If you live in Sioux Falls, you already know how unpredictable our winters can be.
One day it’s 35° and melting. The next it’s 5° and everything is frozen solid again.
That constant temperature swing may seem normal for South Dakota — but it’s one of the biggest causes of roof damage in Sioux Falls.
Here’s what homeowners need to understand about freeze-thaw cycles and how they quietly impact your roof.
What Is a Freeze-Thaw Cycle?
A freeze-thaw cycle happens when:
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Snow or ice melts during warmer daytime temperatures
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Water seeps into small cracks and seams
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Temperatures drop overnight
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That water refreezes and expands
When water freezes, it expands by nearly 9%. That expansion puts pressure on roofing materials — over and over again throughout winter.
This repeated stress is a major cause of roof damage in Sioux Falls, especially on aging roofs.
How Freeze-Thaw Cycles Damage Roofing Systems
1. Cracked or Lifted Shingles
Water works its way beneath shingles. When it freezes, it pushes upward.
Over time this causes:
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Cracked shingles
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Lifted edges
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Broken seal strips
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Granule loss
Once shingles are compromised, spring rain can easily penetrate beneath them.
2. Ice Dams Along the Eaves
Freeze-thaw cycles are the main reason ice dams form.
Warm attic air melts snow on the upper roof. That water runs down and refreezes at the colder edges, creating a dam.
Water then backs up under shingles — a hidden but common source of roof damage in Sioux Falls homes.
Signs of ice dam damage:
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Ceiling stains
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Peeling paint
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Wet insulation
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Sagging gutters
3. Flashing Separation
Metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys expands and contracts during temperature swings.
Over time, freeze-thaw stress can:
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Loosen flashing
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Break down sealant
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Create small gaps
These small gaps often turn into slow leaks that go unnoticed for months.
4. Gutter and Downspout Stress
When melting snow refreezes inside gutters, the added weight can:
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Pull gutters away from the fascia
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Cause sagging
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Lead to improper drainage
Poor drainage accelerates overall roof damage.
Why Roof Damage in Sioux Falls Often Goes Unnoticed
One of the biggest problems with freeze-thaw damage is that it’s gradual.
There’s rarely a dramatic event. Instead:
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Small cracks grow larger
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Sealants weaken
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Moisture slowly enters
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Interior damage appears later
By the time homeowners notice a water stain on the ceiling, the damage has often been developing since winter.
Which Roofs Are Most at Risk?
You may be more vulnerable to roof damage in Sioux Falls if:
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Your roof is 10+ years old
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You had heavy snow accumulation this winter
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You noticed icicles or ice dams
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Your attic insulation or ventilation is inadequate
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You’ve never had a professional inspection
South Dakota’s climate is tough on roofing materials — especially asphalt shingles.
How to Prevent Freeze-Thaw Roof Damage
While you can’t control the weather, you can reduce risk:
✔ Schedule a professional roof inspection in early spring
✔ Ensure proper attic ventilation
✔ Improve insulation to reduce uneven melting
✔ Keep gutters clear
✔ Address small repairs immediately
Proactive maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
Spring is the ideal time.
An inspection after winter allows you to:
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Catch damage early
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Document issues before storm season
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Prevent costly interior repairs
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Extend the lifespan of your roof
The earlier you address minor issues, the more affordable they are to fix.
Protect Your Home from Roof Damage in Sioux Falls
Freeze-thaw cycles are unavoidable in South Dakota — but major roof damage doesn’t have to be.
At 360 Builders, we provide honest, detailed inspections and high-quality roofing solutions for homeowners and commercial property owners throughout the Sioux Falls area.
If you’re unsure how your roof handled this winter, now is the time to find out.
Schedule your spring roof inspection today and stay ahead of costly repairs