How Pembroke’s Heavy Snowfall Tests Your Roof—and What to Do About It

If you’ve lived in Pembroke, Ontario, for more than one winter, you know the snow here doesn’t mess around. We’re talking 40+ cm in a single storm, piling up like it’s auditioning for a Christmas movie. But while it’s pretty from the ground, all that snow is putting your roof through a serious workout. Here’s what’s happening up there—and how to keep your home safe.

Snow’s heavier than it looks. A cubic foot of wet snow can tip the scales at 20 pounds, and after a big Pembroke dump, that weight adds up fast. Older roofs—or ones not built to modern codes—might only handle 30 pounds per square foot. Do the math: a few storms in a row, and you’re flirting with trouble. Cracks in the rafters, sagging spots, or even a collapse if things get dicey.

Then there’s the ice. Our freeze-thaw cycles turn melting snow into sneaky ice dams along the edges. That trapped water can slip under shingles, dripping into your attic or walls. Last winter, I heard about a neighbor who ignored a small leak—by spring, they were replacing drywall. Not fun.

So, what’s the move? Start by grabbing a roof rake (from the ground—don’t climb up there in a blizzard) and pulling off excess snow after a storm. Check your gutters too—clogged ones make ice dams worse. And if your roof’s been around since the Mulroney years, it might be time for a pro to take a look. Many local companies offer free inspections that can spot weak points before the next snow flies.

Pembroke winters don’t pull punches, but a little prep can keep your roof standing strong. Stay ahead of the snow, and you’ll save yourself a headache—or a hefty repair bill—down the road.