Stop ice dams and wind-driven leaks in Broadmoor 80906

Broadmoor and 80906 Roofing: Preventing Ice Dams and Wind‑Driven Leaks Near Cheyenne Mountain

Last updated: September 25th, 2025

Estimated reading time: 10–12 minutes

Key Takeaways

The core problem: Homes near Cheyenne Mountain (Broadmoor, 80906) face ice dams and wind‑driven leaks due to attic heat loss, inadequate ventilation, and complex rooflines.
Root causes: Warm attic air melts snow that refreezes at cold eaves, while strong, erratic winds push rain into small flashing gaps at walls, valleys, and chimneys.
Right fix, not a patch: Seal attic air leaks, balance ventilation, install high‑performance ice‑and‑water shield, and perform precision flashing repairs.
Broadmoor specifics: Historic slate/tile transitions and multi‑gabled roofs demand specialty materials and meticulous flashing/underlayment work.
Professional diagnostics matter: Homestead Roofing’s detailed inspections pinpoint heat loss and flashing vulnerabilities; the inspection fee is credited toward your repair project.

What You Need to Know
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Guide to Leak Prevention
Cost, Timelines & Warranties
Local Considerations for 80906 and The Broadmoor
When NOT to Do This: Common Roofing Mistakes
Insurance & Storm Damage Claims
Checklist: How to Verify Your Insurance Coverage
Why Homestead Roofing Colorado Springs?
Glossary of Roofing Terms
Get a Professional Assessment
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions

What You Need to Know

To prevent ice dams and wind‑driven leaks in the 80906 area, homeowners must address the root causes: attic heat loss and poor flashing. Sealing air leaks into the attic, improving insulation, ensuring balanced ventilation, and installing robust ice‑and‑water shield underlayment are the most effective long‑term solutions.

Key takeaway: Preventing these issues requires more than just new shingles; it requires treating the roof as a complete system of insulation, ventilation, and water‑shedding components.

Homeowner’s Pre‑Inspection Checklist:

Look for Stains (From the Ground): Use binoculars to safely inspect your roof’s eaves and siding. Dark, discolored streaks are often signs of water overflow from ice dams.
Check Your Attic in Winter: On a cold, sunny day after a snowfall, look at your roof. Are there patches where snow has melted off completely while other areas are still covered? This pattern indicates significant heat loss.
Inspect Attic Insulation: Safely look into your attic. Is the insulation level and evenly distributed? Can you see signs of moisture, such as damp spots on the wood or matted insulation?
Examine Soffit Vents: From the outside, ensure your soffit (intake) vents under the eaves are not blocked by debris, paint, or insulation. Proper airflow is critical.
Note Icicle Formation: While small icicles are normal, a heavy, thick curtain of icicles forming along the entire eave is a classic sign of an ice dam problem.
Review Flashing Visually: Look at the metal strips where your roof meets a wall, chimney, or skylight. Do they appear loose, bent, or rusted?
Gutter Check: Are your gutters clogged with leaves or granules from shingles? Clogged gutters prevent meltwater from draining and contribute to ice dams.
Document Everything: Take photos of any areas of concern. This documentation is invaluable when you speak with a roofing contractor or your insurance company.

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Guide to Leak Prevention

Fixing the complex issues common in Broadmoor and 80906 homes is a systematic process that goes beyond simple repairs. It involves diagnostics, targeted upgrades, and professional installation to create a durable, weather‑tight roofing system.

