What Every Homeowner in Erie County Should Know
Buffalo, NY, is known for many things—its passionate sports fans, historic charm, and of course, its intense weather. With long winters, heavy snow, windstorms, ice, and unpredictable temperature swings, Buffalo’s climate isn’t just tough on people—it’s especially brutal on roofs.
If you’re a homeowner in Buffalo, Erie County, or Western NY, understanding how local weather affects your roof can help you plan smarter maintenance, choose the right materials, and ultimately protect your home’s value for years to come.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key ways Buffalo’s weather impacts roof longevity, and what you can do to extend your roof’s lifespan.
1. Heavy Snowfall and Ice Buildup
Buffalo averages over 90 inches of snowfall each year—much higher than the national average. While snow might look beautiful, it adds weight and moisture to your roof that can cause serious damage over time.
How It Affects Your Roof:
- Ice dams form when snow melts and refreezes, trapping water under shingles and causing leaks.
- Excess snow adds weight, especially on flat or low-slope roofs, stressing the structure.
- Repeated freezing and thawing can lead to cracks in shingles or flashing.
Tip:
If you live in areas like Amherst, Cheektowaga, or Tonawanda, consider a metal roof or install a proper ventilation and insulation system to reduce ice dam formation.
2. Lake-Effect Storms and High Winds
Buffalo’s unique geography along Lake Erie brings frequent lake-effect storms with high wind gusts and blowing snow.
Roof Problems Caused by Wind:
- Shingles can lift or tear off, exposing the roof deck.
- Loose flashing can allow water intrusion.
- Wind-driven rain can penetrate small openings in the roofing system.
Buffalo, NY, is known for many things—its passionate sports fans, historic charm, and of course, its intense weather. With long winters, heavy snow, windstorms, ice, and unpredictable temperature swings, Buffalo’s climate isn’t just tough on people—it’s especially brutal on roofs.
Tip:
Install shingles rated for 120+ mph winds and ensure flashing is properly secured. For added protection, standing seam metal roofing offers superior wind resistance.
3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Buffalo doesn’t just get cold—it gets cold, then warm, then cold again, sometimes all in a 24-hour span. This cycle wreaks havoc on roofing materials.
Why It Matters:
- Trapped water expands when frozen, causing cracks in shingles, tiles, or sealants.
- These tiny cracks widen over time, leading to early deterioration.
Tip:
Schedule routine roof inspections in early spring and fall to catch damage caused by freeze-thaw conditions before it turns into a leak.
Buffalo, NY, is known for many things—its passionate sports fans, historic charm, and of course, its intense weather. With long winters, heavy snow, windstorms, ice, and unpredictable temperature swings, Buffalo’s climate isn’t just tough on people—it’s especially brutal on roofs.
4. UV Rays & Summer Heat
While we focus a lot on snow and ice in Buffalo, summers can bring their own roof-related issues. Long daylight hours and occasional heat waves expose your roof to UV rays and thermal expansion.
Effects of UV Exposure:
- Asphalt shingles can dry out and curl.
- Roofing membranes can lose flexibility and crack.
- Paint on metal roofs can fade or blister.
Tip:
Choose UV-reflective roofing materials, and make sure your attic is properly ventilated to prevent excess heat buildup.
5. Rain & Moisture Intrusion
Buffalo gets its fair share of rain throughout the year. Persistent rain, especially after snowmelt, increases the risk of moisture intrusion, particularly in older roofing systems.
What to Watch Out For:
- Mold or mildew in the attic
- Sagging or rotting decking
- Stains on ceilings or walls
Tip:
Invest in annual roof inspections and address minor leaks quickly to prevent costly structural repairs.
So… How Long Will a Roof Last in Buffalo?
Here’s a general idea of roof lifespans under Buffalo’s conditions:
- Asphalt shingles: 12–18 years (vs. 20–25 in milder climates)
- Metal roofs: 40–70 years with minimal maintenance
- Flat roofs: 10–15 years, depending on materials and care
- Slate/tile roofs: Up to 50+ years, but require expert installation
Dalex Roofing recommends choosing materials suited to the local climate and having your roof checked at least once a year, especially after severe storms.
Buffalo, NY, is known for many things—its passionate sports fans, historic charm, and of course, its intense weather. With long winters, heavy snow, windstorms, ice, and unpredictable temperature swings, Buffalo’s climate isn’t just tough on people—it’s especially brutal on roofs.
