4 Ways to Protect Your Chimney & Skylights This Winter

As winter settles in across New England, most homeowners turn their attention to clearing walkways, sealing windows, and preparing heating systems for the colder months ahead. But it’s also important to think about how winter weather affects your roof, especially chimneys and skylights, which endure some of the harshest conditions of the season.

At Eyles Contracting Inc., we often see winter roof damage, especially around chimneys and skylights, that could have been avoided with just a few preventative steps. Here’s what homeowners should be aware of in order to keep these vulnerable areas protected when snow, ice, and freezing temperatures hit.

Chimneys take the full force of winter on all sides, making them especially vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles. Moisture can get trapped in small masonry cracks, and when temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, causing cracks to widen, bricks to loosen, and mortar to deteriorate. Over time, this can lead to structural weakening and potential water intrusion, which are issues that tend to escalate quickly during winter.

How to limit freezing-related chimney damage:

• Look for cracks or missing mortar
• Confirm the chimney cap is secure and in good shape
• Check that the flashing around the base is sealed tightly

If you notice damage to your chimney or need help assessing the chimney cap and flashing, contact your trusted roofing contractor to ensure everything is good to go for winter.

Flashing is the metal that seals the connection between the chimney and the roof, and it can experience significant wear during the winter months. Snow and ice can build up around the chimney, metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, ice dams can push water beneath shingles, and older flashing can corrode or pull away. These issues often start subtly but can quickly allow water to enter the attic or interior walls if left unaddressed.



Warning signs of chimney flashing problems:

• Water stains on the ceilings near the chimney
• Dripping or musty smells after snow melts
• Visible lifting or rusting of flashing
• Ice buildup around the chimney in cold weather

Replacing damaged flashing is a straightforward fix that can prevent far more extensive interior water damage, and it’s a job best done by a professional to ensure a proper seal.

Skylights add natural light and warmth to your home, but they’re more vulnerable to winter weather than standard windows. Freeze–thaw cycles can stress their seals, heavy snow can put pressure on the frame, ice dams can often form along the downhill side, and snow sliding from higher sections of the roof can strike the skylight directly. Even a well-installed skylight can develop leaks when these winter conditions are severe enough.

How to prevent skylight leaks:

• Have a professional safely clear snow from the area around the skylight
• Ensure the skylight’s flashing is in good shape
• Check the inside for condensation or water staining
• Make sure the roof’s ventilation is adequate

If you notice moisture around your skylight, even small droplets, get it inspected before the problem spreads. A qualified contractor can determine whether you need repairs, resealing, or a full skylight installation.

Snow and ice may seem harmless at first, but buildup on a roof can create serious risks for skylights, chimneys, and roofing materials. Heavy snow loads, forming ice dams, and improper use of snow rakes can cause more damage than they prevent, especially around delicate areas like skylights and flashing.

When to seek professional snow or ice removal:

• Ice dams forming near eaves, chimneys, or skylights
• Snow piling above skylights or in roof valleys
• Leaks appearing after a thaw
• Shingles lifting or cracking under heavy snow loads
• Difficulty safely accessing icy or steep roof section

In these situations, professional snow and ice dam removal is the safest and most effective option. Eyles Contracting Inc. can remove buildup without damaging your roofing system and can also handle any necessary roof repairs, chimney repairs, or skylight replacements caused by winter weather.

Protect Your Home This Winter with Eyles Contracting Inc.