westchester homes for years, and we’ve seen firsthand how winter weather can take a toll on roofs and gutters. Here are five of the most common issues we deal with after a big storm—plus some tips on how you can protect your home.
1. Wind-Damaged Roof Flashing: Small Issue, Big Problem
Roof flashing—the thin metal strips around chimneys, vents, skylights, and roof edges—is one of the most vulnerable parts of your roof in high winds. When storms tear through Westchester, especially in the Hudson River corridor where gusts accelerate between hills, flashing can lift, bend, or even rip away completely.
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- Loose or missing metal around chimneys, vents, or skylights.
- Water stains on ceilings or walls, which may indicate a leak.
- Rusted or cracked flashing, which weakens its protective seal.
- After a storm, take a walk around your home and check for any flashing that looks out of place.
- If you notice water spots on your ceiling, don’t ignore them—leaks only get worse over time.
- Have a professional inspect and secure any loose flashing before it turns into a costly repair.
2. Skylights and Snow Load: A Dangerous Combination
We love the natural light that skylights bring, but in a Westchester winter, they’re often the first place we see weather-related problems.
Coastal homes along the Sound face a double threat: salty, wind-driven rain wears down seals, and heavy, wet snow that puts pressure on the glass. In higher elevations, where snowfall can be more intense, skylights can crack under the weight.
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- Water pooling around the inside of the skylight.
- Condensation between the panes of glass, a sign of seal failure.
- Visible cracks or stress marks on the skylight itself.
- Keep the area around skylights clear of snow using a roof rake (never climb up there yourself!). Or call my team out to help.
- Check for leaks or drafts around the edges, especially after a storm.
- If you see condensation inside the glass, the seal may be failing—get it checked out before leaks start.
3. Ice Dams: The Silent Roof Destroyer
“If you see big icicles hanging from your gutters, it’s not just a winter wonderland—it’s a red flag.” —George Curi
Ice dams are a major problem here in Westchester, especially in homes with poor insulation or ventilation. When heat escapes from the attic, it melts the snow on the roof. That melted water runs down to the colder roof edge, where it refreezes into a thick, heavy ice barrier. The longer it sits, the more water backs up under your shingles—and that’s where the real trouble begins.
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4. Wind and Snow Damage to Shingles: A Common, Costly Issue
Heavy snow and strong gusts can wreak havoc on shingles, especially on homes exposed to the full force of the Hudson River’s storm corridor. Westchester’s older homes, in particular, are at risk if shingles have started to wear out over time.
What to Watch For:
- Shingles that look curled, cracked, or missing altogether.
- Pieces of shingles or roofing material on the ground after a storm.
- Dark patches on the roof where the protective granules have worn away.
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5. Gutter Overload: Ice, Snow, and the Weight of Winter
Westchester’s gutters work overtime in the winter, draining away melting snow and rain. But when they get clogged with ice, that water has nowhere to go. That’s when you start seeing sagging, cracking, or even entire sections breaking off.
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We’ve Got Your Back—No Matter What Winter Throws at YouWestchester winters are unpredictable, but one thing you can count on is that we’re here for you.
“When the storms hit, you don’t have to go it alone. We live here, too—we know what these winters can do. Whether it’s fixing a leak, clearing an ice dam, or making sure your roof and gutters are in top shape, we’re just a call away.” —George Curi
Stay safe, stay warm, and remember: a little prevention goes a long way when it comes to keeping your home protected. If you’re worried about damage after a storm, let us take a look—we’re always happy to help.