How freeze-thaw works
Water gets into small cracks. At night it freezes and expands, pushing the crack open a little more. During the day it melts and runs deeper. Over a winter, a hairline crack can become a leak.
Trouble spots
- North-facing parapets, where snow drifts and stays in shade
- Canales that freeze shut, so meltwater backs up
- Roof-to-wall corners, where water collects
- Low spots, where slush sits for days
- Chimneys and flues, where heat melts snow unevenly
Before winter
- Clean canales and scuppers
- Seal parapet caps and corners
- Fix low spots or coat them with silicone
- Recoat thin areas while it's still warm enough
During and after
Don't chip ice off the roof — it damages the coating. If a canale is frozen and water is backing up, call for help. After winter, look for new stains inside and have the roof checked.
Shoveling
Most Placitas snowfalls melt on their own. If you do clear snow from a flat roof, use a plastic shovel, leave a thin layer and stay away from edges and openings.
Leak after snow? Call (505) 588-5928.
Common questions
Can you fix a winter leak right away?
Often a temporary or spot repair can be done on a dry day, with a full recoat later in warm weather.
Should I add heat cable to canales?
In some spots it helps. Ask an electrician about safe installation.