Here’s the step‑by‑step process Homestead Roofing follows:

Leak‑Tracking and Diagnostics (1–2 hours): Our process begins with a thorough inspection to find the true source of the problem. We don’t just look at the shingles; we analyze the entire system. This includes entering the attic to check for signs of air leakage, inadequate insulation, and poor ventilation. We also assess all flashing, roof transitions (like slate‑to‑asphalt), and complex valley intersections that are prone to failure.
Detailed Estimate and Scope of Work (1–3 business days): Based on our findings, we provide a detailed proposal. It will outline the specific corrective actions needed, such as:
- Air Sealing: Closing gaps around light fixtures, plumbing vents, and attic hatches to stop warm air from reaching the roof deck.
- Ventilation Upgrades: Proposing a balanced system of intake (soffit) and exhaust (ridge) vents to keep the attic cool and dry.
- Underlayment Strategy: Specifying an extended ice‑and‑water shield, often higher up the roofline than code requires, especially in shaded areas or complex valleys.
- Flashing Plan: Detailing the custom fabrication or replacement of flashing around chimneys, dormers, and walls.
- Material Options: Recommending materials suited to the Broadmoor aesthetic and Colorado’s climate, such as high‑performance architectural shingles or Brava composite tiles.
Material Sourcing and Scheduling: Once you approve the plan, we order all necessary materials. We work with you to schedule the project at a time that minimizes disruption to your household.
Installation and Repair (Duration varies: 1 day for minor repairs, 3–7+ days for major work):
- Site Preparation: We protect your landscaping, siding, and windows with tarps and plywood.
- Execution: Our trained technicians carry out the plan with precision. This isn’t just nailing shingles; it’s a technical process of integrating ventilation, underlayment, and flashing to manage water and ice effectively. For complex Broadmoor homes, this may involve carefully working around slate or tile sections.
- Who Does What: Our certified crew handles all on‑roof work. You are responsible for ensuring clear access to the property and securing pets.
Cleanup and Final Inspection: We perform a meticulous cleanup, including a magnetic sweep of the grounds to collect stray nails. A project manager will conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets our high standards and your complete satisfaction.
Warranty and Registration: We provide you with all warranty documentation for both materials and workmanship. A strong workmanship warranty is crucial, as improper installation is a leading cause of roof failure.

Cost, Timelines & Warranties

Roofing costs in Colorado Springs are influenced by material choice, roof complexity, and the extent of underlying repairs needed. For the specialized work required in the 80906 area, focusing on long‑term performance provides the best value.

A “lifetime” warranty typically refers to the period a material is expected to last on a home owned by the original purchaser; these warranties are often prorated after an initial non‑prorated period and may not be fully transferable. Always read the manufacturer’s specific terms. Workmanship warranties cover installation errors and are provided by the contractor.

Material	Wind Rating (ASTM D7158)	Impact Class (UL 2218)	Typical Material Warranty	Typical Cost Range (per sq. ft. installed)
Architectural Asphalt	Class H (150 mph)	Class 3 or 4	30‑Year to Limited Lifetime	$6 – $10
Brava Composite Tile	Class H (150+ mph)	Class 4	50‑Year Limited	$15 – $25+
Standing Seam Metal	140+ mph	Class 4	40‑Year to Limited Lifetime	$15 – $28+
Natural Slate/Tile	Varies (High)	Varies (High)	50–100+ Years	$20 – $40+

Sources: Brava Roof Tile, Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), industry cost estimators. Prices are estimates and vary based on project specifics.

Local Considerations for 80906 and The Broadmoor

Homes in El Paso County, including the 80906 ZIP code, fall under the jurisdiction of the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). This means any significant roofing work requires permits and must adhere to specific codes designed for our high‑wind and snow‑prone climate.

The PPRBD follows the International Residential Code (IRC), with local amendments. Key requirements for our area include:

Wind Speed Design: Colorado Springs is in a high‑wind region, requiring shingles and fastening methods rated for sustained wind speeds. The specific requirement can vary by exact location and elevation.
Ice Barrier Underlayment: The code mandates a self‑adhering, polymer‑modified bitumen sheet (ice‑and‑water shield) at the eaves. For the conditions near Cheyenne Mountain, we often recommend extending this barrier further up the roof deck than the minimum code requirement.
Permits and Inspections: A permit is required for most roof replacements. The PPRBD will typically perform inspections during and after the project to ensure compliance with safety and installation standards. You can verify a contractor’s license and pull permit records on the PPRBD website.

