Protect Your Home: Roof Risks to Spot This Winter

Winter can be magical but it’s also the toughest season for your home’s roof. When freezing temperatures, ice and heavy snow roll in, even small weak spots can turn into major problems. According to experts, nearly four in 10 homes have roofs in fair to poor condition, meaning a lot of houses are heading into winter at risk for costly damage.

Below are seven warning signs that your roof might be vulnerable plus practical tips you can take now to prevent a winter disaster from NAR.

1. Sagging or Uneven Roof Sections

If parts of your roof dip or sag, that’s more than cosmetic. It's a signal of structural weakness. Snow can weigh up to 20lbs per square foot when wet, and a weakened roof may not hold up under the load.

2. Missing, Cracked or Curling Shingles

Shingles protect your roof like armor. When they crack, curl, or go missing, water gets easier access underneath and freezes, causing more damage.

3. Ice Dams in Gutters

Ice dams form when heat escapes from your attic, melts snow on the roof, and then refreezes at the eaves. These ice ridges block water from draining properly and force it back under shingles.

4. Interior Leaks or Water Stains

If you spot discolored patches on your ceilings or walls, it’s a sign moisture is already getting in. Water can travel far from the original entry point before showing up inside.

5. Clogged or Damaged Roof Vents

Vents help your roof breathe. When they’re blocked by debris or damaged, warm air stays trapped, ice dams form more easily, and moisture problems worsen.

6. Big Icicles or Stressed Gutters

A few icicles might look pretty, but heavy, long ones can spell trouble. They add weight and stress to gutters and indicate poor drainage and heat loss.

7. Shingle Granules in Gutters

Those tiny granules you see in gutters are from shingle wear. Too many of them means your shingles are wearing out faster than they should.

Winter weather can be brutal on roofing, but many problems show signs before damage becomes serious. By spotting trouble early and acting now, you can save thousands of dollars in emergency repairs and enjoy the snowy season with peace of mind.