Seasonal Roof Maintenance in Anchorage, Alaska: What to Inspect Before Winter
Anchorage winters test every roof. Heavy snow, ice dams, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles can turn minor issues into major leaks. This Anchorage-focused roof maintenance checklist helps you prep before temperatures drop, so your home stays warm, dry, and efficient all winter.
General Roofing is a family-owned Anchorage roofing company (since 1973). We’ve helped homeowners from all areas of Anchorage to Eagle River and Girdwood get their roofs winter-ready. Use this guide to perform a thoughtful fall inspection, or schedule a professional roof inspection and we’ll handle it for you.
9-Step Winter Roof Checklist (Anchorage, AK)
1) Look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles
High winds and snow loads around Turnagain and Hillside can dislodge aging shingles. Action: Walk the perimeter; note curled, cracked, or missing shingles. If you see widespread damage, book repairs before first snowfall.
2) Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
Clogged gutters cause water to back up and freeze along eaves. Action: Clean debris, confirm tight hangers/slope, and verify downspouts discharge away from the foundation.
3) Inspect flashing at chimneys, skylights, and sidewalls
Freeze–thaw cycles can separate flashing and sealants. Action: Look for rust, gaps, or lifted edges, especially where roofs meet walls or chimneys. Repair/replace failing sections.
4) Check roof valleys for wear and blockages
Snow collects and lingers in valleys. Action: Remove leaves/needles; look for granular loss, cracked shingles, or loose valley metal.
5) Verify attic ventilation and insulation
Poor ventilation traps warm air, melting snow that refreezes at the eaves. Action: Make sure soffit/ridge vents are unobstructed. Assess insulation depth and even coverage to reduce heat loss and ice dams.
6) Trim overhanging branches
Heavy, wet snow can snap limbs onto shingles. Action: Cut back branches that touch or hang over the roofline; remove deadwood near the home.
7) Inspect the chimney and cap
Masonry cracks and failed caps invite moisture. Action: Check mortar joints, crown, and cap; confirm tight, watertight flashing.
8) Check for interior leaks or moisture
Hidden issues show up inside first. Action: Look for stains, damp insulation, or light infiltration in the attic. Address early to avoid winter spread.
9) Schedule a professional roof inspection (Anchorage specialists)
A trained eye spots early-stage problems common to Alaska’s coastal winds and sub-zero temps. Action: General Roofing provides detailed winter-readiness inspections and prioritized repair plans.
Bonus: Flat & Low-Slope Roofs (Anchorage)
If you have a flat roof or low-slope roof, winter prep is crucial. We service EPDM and Modified Bitumen systems designed for cold-weather flexibility and watertight seams.
- EPDM: Excellent cold-weather flexibility
- Modified Bitumen (torch-down or cold-applied): Rugged, layered waterproofing
Winterproof Your Anchorage Roof for Peace of Mind
Getting your roof ready for Alaska’s harsh winter isn’t just about stopping leaks, it’s about protecting your Anchorage home, controlling energy costs, and extending the life of your roof through months of snow, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Follow our seasonal roof maintenance checklist to catch issues early. before ice dams, heavy snow loads, or sub-zero temps turn small problems into costly repairs. If you’re unsure about anything you find, schedule a professional roof inspection to ensure your system is fully prepared for whatever winter brings.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Keep it strong, sealed, and well-maintained for a cozy, leak-free Anchorage winter. Call 907-561-1460 or request an inspection today.
