DIY guideRoof and gutters

Check the eaves for ice dams

From the ground, look for a ridge of ice and big icicles along the roof's edge, and check the ceilings under it for water coming in.

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From the ground, look along the roof's edge for a ridge of ice with snow piled behind it.
Stay on the ground, and keep out from under big icicles.
Big icicles hanging from the gutters mean melt water is freezing again at the edge.
Snow melting in patches higher up while the edge stays icy means heat from the house is warming the roof.
Inside, look at the ceilings and the tops of outside walls under that edge for stains, damp or peeling paint.
If you have a roof rake, pull the first stretch of snow above the edge down from the ground, so less can melt and freeze again.
Keep the downspouts' ends clear of ice and snow, so melt water can get away.
Water coming in, or a thick ridge of ice: don't chip at it or climb up. Ask Handyman for a roofer.

Handyman says: Water coming in? I'll find a roofer.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.