The Broadmoor neighborhood presents unique challenges due to its historic architecture, steep roof pitches, and complex designs featuring dormers, valleys, and transitions between materials like slate, copper, and asphalt. These features require a high level of craftsmanship to flash and seal correctly against wind‑driven rain and ice.

When NOT to Do This: Common Roofing Mistakes

Do not attempt DIY repairs on steep or high roofs. The risk of a fall is significant and not worth the potential savings. This is especially true for the multi‑story, steep‑pitched roofs common in The Broadmoor.
Do not use a pressure washer to clear moss or debris. High pressure can strip away the protective granules on asphalt shingles, drastically shortening the roof’s lifespan.
Do not install new shingles over old ones. While sometimes permissible by code for a single layer, this practice can hide underlying deck rot and adds weight the structure may not be designed for. It also prevents the proper installation of a new ice‑and‑water shield.
Do not hire a contractor who suggests covering up a problem. A roofer who wants to use caulk or roof cement as a primary, long‑term fix for a flashing issue is providing a temporary patch, not a solution.
Do not ignore ventilation. Simply replacing shingles without addressing attic heat and moisture will lead to the same ice dam problems recurring, while also potentially voiding your shingle manufacturer’s warranty.
Do not use rock salt or chemical de‑icers on your roof. These can damage shingles, corrode metal flashing and gutters, and harm landscaping below.

Insurance & Storm Damage Claims

Navigating an insurance claim can be complex, but a systematic approach makes it manageable. If you suspect damage from a storm, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process.

Document the Damage: Before any repairs are made, take clear photos and videos of the damaged areas from a safe vantage point. Note the date of the storm.
Verify Your Coverage: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand your deductible, what is covered (e.g., wind vs. hail), and whether you have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage.
File the Claim: Contact your insurance company’s claims department to formally open a claim. They will provide you with a claim number and assign an adjuster.
Meet the Adjuster: Schedule a time for the insurance adjuster to inspect the damage. It is highly recommended to have your chosen roofing contractor present during this inspection to ensure all damages are identified and properly assessed.
Review the Scope of Work: The adjuster will create a report detailing the covered damages and the estimated cost of repair. Review this document carefully with your contractor to identify any missing items or discrepancies.
Handle Supplements: If your contractor finds additional, necessary repairs not included in the initial scope (e.g., rotted decking discovered after shingle removal), they will submit a “supplement” to the insurance company for approval.
Complete Repairs: Once the scope is agreed upon and the first insurance check is received, your contractor can begin the work.
Claim Depreciation Release: With an RCV policy, the initial insurance payment is for the Actual Cash Value. The remaining amount (depreciation) is released after your contractor provides a final invoice proving the work has been completed for the agreed‑upon price.

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and is not legal or insurance advice. Always verify coverage details and procedures directly with your insurance carrier.

Checklist: How to Verify Your Insurance Coverage

[ ] What is my policy number and claims hotline?
[ ] What is my deductible for hail and wind damage?
[ ] Do I have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage?
[ ] Is my policy “all‑peril,” or does it exclude specific events like wind?
[ ] Are there coverage limits for roof replacement?
[ ] Does my policy cover code upgrades required by the PPRBD?
[ ] What is the deadline for filing a claim after a storm event?

Why Homestead Roofing Colorado Springs?

At Homestead Roofing, we understand that solving the persistent leak and ice dam issues in Broadmoor and 80906 requires a deeper expertise than the average roofer possesses. We treat your roof as an integrated system, diagnosing the underlying causes of failure in your attic and on your roof deck before we ever recommend a solution.

Our approach is built on trust and technical excellence:

Advanced Diagnostics: We specialize in forensic leak tracking. Our repair inspections are designed to find the exact points of failure, and the inspection fee is fully credited to your project cost when you hire us.
System‑Based Solutions: We don’t just replace shingles; we engineer solutions. This includes optimizing your attic’s ventilation, air sealing, and installing superior underlayments to permanently solve ice damming and water intrusion.
Material Expertise: We are proud to work with premium materials designed for Colorado’s harsh climate, including Brava composite tiles, which offer the beauty of natural slate or cedar with Class 4 impact resistance.
Craftsmanship Guarantee: Our crews are trained in the precise installation techniques required for complex rooflines and specialty materials, backed by a robust workmanship warranty you can count on.
Local and Licensed: We are fully licensed with the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department and carry comprehensive insurance to protect you and your property.
Meticulous Cleanup: We respect your home and property, ensuring a thorough cleanup at the end of every project.

