Michigan winters aren’t easy on roofs. After months of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, your roof has been working overtime to protect your home. Now that we’re finally getting glimpses of warmer days and spring is just around the corner, it’s time to check in on your roof and make sure it’s ready for the season ahead.
At BC Exteriors, we always encourage homeowners and business owners to do a post-winter roof check-up. Catching issues now can help you avoid leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the road. So, before you start planning your spring projects, here’s what to look for when assessing your roof after a long Michigan winter.
- Missing or Damaged Shingles
Michigan winters bring heavy snow, high winds, and ice, all of which can loosen, crack, or even tear off shingles. Missing or broken shingles leave your roof exposed to moisture, which can lead to leaks and further structural damage.
What to Check:
- Look for shingles that are curling, cracked, or missing.
- Check the ground around your home for fallen shingles or shingle granules in your gutters.
What to Do Next:
If you spot damage, it’s best to have a professional inspect your roof to see if repairs or replacements are needed.
- Ice Dam Damage
Ice dams are one of the biggest culprits of winter roof damage. They form when heat escapes from your attic, melting the snow on your roof. As the melted snow refreezes at the edges, it creates a dam that blocks water from draining properly, forcing it under your shingles and into your home.
What to Check:
- Signs of water stains on your ceiling or walls.
- Peeling paint or warped wood near your roofline.
- Icicle formation along the edges of your roof (a sign of past ice dams).
What to Do Next:
If you had ice dams this winter, it’s a good idea to check your attic insulation and ventilation—these play a huge role in preventing ice dams in the future. Our team at BC Exteriors can assess your attic and recommend solutions to keep your roof protected next winter.
- Leaks & Water Stains
A leaky roof isn’t always obvious—sometimes, the damage is hidden until warmer weather arrives and snowmelt starts seeping into your home.
What to Check:
- Water stains or discoloration on your ceiling or walls.
- A musty smell or visible mold in your attic.
- Dripping or moisture around skylights, chimneys, or vents.
What to Do Next:
Don’t wait for a small leak to turn into a major issue. If you notice any signs of water damage, schedule a professional roof inspection right away.
- Clogged or Damaged Gutters
Your gutters are essential for directing water away from your home, but winter can take a toll on them. Ice buildup, fallen debris, and heavy snow can cause gutters to sag, pull away from your roof, or become clogged.
What to Check:
- Gutters that are sagging or detached from the house.
- Signs of water overflow (erosion near your foundation).
- Leaves, branches, or ice buildup in the gutters.
What to Do Next:
Clear out any debris and make sure your downspouts are directing water at least 5–10 feet away from your foundation. If your gutters are damaged, we can repair or replace them to keep your home protected from spring showers.
- Chimney & Flashing Issues
Flashing is the metal material that seals areas where your roof meets chimneys, skylights, or vents. Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause flashing to loosen or crack, leading to leaks.
What to Check:
- Gaps or rust spots in the flashing.
- Loose or missing caulking around chimneys or vents.
- Water stains near the chimney inside your home.
What to Do Next:
If flashing is damaged, water can sneak into your home. It’s best to have it repaired before spring rains make things worse.
- Weak Spots from Heavy Snow
While Michigan roofs are built to handle snow, prolonged weight from heavy accumulation can cause structural stress, especially with a winter with multiple snowstorms back-to-back like this year.
What to Check:
- Sections of your roof that appear to sag.
- Cracks in your walls or ceiling that weren’t there before winter.
- Uneven or wavy-looking rooflines.
What to Do Next:
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait—structural damage can worsen quickly. A professional inspection can determine if reinforcements or repairs are needed.
Spring Is Coming—Is Your Roof Ready?
Winter is tough on roofs, and even small issues can turn into big problems if they’re not addressed. Now is the perfect time for a post-winter roof check to ensure your home or business is ready for spring.
At BC Exteriors, we offer comprehensive roof inspections, repairs, and maintenance services to help you identify and fix any damage caused by snow and ice. Whether it’s replacing missing shingles, fixing leaks, or improving ventilation, we’ve got you covered.
Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today!
Visit our home page and submit a request or give us a call to book your spring roof check-up. Let’s make sure your roof is in top shape so you can enjoy the warmer days ahead—worry-free!