Winter can be brutal on your roof. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures put a lot of stress on shingles, gutters, and even your attic. Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to check for any damage left behind by winter storms. Catching problems early can save you from costly repairs down the road. Here’s how to inspect your roof after winter and what steps to take if you find damage.

1. Take a Walk Around Your Home
Before grabbing a ladder, start with a simple walk around your home to look for visible signs of roof damage. A lot can be spotted from the ground if you know what to look for.

Pay attention to:

• Missing, cracked, or curled shingles – These could be signs of wind or ice damage.
• Dark streaks or stains – This might indicate moisture buildup.
• Loose or damaged flashing – The metal around vents, chimneys, and skylights should be intact and secure.
• Sagging areas – A dip in your roofline could suggest structural issues.

If anything looks out of place, it’s best to have a professional take a closer look before spring rains arrive.

2. Check Your Attic for Leaks
Not all roof damage is visible from the outside. Head up to your attic with a flashlight and check for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Damp or moldy insulation
• A musty smell or signs of mildew
• Sunlight peeking through cracks in the roof

Even a small leak can lead to bigger issues like mold growth and wood rot, so don’t ignore these warning signs.

3. Clear Out and Inspect Your Gutters
Your gutters play a major role in directing water away from your roof, but they can’t do their job if they’re clogged or damaged. Look for:

• Leaves, twigs, and debris left over from winter storms.
• Sagging or detached gutters that may not be draining properly.
• Icicle damage – If large icicles formed over winter, they may have pulled gutters away from your home.

Clogged or broken gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof, leading to leaks and foundation issues.

4. Watch for Ice Dam Damage
If your home had ice dams over the winter, your roof could have hidden damage. Ice dams form when attic heat causes snow to melt and refreeze at the roof’s edge, preventing proper drainage. Over time, this trapped water can seep under shingles, leading to:

• Leaks
• Mold and mildew growth
• Shingle deterioration

If ice dams were an issue this winter, it may be time to improve your attic insulation and ventilation to prevent them from happening again next year.

5. Call in a Pro for a Roof Inspection
Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, a professional inspection can catch hidden damage before it turns into a bigger problem. A roofer will:

• Check for worn or loose shingles
• Look for flashing damage around roof openings
• Assess attic ventilation and insulation
• Identify weak spots that could lead to leaks

Routine inspections can help extend the life of your roof and save you money on unexpected repairs.

Get Your Roof Ready for Spring with A&M Roofing

Winter can be tough on your roof, but with a little maintenance, you can keep it in great shape for years to come. Whether you need an inspection, repairs, or help with ice dam prevention, A&M Roofing is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your post-winter roof checkup and make sure your home stays protected.