This week, February 22-23, 2026, Martha's Vineyard and much of New England were hit by an historic blizzard, dubbed Winter Storm Hernando by the Weather Channel. On the Island, the powerful nor'easter's winds of up to 71 mph and over 20 inches of snow led to power outages for over 10,000 residents and businesses. The governor issued a state of emergency and implemented a travel ban, the Steamship Authority cancelled ferry service, and numerous local businesses shut down due to the storm. So yeah, it was bad.
While we're digging out, public infrastructure is a central focus. Clearing roads, removing felled trees, fixing power lines, restoring electricity, reopening schools. But let's not forget that your residence and business properties need swift attention, too. Your roof, in particular: the structure that protects your family, your livelihood, and your valuables. Here's what you should look for and how to do so safely.
What to Do (and Not Do) to Identify Roof Damage
What you can do safely
- First and foremost, ensure your own safety. Stay clear of power lines and weakened structures
- Check from the ground — DO NOT climb on the roof
- Clear snow from lower areas, like decks and walkways
- Inspect indoors for water intrusion (see below)
- Document any damage with photos
- Call a licensed, insured roofing contractor to assess damages
- File insurance claims promptly
What NOT to do
- Never climb on a snow-covered or icy roof!
- Don't use sharp tools near shingles
- Don't ignore warning signs hoping they'll go away
- Don't wait until spring if you see active damage
Roof Damage Warning Signs to Look For Inside
Inspect the inside of your attic and the topmost level of your property for these signs of water intrusion:
- Visible sagging or bowing in ceilings
- New cracks in drywall or plaster (especially near the roof line)
- Doors and windows suddenly sticking
- Unusual creaking or popping sounds
- New water stains on ceilings or walls
- Peeling or extruding paint or wallpaper
- If you can see daylight through the roof, you have damage
Roof Storm Damage to Look For on the Outside
Depending on how much snow is currently on your roof, you may be able to spot these signs of damage:
- Ice dams forming at gutters
- Detached or sagging gutters (potentially caused by high winds)
- Sagging or bowing areas of the roof
- Damaged or missing shingles. If your roof is clear of snow and you can safely see the shingles without climbing onto the roof, look for curls, bends and cracks.
- Heavy limbs or other debris on the roof
- Cracked, dented or missing panels in the soffits
Take Immediate Action
Don't ignore potential damage! If you see any of these signs, it's time to call a licensed professional. They have the right tools and experience to safely inspect your roof and identify any necessary repairs, the ones that are urgent as well as the ones that can wait for spring maintenance. And they can help you navigate the insurance claim process. Even if you're not sure about the health of your roof and just want a professional's opinion, getting a roof inspection NOW can set your mind at ease.
Call Associate Roofing at 781-653-6838 for a free storm damage assessment.
Associate Roofing, Inc. of New England has been serving the roofing needs of commercial clients and residential homes since 1932 and has been repairing and replacing roofs on Martha's Vineyard for over 50 years. Associate Roofing isn't just another roofing company—we're part of the Vineyard. Led by third-generation roofer and island resident Mike Lynch, we've built a reputation for unmatched craftsmanship, reliability, and service across Martha's Vineyard. Associate Roofing is a Champion Sponsor of the Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, and is a MA Licensed and Insured Roofer and General Contractor. The company holds memberships in Northeast Roofing Contractors Association as well as the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Better Business Bureau. We take our work and our reputation seriously so you can count on our quality.
Associate Roofing offers emergency roof assessments and repairs, safe snow removal, ice dam mitigation, storm damage repair and insurance documentation. We take care of all your roofing needs.
What's Next? Preparing for the Rest of Winter
We made it through this epic storm, but you know darn well winter's not done with us. There will be more snow, ice, rain and wind. Nature will continue to pelt your property, so stay vigilant! Make sure your attic is well ventilated, rake snow off your roof (or hire us to do it), trim overhanging limbs (or hire us to do it), keep gutters and downspouts clear (or – you guessed it – hire us to do it), and keep our phone number 781-653-6838 handy in case of emergency.
Remember, your roof protects what you hold most dear — your family, your livelihood, and your important possessions. Treat it kindly so it continues to serve you well.
Contact
Associate Roofing
781-653-6838
sales@associateroofing.com
Serving Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod and the Islands, South Shore and surrounding areas
