During Michigan winters, most homeowners focus on the obvious: clearing paths, keeping cars accessible, and staying warm inside. Meanwhile, the silent protector of your home—the roof—often bears the brunt of the season’s harsh elements without a second thought. Besides the typical inconveniences of winter weather, snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures are agents of gradual damage that can lead to expensive repairs if unnoticed.
Sneaky signs your roof took a hit this Michigan winter.
We also have some advice about what you can do to protect your roof and home from the effects of cold weather.
1. Ice Dams: The Invisible Culprits of Roof Damage
You’ve probably noticed how your roof stretches out beyond the exterior walls of your house. That extended portion is called the eave of your roof. Besides giving the house a home-sy touch, the eave is incredibly important for protecting the outer wall of the house from excessive rain or melted snow that flows off the roof.
During winter months when temperatures are cold enough for water to freeze, ice dams form, leaving frozen ridges along the eaves of the roof.
Although roofs look cool with icicles hanging from them, ice dams are notoriously important to look out for. They’re often signs of uneven heat distribution inside your home. When warm air escapes through the attic, it melts the snow on your roof, only for it to refreeze at the colder edges.
Over time, these dams trap water behind them, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home. Thankfully, there are a few signs you can look out for, by looking up:
Signs of ice dam damage on your roof:
● Stains or damp spots on ceilings and walls.
● Water dripping during a thaw, even when it’s not raining.
● Icicles growing into massive clusters along your gutters.
How to prevent ice dams from damaging your roof
Since the uneven distribution of heat is the source, proper insulation and ventilation in your attic are key. The goal is to prevent warm air from escaping in order to minimize the temperature differences that cause the ice dam.
Now if you notice an ice dam on your roof, DON’T CHIP AT IT! It’s our instinct to want to chip it away with an ice pick, or hammer and chisel. But, doing so can damage the shingles, and roofing materials, or unleash a sudden flow of trapped water.
Instead, use a roof rake to remove snow from the edges or call a professional for safe removal.
2. Snow Overload: When Too Much Weight Calls for a Roof Repair
The NOAA’s winter forecast predicted a wetter winter for the 2024-2025 winter season—meaning more rain, more sleet, and more snow. Although we may be expecting a bit more precipitation than usual, rain, sleet, and snow are no strangers—meaning, our roofs are built for them.
However. Roofs have limits.
As we know, too much of anything causes problems. In this case, too much snow can stress the roof’s structure, leading to sagging, leaks, or even a collapse in extreme cases. But like we mentioned, as long as you look up, you can watch for these signs.
Signs of snow overload on your roof:
● Sagging rooflines or interior ceilings.
● Doors or windows sticking suddenly.
● Creaking or unusual sounds from above.
How to prevent roof damage because of snow overload:
We keep saying “look up” for a reason. If the snow on your roof exceeds two feet, it’s time to act and remove it. However, safety is a priority. As the ground gets hard and icy after a snowstorm, it’s best to avoid climbing ladders or climbing onto the roof. Instead, a roof rake can help you safely clear snow from the ground.
If you happen to have a steeper roof or a deeper buildup of snow, call a professional to avoid the risk of damaging shingles or injuring yourself.
3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Tiny Cracks on Your Roof’s Shingles Bring Big Problems
Michigan isn’t its own worst enemy—but the freeze-thaw cycle is. During the day when the sun is at its peak, melting snow finds its way into the cracks and gaps throughout the roof. Then when temperatures drop below freezing again after the sun has set, the water that seeped into the cracks and gaps freezes.
Over time, the repeated freeze-thaw cycle stresses the roof’s materials: shingles gradually weaken, causing them to lift, crack, or break, while flashings and seals risk becoming brittle, allowing moisture to penetrate.
These are words every homeowner watching over their roofs fear to hear. However, the effect of this freeze-thaw cycle not only compromises the roof’s integrity but also accelerates the wear and tear on the roof’s materials. Hence, it becomes more vulnerable to further damage.
So, here we are telling you to look up… again.
Signs of roof damage from freeze-thaw cycles
● Curling or cracked shingles.
● Missing shingles after a storm.
● Water spots or streaks along your walls.
How to prevent freeze-thaw damage and avoid costly roof repairs
Unless you have control over nature’s weather system, you can’t prevent freeze-thaw cycles. But, you can stay ahead of them.
As obvious as it may sound, inspecting your roof regularly during the winter does wonders. Be sure to look for loose or damaged shingles, especially after heavy storms. And of course, address small issues early to save you from costly repairs later.
We know you’re busy. For a component of your home that’s so strong and resilient, it’s so easy to let its maintenance slip your mind. However, winter weather doesn’t wait for convenience or the right time to check the roof.
Roofing Services for Winter Wear and Tear
2025 is the perfect year to get into the habit of conducting regular roof inspections, ensuring proper insulation, and initiating timely snow removal to extend your roof’s lifespan. Scheduling a professional roof inspection is a good place to start if you need further tips outside this article. They can spot hidden vulnerabilities and provide expert advice tailored to Michigan’s tough winters.
Your driveway and walkway might be clear, but don’t forget the roof above your head. While you’re at work putting bread on the table, it’s working hard to protect your home this winter.
Leave your roof to the contractors at Level Up Improvement in Dearborn. We have been addressing the impact of cold winter weather on homes throughout the Metro Detroit area for years. Our goal is to ensure a home that is secure and efficient with proper insulation, a sound roof and durable siding. Our roof installation and siding installation services are unmatched. Questions or concerns about your roof or home efficiency? Call and speak to on of our expert team members today!