If you’ve lived in the Dallas–Fort Worth area for any length of time, you know our winters are anything but predictable.

One week it’s 70°F and sunny.
The next, we’re dealing with ice storms and freezing temperatures.

For homeowners in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, and across North Texas, this weather volatility creates unique challenges for your roof.

Remember Winter Storm Uri in February 2021?
That historic freeze caused billions of dollars in property damage across Texas, and many homeowners discovered too late that their roofs weren’t prepared.

The good news: Most winter roof damage is preventable with proper preparation and maintenance.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• The specific threats Texas winters pose to roofs

• A practical winter roof checklist

• When to DIY vs. when to call a professional

• Repair costs, insurance insights, and contractor red flags

Why DFW Winters Are Harder on Roofs Than You Think

Many North Texas homeowners assume that because we don’t get heavy snow, winter roof maintenance isn’t a priority.

This is one of the most expensive misconceptions in DFW homeownership.

1. Freeze–Thaw Cycles Cause Expansion Damage

In northern states, water freezes and stays frozen. In DFW, temperatures frequently swing above and below freezing during winter.

Each cycle allows water to:

• Seep into small cracks

• Freeze and expand by up to 9%

• Thaw and widen those cracks

After just one winter, a hairline crack can turn into a serious leak. This is especially common in older homes in Plano and McKinney.

2. Attic Condensation Creates Hidden Damage

When warm indoor air rises into a poorly ventilated attic and meets the cold underside of the roof deck, condensation forms.

Over time, this leads to:

• Mold and mildew growth

• Wood rot in decking and rafters

• Reduced insulation effectiveness

• Premature shingle failure from underneath

The most dangerous part is that this damage happens out of sight. By the time ceiling stains appear, structural damage may already exist.

3. Winter Wind Storms Target Vulnerable Areas

DFW often experiences its strongest winds during winter cold fronts, with gusts exceeding 40–50 mph.

These winds can:

• Lift or tear loose aging shingles

• Damage flashing around chimneys and vents

• Create entry points for water infiltration

• Blow debris that punctures roofing materials

4. Cold Temperatures Make Shingles Brittle

Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material in Frisco, Allen, and Collin County, lose flexibility in cold weather.

This makes them more likely to crack, especially if they’re already aging or have hail damage from previous storm seasons.

5 Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Attention Before Winter

Don’t wait for a leak to discover problems. Watch for these warning signs:

• Granules collecting in gutters, indicating shingle wear

• Curling or buckling shingles visible from the ground

• Dark streaks or stains from moisture retention

• Rising heating bills due to insulation or ventilation issues

• Daylight visible through attic roof boards

DFW Winter Roof Readiness Checklist

Use this checklist before the next cold front arrives:

• Clean gutters and downspouts

• Trim tree branches near or over the roof

• Inspect the attic for moisture or condensation

• Ensure attic ventilation is clear and functioning

• Look for visible shingle damage from ground level

• Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights

• Confirm attic insulation is dry and adequate

• Schedule a professional roof inspection

When to DIY vs. When to Call a Professional

Safe for DIY

• Cleaning gutters on single-story homes using proper ladder safety

• Visual inspection from ground level

• Checking the attic for obvious moisture or light penetration

Call a Professional If:

• Walking on the roof is required, especially in cold weather

• Flashing repairs are needed

• Structural damage is suspected

• You have a multi-story home

• Your roof is over 15 years old

Pro tip: Emergency roof repairs often cost two to three times more than preventive maintenance. A $299 inspection today can prevent a $3,000+ emergency repair later.

How Much Does Roof Repair Cost in DFW?

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Winter Roof Damage in Texas?

Short answer: It depends on the cause and your policy.

Typically covered

• Sudden storm damage

• Wind, hail, ice, or falling debris

Typically not covered

• Wear and tear

• Poor maintenance

• Pre-existing damage

Important December reminder: Many insurance deductibles reset on January 1. If you suspect storm damage and have already met your deductible, schedule an inspection before year-end.

5 Red Flags When Choosing a DFW Roofing Contractor

Winter storms often attract scammers. Watch for these warning signs:

• Door-to-door solicitation immediately after storms

• Pressure to sign contracts on the spot

• No local address or verifiable references

• Unusually low bids

• No proof of insurance or licensing

Look for contractors with manufacturer certifications such as GAF Master Elite or Owens Corning Platinum Preferred, which require ongoing training and quality standards.

Protect Your DFW Home This Winter

Don’t wait for the next freeze to find out your roof has problems.

Whether you’re in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, or anywhere in the DFW metro, Roof Raiders offers free roof inspections to help you understand your roof’s condition and your options.

Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection
Phone: (214) 326-3106

Serving Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen & the DFW Metro

About Roof Raiders
Roof Raiders is a family-owned roofing company serving homeowners across the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. We specialize in residential roof repair, replacement, and maintenance, with a commitment to honest assessments and quality workmanship.