Snow, Ice and Drainage Problems on Slate Roofs
Pittsburgh winters bring repeated freeze and thaw. Ice at the eaves can hold meltwater that backs up under slate. Sliding snow can also damage gutters and people below.
Signs you might notice
- Leaks that appear only during snowmelt
- Icicles or ice ridges at the eaves
- Gutters bent or pulled loose
- Snow sliding off in sheets
Common causes
- Ice dams at the eaves
- Clogged or undersized gutters
- Built-in gutter linings that have failed
- Missing or damaged snow guards
What a slate professional should check
- 1.Eaves, gutters and downspouts
- 2.Built-in gutter linings, if present
- 3.Snow guard condition and placement
Repair options
Fixes may include gutter repair, relining built-in gutters, snow guards, or eave flashing. Attic ventilation and insulation can also play a role.
Final scope depends on an in-person assessment. Nothing on this page is a diagnosis of your roof.
Questions homeowners ask
- Why does my roof only leak when snow melts?
- Ice at the edge can trap meltwater, which then backs up under slates that shed rain fine.