Snow or Moisture in Your Attic After a Winter Storm?

Following the recent winter storm, several homeowners across coastal North Carolina have contacted Fortitude Roofing after discovering snow or moisture inside their attics. This can be unsettling and often leads to immediate concerns about roof leaks or potential mold growth.

In most cases, however, this situation is weather-driven, not a failure of the roofing system. Below is a clear explanation of why this happens, what it means, and what options homeowners have.

Why Is There Snow or Moisture in My Attic?

The most common cause of attic snow accumulation is wind-driven snow entering through the ridge vent at the peak of the roof.

Ridge vents are a critical part of a properly designed roofing system. They allow hot, moist air to escape from the attic, helping regulate temperature, reduce condensation, and protect the roof structure over time.

Some homes are equipped with unfiltered ridge vents. During specific storm conditions—particularly high winds combined with blowing or drifting snow—fine snow particles can be pushed through these vents and into the attic space.

What Happens After the Snow Gets Inside?

Once snow enters the attic, it may:

• Settle on insulation or roof framing
• Accumulate temporarily
• Melt as temperatures rise

When that snow melts, it can create the appearance of moisture intrusion. While this can look like a roof leak, it is often not caused by damaged shingles, flashing, or roof decking.

In most cases, it is a temporary condition tied to extreme weather, not an ongoing roofing failure.

Does This Mean There Is a Mold Risk?

Not necessarily.

Short-term moisture from melting snow does not automatically result in mold, especially when:

• The attic is properly ventilated
• Moisture dries out quickly
• There is no repeated source of intrusion

That said, recurring moisture or prolonged damp conditions should be evaluated to prevent long-term issues.

Can This Be Prevented?

No ventilation system can completely eliminate the risk of attic snow intrusion during extreme weather. Ridge vents cannot and should not be sealed, as doing so would create more serious long-term problems, including trapped moisture, condensation, and reduced roof lifespan.

Filtered Ridge Vents as an Upgrade Option

One practical solution is upgrading to a filtered ridge vent. These systems are designed to:

• Significantly reduce snow infiltration
• Block dust and debris
• Maintain proper attic airflow

Filtered ridge vents are commonly recommended for coastal and high-wind environments like eastern North Carolina. While they reduce risk, no venting system can provide a 100% guarantee during severe storms.

When Should a Professional Inspect the Attic?

You should schedule an attic or roof evaluation if:

• Moisture persists after temperatures stabilize
• Insulation appears saturated
• You notice stains, odors, or visible damage
• You want confirmation that your roof and ventilation system are performing as designed

A professional inspection can determine whether what you’re seeing is weather-related or if repairs or upgrades are warranted.

Frequently Asked Questions About Snow and Moisture in the Attic

Is snow in the attic a sign of a roof leak?

In most cases, no. Snow in the attic after a winter storm is typically caused by wind-driven snow entering through the ridge vent, not by roof leaks. An inspection can confirm the cause.

Can ridge vents allow snow into the attic?

Yes. During high-wind snow events, fine snow particles can enter through unfiltered ridge vents. Ridge vents are designed for ventilation, not to be airtight.

Should ridge vents be sealed to prevent snow intrusion?

No. Sealing ridge vents can cause trapped moisture, condensation, mold, and premature roof failure. Proper ventilation is essential for long-term roof health.

What is a filtered ridge vent?

A filtered ridge vent is an upgraded ventilation system that helps reduce snow, dust, and debris from entering the attic while maintaining proper airflow.

Will melting attic snow cause mold?

Short-term moisture does not automatically cause mold if the attic dries quickly and ventilation is functioning properly. Persistent moisture should be evaluated.

How do I know if the moisture is temporary or a problem?

If moisture disappears after temperatures normalize, it is often weather-related. You should call a professional if moisture persists, insulation stays wet, or issues repeat after multiple storms.

Do filtered ridge vents completely eliminate snow intrusion?

No. Filtered ridge vents significantly reduce risk but cannot fully eliminate intrusion during extreme weather conditions.

Is attic snow common in coastal North Carolina?

Yes. Homes in coastal North Carolina are more susceptible due to wind exposure and storm-driven precipitation. Proper roof and ventilation design is especially important in this region.

Does Fortitude Roofing inspect attics?

Yes. Fortitude Roofing provides attic evaluations, roof inspections, and ventilation upgrade consultations across coastal North Carolina.

Schedule an Attic or Roof Evaluation

Fortitude Roofing serves homeowners throughout:

• New Bern
• Morehead City
• Beaufort
• Swansboro
• Jacksonville
• Emerald Isle
• Wilmington
• Surrounding coastal communities

If you’d like us to evaluate your attic or discuss ridge vent upgrades or repair options, contact our office at (252) 404-8500 to schedule an appointment.

Fortitude Roofing
Professional roofing systems built for coastal conditions.