Living in Sioux Falls means winter isn’t just a season — it’s an event.

Between sub-zero temps, heavy snow, strong winds, and ice storms, your roof works overtime to protect your home. But all that harsh weather can take a toll. Understanding how winter affects your roof can help you catch problems early — before they turn into an expensive roof repair.

At 360 Builders, we help homeowners protect their homes year-round. Here’s what to watch for during our South Dakota winters 👇

1. Snow Load: When Is Snow on the Roof a Problem?

A little snow on your roof is perfectly normal — and even expected. But too much snow can add significant weight, especially when it becomes packed or turns to ice.

Heavy snow can lead to:

• Roof sagging

• Cracking or warping of structural supports

• Leaks as snow melts and refreezes

• Gutter strain and damage

Wet snow is especially heavy, and we see quite a bit of that during warm-up periods in Sioux Falls.

Warning signs of snow load stress:

✔ bowing ceilings
✔ interior cracks appearing suddenly
✔ doors sticking
✔ visible roof sagging

If you notice any of these, avoid climbing on the roof yourself — it can be dangerous and may cause more damage. Call a professional for safe snow removal and inspection.

2. Ice Dams: One of the Most Common Winter Roofing Problems

Ice dams are a huge issue in Sioux Falls.

They form when:

1. Warm air from inside your home escapes into the attic

2. Snow on the roof melts

3. Melted water runs down the roof

4. It refreezes at the colder roof edge — forming a ridge of ice

That ice ridge traps water behind it — and water + shingles = leaks.

Signs you may have an ice dam:

• Icicles forming along the roof edge

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Paint bubbling near the ceiling

• Ice buildup in gutters

Ice dams are typically caused by poor insulation or ventilation.

Fixing those issues not only protects your roof — it makes your home warmer and more energy efficient.

3. Winter Wind Damage — Not Just a Summer Storm Problem

High winds don’t just happen during summer storms in Sioux Falls. Winter winds can easily exceed 40–50 mph, especially in open areas.

Wind can:

• Lift or loosen shingles

• Break brittle or aging shingles

• Pull back flashing

• Damage gutters and drip edges

Once shingles are loose, water can sneak underneath and cause leaks — even if you can’t see obvious damage.

After a wind event, check for:

✔ shingles missing or curling
✔ debris on the roof
✔ granules collecting in gutters
✔ flapping or lifted shingles

If you’re unsure, schedule a roof inspection — especially if your roof is over 10 years old.

4. Freeze–Thaw Cycles: A Slow, Silent Roof Killer

One thing Sioux Falls has plenty of?

Days where snow melts a little…then freezes again overnight.

This process puts stress on your roof as water seeps into tiny cracks and expands when it freezes.

Over time, this can cause:

• Shingle cracking

• Sealants failing

• Leaks around vents and chimneys

• Flashing separation

If you notice small drips, damp insulation, or ceiling spots, address it quickly — moisture problems rarely stay small.

5. Condensation & Attic Moisture in Winter

When warm indoor air meets the cold surface of your roof deck, condensation can form inside your attic.

This is often caused by:

• Poor attic ventilation

• Bathroom or kitchen fans venting into the attic

• Insufficient insulation

Left untreated, condensation can lead to:
⚠ mold
⚠ wood rot
⚠ insulation damage
⚠ musty odors

A quick attic inspection in winter can reveal a lot about your roof’s health.

6. Winter Effects on Siding (Bonus for Home Protection)

It’s not just your roof that battles winter — your siding does too.

Cold temps and strong winds can cause:

• Cracking or brittle damage to vinyl siding

• Gaps forming between panels

• Warping due to moisture intrusion

• Paint failure on wood siding

And once moisture gets behind siding? Structural problems can follow.

When Should Sioux Falls Homeowners Call For a Roof Repair?

Reach out for an inspection if you notice any of the following:

✔ Persistent ice dams
✔ Leaks or water stains
✔ Missing, curling, or cracked shingles
✔ Unexplained spikes in heating bills
✔ Drafts or cold spots around ceilings
✔ Gutter separation or sagging

A winter roof inspection is quick, safe, and can often catch problems before they require major repairs or insurance claims.

FAQ: Common Winter Roofing Questions in Sioux Falls

Can you repair or replace a roof in winter?

Yes — with the right materials and installation techniques. Many repairs shouldn’t wait for spring.

Should I remove snow from my roof myself?

We don’t recommend it. Roofs are slippery in winter — and the wrong tools can damage shingles. Call a professional if snow seems excessive.

Are icicles always bad?

Not always — but lots of large, repeating icicles usually indicate heat loss or poor roof ventilation.

 How to Protect Your Roof This Winter

Here are a few homeowner-friendly steps:

• Keep gutters clear before winter

• Schedule a roof & attic inspection annually

• Make sure attic insulation & ventilation are adequate

• Address minor issues early

These small steps can add years of life to your roof.

Need a Winter Roof Inspection in Sioux Falls?

If you’re worried about your roof — or just want peace of mind — 360 Builders is here to help.

✔ Free estimates
✔ Honest assessments
✔ Residential & commercial roofing
✔ Siding & storm repair specialists

Schedule your winter roof inspection today and keep your home protected — no matter what South Dakota weather brings.