Winter Roof Maintenance in Quebec: Practical Guide

Quebec winters put roofs to the test. Between snow accumulation, freeze-thaw cycles and ice dams, your roof needs special attention. Here’s how to protect it.

Challenges of Quebec Winters

Snow Accumulation

Snow can weigh heavily on your structure:

• Fresh snow: 5-10 kg per cubic foot
• Wet snow: 15-25 kg per cubic foot
• Ice: up to 60 kg per cubic foot

Excessive accumulation can cause sagging or even collapse.

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when:

1. Heat from the house melts snow on the roof
2. Water flows toward colder edges
3. It freezes and forms a barrier
4. Water accumulates behind it and infiltrates

Prevention: Before Winter

Fall Inspection

Have your roof inspected before the first snow to check:

• ✅ Condition of shingles or membrane
• ✅ Sealant around vents and chimneys
• ✅ Clean and well-secured gutters
• ✅ Flashings in good condition
• ✅ Adequate attic insulation

Improve Insulation

Good insulation prevents ice dams:

• Well-insulated attic: R-50 recommended in Quebec
• Adequate ventilation: Clear soffits and ridge vents
• Intact vapor barrier: Prevents moisture from rising

Clean Gutters

Clogged gutters cause problems:

• Water doesn’t drain properly
• Faster ice formation
• Risk of damage to fascias

During Winter: When to Act

Roof Snow Removal

Consider snow removal when:

• Accumulation exceeds 60 cm (2 feet)
• After a wet snow storm
• If you notice sagging
• Presence of significant ice dams

⚠️ Important: Snow removal is dangerous. Call equipped professionals.

Safe Techniques

If you must act yourself:

• Use a snow rake from the ground
• Never climb on a snowy or icy roof
• Keep a 2-3 inch layer of snow to protect shingles
• Clear areas near gutters first

Ice Dams: What to Do

In case of ice dams:

1. Don’t break the ice with a hammer (damages shingles)
2. Heating cables: Temporary solution
3. Salt socks: Melt a drainage channel
4. Call a professional: For significant cases

Warning Signs to Watch For

Inside

• Water stains on ceiling near exterior walls
• Blistering paint
• Excessive moisture in the attic
• Icicles forming in soffits

Outside

• Very long icicles on gutters
• Unevenly melting snow
• Ice backing up under shingles
• Visible sagging

After Winter: Spring Inspection

In spring, have inspected:

• Damage caused by ice
• Lifted or missing shingles
• Detached flashings
• Damaged gutters

A quick inspection allows you to repair small problems before they worsen.

Imperiales Industries Winter Services

We offer winter-adapted services:

Roof Snow Removal

• Experienced and insured team
• Professional equipment
• Rapid intervention
• Damage prevention

Emergency Repairs

• Available even in winter
• Temporary tarping if necessary
• Leak repairs

Inspection and Prevention

• Insulation assessment
• Ventilation improvement
• Heating cable installation

Conclusion

Proactive winter roof maintenance can save you costly repairs. When in doubt, call professionals.

Need help? Contact Imperiales Industries at 438-770-2904 for an inspection or snow removal service.