By Neighborhood Roofing
neighborhoodroofing.com
Michigan winters aren’t just inconvenient—they can be brutal on your home, especially your roof. Heavy snow, ice dams, freezing rain, and repeated thaw cycles all take a serious toll. If your roof is already showing signs of wear, the upcoming winter might be more than it can handle.
At Neighborhood Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable damage becomes a costly emergency when left unchecked. Below are five critical signs your roof might not survive another Michigan winter—and what you should do before the snow starts to fall.
1. Curling or Cracked Shingles
Shingles are your roof’s armor, and once they start curling or cracking, that armor is compromised. In cold weather, these damaged shingles become brittle and are more likely to snap off or lift under high winds. If you notice granule loss, corners curling upward, or visible cracks, it’s a sign your roof is aging—and winter will only make things worse.
What to look for:
- Shingles that look warped or uneven
- Cracks visible from ground level
- Bald patches with missing granules
2. Interior Leaks or Water Stains
A small leak now could turn into a major issue during the winter. As snow accumulates and eventually melts, water can seep through compromised shingles or flashing. Ice dams—ridges of ice that block proper drainage—make this even worse by forcing water under the shingles and into your attic or walls.
What to look for:
- Brown or yellow stains on ceilings
- Damp insulation in the attic
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Musty odors after rain or snow melt
3. Sagging Rooflines or Soft Spots
A sagging roofline is more than a cosmetic issue—it could mean structural damage. When snow piles up, it adds thousands of pounds of pressure. If your roof deck or support beams are weakened, the entire structure is at risk. Soft or spongy spots when walking on the roof are another sign of trouble.
What to look for:
- Visible dips or waves in your roofline
- Areas of the roof that feel soft or give under pressure
- Cracks near exterior walls or ceiling joists
4. Granules in the Gutters
Shingle granules are the rough, sandpaper-like layer that protects your roof from UV rays and improves water runoff. When these start to wash away, your shingles age faster and lose their effectiveness—especially under the freeze-thaw cycle of winter. If you’re finding a gritty, black substance in your gutters, take it as a warning.
What to look for:
- Excess granules in gutters or downspouts
- Bald patches on shingles
- Faded or uneven shingle color
5. Your Roof is 20+ Years Old
Even if it looks okay from the ground, an older roof may be one storm away from failure. Michigan’s harsh winters can significantly shorten the lifespan of common roofing materials like asphalt shingles. If your roof is nearing or past its expected life, now’s the time to act.
What to look for:
- Your roof was last replaced more than 20 years ago
- Neighbors with similar homes are replacing their roofs
- Increased energy bills (a sign of insulation and ventilation issues)
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to reveal your roof’s weak points. If you’ve spotted any of the signs above, now is the best time to schedule an inspection. Acting early can save you from emergency repairs, interior damage, and major stress in the middle of winter.
You can even use our free online tool to get a quick, no-obligation estimate for your home:
👉 Try our Instant Roof Estimate Calculator
Why Choose Neighborhood Roofing?
When it comes to preparing your home for winter, experience matters. At Neighborhood Roofing, we’ve helped thousands of Ann Arbor homeowners get ready for the cold season with strong, reliable roofing systems built to withstand Michigan weather.
Here’s why locals trust us:
- Over 40 years of experience in Washtenaw County
- Fully licensed, insured, and locally owned
- Free inspections and clear, honest quotes
- Fast scheduling before peak season
- Workmanship and material warranties
Prevent A Home Disaster Now
Winter is coming—and your roof needs to be ready. Don’t wait until the snow starts falling to deal with the warning signs. Whether you need a few repairs or a full replacement, Neighborhood Roofing is here to help.
👉 Schedule your free inspection today or get started with our Instant Roof Estimate.
Let’s make sure your home is safe, warm, and protected all season long.