Explore our roof repair services or see our guide to roof replacement to learn more about our process.

Glossary of Roofing Terms

Class 4 Impact Rating: The highest rating for roofing materials under the UL 2218 standard, indicating resistance to damage from a 2‑inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet.
Flashing: Pieces of metal or other impervious material installed to prevent the passage of water into a structure from a joint or as part of a weather‑resistant barrier system.
Ice & Water Shield: A self‑adhering, waterproof underlayment applied to the roof deck, especially at eaves, valleys, and penetrations, to protect against leaks from ice dams and wind‑driven rain.
O&P (Overhead and Profit): A line item sometimes included in insurance claims estimates to cover a general contractor’s administrative costs and profit margin, typically when a project requires coordinating multiple trades (e.g., roofing, gutters, painting).
Ridge Vent: An exhaust vent installed along the peak (ridge) of a roof, allowing warm, moist air to escape from the attic.
Soffit Vent: An intake vent located in the soffit (the underside of the roof eaves), which allows cool, fresh air to enter the attic.
Underlayment: A layer of water‑resistant material placed between the roof deck (the wood sheathing) and the shingles to provide a secondary layer of protection from moisture.
Valley: The internal angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes, where water concentrates.

Get a Professional Assessment

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the unique weather challenges of the Cheyenne Mountain area. Don’t wait for a small leak to become a major problem. Schedule a comprehensive diagnostic inspection with the experts at Homestead Roofing Colorado Springs.

If you only do 3 things…

Check Your Attic: Look for signs of moisture and ensure insulation isn’t blocking your soffit vents.
Clean Your Gutters: Ensure meltwater has a clear path to drain away from your foundation.
Schedule a Professional Inspection: Get an expert opinion on the health of your flashing and ventilation systems before winter arrives.

Claim your professional leak‑tracking inspection today and let us help you protect your investment.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if I have an ice dam?

The most obvious signs of an ice dam are a thick ridge of ice along your roof’s edge and large icicles forming from that ridge. You may also notice water stains on your interior ceilings or exterior walls below the roofline, or water dripping from behind your gutters.

Is it better to repair my roof or replace it entirely?

The decision depends on the roof’s age, the extent of the damage, and the nature of the problem. If you have a widespread issue like systemic ice dams or extensive storm damage across an aging roof, replacement is often the most cost‑effective long‑term solution. For isolated flashing failures or a small area of damage, a professional repair is usually sufficient.

Is a Class 4 impact‑resistant shingle worth the extra cost in Colorado Springs?

For most homeowners in Colorado Springs, a Class 4 shingle is a wise investment. Our area is prone to severe hailstorms, and a UL 2218 Class 4 rating signifies the highest level of resistance. Many insurance carriers offer significant discounts on premiums for homes with Class 4 roofs, which can help offset the higher initial cost over time.

How do you fix a leak around a chimney?

Fixing a chimney leak requires removing the surrounding shingles and old flashing. A new, multi‑layered flashing system is then installed, typically using step flashing along the sides, a back‑pan flashing uphill, and front apron flashing downhill, all integrated with an ice‑and‑water shield for a permanent seal.

How long does a roof replacement take?

An average‑sized roof replacement on a moderately pitched home can typically be completed in 2 to 4 days. However, for larger, more complex homes like those in The Broadmoor, or if significant decking repairs are needed, the process could take a week or more. Weather is also a major factor in the timeline.

What is balanced attic ventilation?

Balanced ventilation means having an equal amount of air intake (usually at the soffits or eaves) and air exhaust (at or near the roof’s ridge). This balance creates a continuous flow of cool, dry air through the attic, which helps prevent heat buildup that melts snow and contributes to ice dams.