Winter Roof Leaks in West Hartford Condos

Winter leaks often happen when snow melts during the day and refreezes at night. Over time, ice builds up along the roof edge and blocks water from draining properly. When that happens, melting snow has nowhere to go. So it backs up. Then it slips under shingles. Then it finds its way into ceilings, walls, and insulation. This is why water leaks show up only during snowmelt — not during rain.

Winter Roof Leaks in West Hartford Condos

The call usually starts the same way.

“There’s water dripping from the ceiling.”

“It only happens when the snow melts.”

“Our roof was fine all summer—what’s going on?”

If you manage or live in a condominium in West Hartford or nearby towns, winter roof leaks are one of the most common cold-weather problems. And no, it’s not always a bad roof.

In many cases, the real issue starts with snow, ice and trapped water along the roofline.

Why Roofs Leak in Winter (Even When Shingles Look Fine)

Winter leaks often happen when snow melts during the day and refreezes at night. Over time, ice builds up along the roof edge and blocks water from draining properly.

When that happens, melting snow has nowhere to go.

So it backs up.

Then it slips under shingles.

Then it finds its way into ceilings, walls, and insulation.

This is why water leaks show up only during snowmelt — not during rain.

Common Winter Leak Complaints We See in Condos

Condo properties are especially vulnerable because of shared rooflines and heat differences between units.

Some of the most common complaints include:

• Water dripping from ceilings after snowfall

• Stains spreading across drywall

• Icicles forming repeatedly in the same areas

• Leaks near exterior walls or windows

• Moisture appearing even though the roof was recently inspected

If these sound familiar, the issue is usually happening at the roof edge — not the middle of the roof.

Why Condominiums Are Hit Harder Than Single-Family Homes

Condos deal with a few added challenges:

• Uneven heat escaping from different units

• Long, continuous roof edges

• Limited attic access

• Snow buildup that isn’t cleared quickly

• Drainage systems that freeze easily

One problem area can affect multiple units fast.

Why Chipping Ice or “Waiting It Out” Makes Things Worse

This is where a lot of damage happens.

Trying to chip ice off the roof or waiting for warmer weather often leads to:

• Broken shingles

• Bent gutters

• Refreezing overnight

• More water trapped behind ice

Once water starts getting inside, time works against you.

How Winter Roof Leaks Are Safely Addressed

The goal isn’t to break ice — it’s to restore drainage.

Professional solutions focus on:

• Reducing snow buildup along roof edges

• Safely melting ice without damaging roofing materials

• Opening channels so water can escape

• Preventing repeat freeze-ups during the next thaw

This stops active leaks and limits interior damage.

Why Fast Action Matters for HOAs and Property Managers

When winter leaks affect condos, delays can lead to:

• Damage spreading across units

• Insurance complications

• Mold concerns

• Resident complaints escalating quickly

Early intervention protects both the building and the association.

What to Do If You’re Seeing Winter Leaks Right Now

If water is entering units during snowmelt, the problem is already active. It won’t fix itself and it usually gets worse with the next freeze.

The safest move is getting the roof evaluated before more snow arrives.

Helping Condos Handle Winter Roof Leaks in West Hartford

ALX Tree Service is currently working with condominium properties throughout West Hartford, Farmington, Simsbury, Avon and surrounding towns to help address winter roof leaks caused by snow and ice buildup.

We understand how quickly these issues spread in multi-unit buildings and why clear, fast solutions matter.

If your condo is dealing with winter leaks, icicles or water showing up after snowstorms, call us for an inspection and straightforward guidance on what needs attention now before the damage grows.